Coral Oriental opens in Dubai

Making the announcement were Mohammed Salemin, chairman and owner of the new Coral hotel and vice-chairman Abdallah Mohammed Salemin with Michel P.J. Noblet, Managing Director, Coral International Hotels, Resorts & Spas.

Located on Naif Road in Deira, Coral Oriental, Dubai offers modern comforts, convenience and competitive rates, with a location that is easily accessible from the city's financial, cultural and shopping districts.

Facilities include a 24-hour coffee shop, the Al Nafoora restaurant, and basement parking, and, according to Michel P.J. Noblet, the hotel will offer every amenity to fulfill the expectations and aspirations of its guests. He said: "It will be a modest, friendly, efficiently run establishment - perfect for families, tourists and businessmen on a budget."

The new opening is the first this year for Coral International, which launched in September 2003 with a target of 25 properties within its first five years of operation. "We are at the moment experiencing tremendous growth and have already signed six contracts laying the foundation for expansion and a credible business model," says Noblet.

"Coral International is currently involved some very interesting projects across the Middle East, in destinations ranging from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, through to Lebanon, Bahrain, Qatar and Oman, and our strategic aim is to develop world-class properties wherever we go."

All properties under the Coral International banner are experiencing an upsurge in business with an average occupancy rate of more than 90 per cent.

Noblet explained: "Business is booming. Coral International is heading for an exceptional year and we are determined to maintain this stability and growth. Our approach is based on our commitment to efficiency, quality and accountability."

With both business travel and tourism rising rapidly in Dubai, and setting the pace for the rest of the region, Coral International has seen a growth rate of 31 per cent in revenue, and expects to benefit from the boom in meetings and conferences as well as regional leisure travel.

"Dubai is turning into one of the world's fastest-growing commercial centers with business travel estimated to be valued at US$1.2bn last year and more than five million visitors to the emirate," said Noblet.

"Such a dynamic scenario always throws up a lot of challenges but we are prepared and equipped to face these. We believe the key will be in the delivery of exceptional levels of service to all our customers."

Commenting on the rapid growth of Coral International Hotels, Resorts & Spas, he added: "The region offers vast opportunities in terms of trade and tourism, and the fact that we have been able to fulfill our commitments to partners and clients has added to our credibility, boosting investor confidence. It is also a question of spotting the right chances at the right time."