Bob Kharazmi

'We have just come from the opening of our 59th hotel in Jakarta,' says Bob Kharazmi, Senior Vice President of Ritz-Carlton International, the most senior executive outside North America who was visiting Dubai last week for the Arabian Travel Market.

'We have nine hotels under construction or negotiation in Asia: two in Beijing, three more in China, Kowloon in Hong Kong, and Tokyo. Plus we are in negotiations for Bora Bora and Fiji.

'But I would be very surprised if we had more than 80 to 85 hotels in 10 to 15 years time. We just want to have the best properties in the most strategic markets.'

Mr. Kharazmi explains that the 330-room, 121-serviced-apartment, high-rise Dubai International Financial Centre Ritz-Carlton is to be the next addition to the Middle East portfolio. This landmark hotel will also have a 20,000 square foot ballroom.

'We have almost closed a deal for a second hotel in Bahrain,' he says. 'And we are adding 120 more rooms to our Jumeirah Beach property, plus more meeting rooms and completely re-doing the spa; the hotel will be almost double its present size.'

He therefore sees 'good growth in 2005-9' and notes that 'Dubai is an incredibly vibrant market; the average rate has doubled; and there is a shortage of guest room supply.'

Yet how will Ritz-Carlton ensure that the group keeps the high service standards of its 29,000 'Ladies and Gentlemen serving Ladies and Gentlemen' as the company philosophy runs?

'We are confident that our platform fits the majority of cultures around the world, as it is based on mutual respect and involving employees in the decision-making and operation of our hotels,' says Mr. Kharazmi.

'This gold standard culture fits every market. And when somebody joins Ritz-Carlton the first 10 days of training is spent on our principles, philosophy and culture.

'Food and beverage outlets are also very important to us as a connection with the local community, and appointing the right chef is vital to us.'

Elsewhere in the Middle East, Ritz-Carlton's top man is looking for an opportunity in Cairo and also Kuwait, and would also like to have a hotel in Oman. 'The Middle East is a focus for us and we are proud and privileged to be here,' he adds, only breaking off to greet the daughter of the owner of the Ritz-Carlton in Sharm El Sheikh.

Clearly the Ritz-Carlton intends to participate fully in the economic and hotel boom that is enveloping the region. But the commitment to the very highest standards and exclusivity will remain a barrier to overexpansion.