Rezidor strengthens its position in Oman during record year in the Middle East

With five hotels (1,243 rooms) opened so far in 2009, and three more (1,028 rooms) to follow before the year end, the firm has underlined its commitment to the Middle East region.

The record year for the firm began in Oman in March with the opening of Park Inn Muscat - the mid-market brand's debut in both Oman and the Middle East. Park Inn is a fresh and innovative upcoming mid-market hotel brand that prides itself 'on mastering the essentials' delivering a great affordable hotel experience within its class.

Following on from the great success of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Muscat that has been operated by Rezidor since 1997, the company recognized an opportunity for a Park Inn the emerging market of Oman, where most international brands that are present are aimed at the luxury traveler.

Rezidor President and CEO, Mr. Kurt Ritter was this week in Oman to visit the new hotel as well as the site of the planned Hotel Missoni Sifah. Hotel Missoni is the newest member of the Rezidor family that debuted in Edinburgh in spring 2009 - the brand is developed in cooperation with the iconic Italian fashion house Missoni; its design department is spearheaded by Rosita Missoni herself.

A new and distinctively different kind of hotel, Hotel Missoni sets itself quite unashamedly out to capture the increasingly important lifestyle sector of the hospitality market. The 250 room Hotel Missoni Sifah, a luxurious, self sufficient resort destination is located 30km from Muscat and is scheduled to open in 2012.

Speaking during his visit to Oman, Mr Ritter, President and CEO of Rezidor Hotel Group, said:

"The Sultanate of Oman is one of the Middle East's most interesting tourism destinations and a place where we see our hotel brands fitting in well. I am delighted to see the progress that has been made since my last visit and I look forward to visiting again in the future - Oman will certainly remain on our business development agenda."