Coral Hotels and Resorts steps into Sudan with two hotels in Khartoum and Port Sudan

Addressing an exclusive press conference in Khartoum, Mr Abu Baker Mohamed Abu Baker, representative of SKHC, said; "We are delighted to join hands with Coral Hotels & Resorts to bring their distinctive brand and signature hospitality to Sudan. Our objective is to offer an unforgettable integrated experience to travellers - be they businessmen or tourists. We are confident that Coral Hotels with their amazing experience and expertise would be able to please any segment of clientele."

Both hotels are already operational and occupy prime locations in Sudan's capital Khartoum and the strategic town of Port Sudan. Coral Khartoum features 285 rooms and offers its guest all 5-star facilities including fabulous dining outlets and leisure options. Equally well-equipped to meet the needs of global travellers is Coral Port Sudan boasting 114 rooms.

Michel Noblet, CEO, HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings, said:

"Given that Africa is a key development market for us, we are extremely pleased to have signed these management agreements and grateful to Sudanese Kuwaiti Hotels Co. Ltd. for having given us this opportunity. Sudan holds great promise for our industry. The number of tourists arriving in Sudan increased from 52,000 in 2002 to 70,100 in 2007 and the figure is on the rise. This has naturally boosted the demand for high quality hotel accommodations across the country. Both Coral Khartoum and Coral Port Sudan are superbly located and bear all the characteristics that make our brand so attractive to travellers."

Being the world's second-most populous continent, Africa is certainly among the most lucrative destinations. According to an estimate by International Tourism Organization the number of tourists worldwide is expected to reach one billion and 600 person in 2020 and the major part of this increase will go to Africa where tourism development rate reached 10% in 2006 while Asia and Pacific states scored (9.4%,), Europe(4%) and USA (2%).

Sudan has vast resources and is among the world's fastest growing oil producers - producing about 360,000 b/d. An oil-fuelled construction boom is giving its key cities an ever shinier veneer. This has resulted in increasing business opportunities and a significant growth in international and regional visitors. The recent peace process too has given a boost to the hotel industry in Sudan, by attracting people from all over the world.

In order to improve its infrastructure, Sudan is engaged in many projects aimed at renovating existing airports and developing new airports. This includes the redevelopment of Khartoum Airport, rehabilitating Malakal Airport, developing Abu Gibieha Airport in Kordofan State, and redeveloping Port Sudan Airport and Juba Airport. The government aims to make Juba Airport a major domestic and international airport. These plans go hand in hand with the country's efforts to develop tourism. The international airport at Khartoum is currently served by 16 airlines.

2010 will be a year of significant milestones and extensive growth for HMH and its four distinctive and compelling brands namely Coral Hotels & Resorts, Corp Executive Hotels, EWA Hotel Apartments and ECOS Hotels. Michel said, "We believe Coral Khartoum and Coral Port Sudan will position us for long-term growth and success in Africa. The signing of these agreements is testament to the strength and value of our brand. By working closely with our associates we ensure superior results and high return on investment."