New general manager appointed at Al Sondos Suites

Benzari's career has spanned a quarter of a century in the hospitality sector, including senior positions in Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Morocco, the USA and the UAE.

Back in the UAE after an absence of 20 years, Benzari said: "Dubai has grown beyond all recognition in the last 20 years and the pace of development looks set to continue for years to come.

"With 31 new four- and five-star hotels under construction at present, or earmarked to break ground shortly, this will increase Dubai's room stock by 50 per cent. Existing properties have had to become ever more flexible on strategy as high occupancies can no longer be taken for granted.

"In addition, we have to over-deliver on product and service at a price that reflects the brand promise of the Le Meridien flag."

Fluent in Arabic, English and French, Benzari has enrolled in numerous training courses at Cornell University and other established courses such as; Motivation & Leadership, Basic Yield Management and Tactics for Profitability to name but a few.

Al Sondos Suites by Le Meridien has 106 studio, one- and two-bedrooms suites, all equipped with kitchen facilities as well as large-screen televisions, Internet access, inter-active games and 24-hour concierge and room service. It is located in the heart of the city's shopping and business district and is within minutes from Dubai International Airport.

Its sister property, the 144-suite Dar Al Sondos Hotel Apartments by Le Meridien is located in the busy Bur Dubai area of the city, providing a value-for-money alternative for executives and leisure travellers who seek accommodation in the heart of the action. The property was reflagged under the Le Meridien brand last year, following extensive refurbishment.