Hilton expands its Saudi presence with proposed launch of Jeddah Palace

"We are pleased to announce our 2004 plans for Saudi Arabia, which has firmly illustrated its commitment to expanding its tourism base by encouraging local, regional, and international travellers to experience the Arabian traditions and unparalleled hospitality at its best," said Rudi Jagersbacher, Vice President Operations - Arabian Peninsula, Hilton International.

Hilton International currently employs just under 400 Saudi Nationals, which represents a significant and growing proportion of the company's total work force in the Kingdom. Hilton has also taken on 67 Saudi national trainees from a variety of educational centres and institutions during 2003.

Commenting on Hilton's Saudisation plans, Mr. Jagersbacher said: "We are firmly committed to expanding and developing the number of Saudi nationals employed within our hotels in the Kingdom. Our key priority is to ensure that each Saudi team member has a career development plan to further his or her growth in the company. Hilton has promoted 20 Saudi nationals to managerial positions in 2003."

Further development and training programmes in place at Hilton International include the 'Elevator Programme', which is a fast track 'General Manager' programme designed for high potential team members and involves intensive training and development. The Elevator Programme prepares and guides candidates to achieve general managerial positions within five to ten years.

These development and training programmes represent Hilton International's strong commitment to the region as the company continues to drive their expansion plans across the Gulf. Through these initiatives, Hilton International aims to offer better services to customers and more commitment to employees. Jagersbacher added: "With dedicated development and training programmes we can ensure a more innovative approach to human resource development. We are fully committed to simplifying procedures and taking training and expansion to the next level."

The Jeddah Palace, scheduled to open towards the end of this year, is the first and only 7-Star luxurious property of its kind in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With 12 Royal Suites, 8 Executive Suites, 16 Executive rooms, as well as unique facilities and privacy, the innovative property caters for high level dignitaries and VIPs. The Jeddah Palace will also feature four private meeting or dining rooms together with a luxurious spa on the rooftop.

The Jeddah Palace will present the city's exclusive diners with the renowned BICE Italian restaurant in a "Versace style" setting as well as the famous Moroccan restaurant Mamounia, which will offer the best of Moroccan specialties and delicacies. "The opening of the extraordinary Jeddah Palace is a testimony of our commitment to expand our service offerings in the Kingdom, where we anticipate being able to grow business even further," Jagersbacher added.