Rotana mobile app enables browsing and booking on the go

The Rotana Mobile App allows potential guests instant access to 44 operating Rotana hotels across 26 cities in the Middle East and Africa.

Guests can browse through information on available accommodation, dining, entertainment and recreation options as well as meetings and events, in addition to being able to make real time bookings.

The new app also allows potential guests the ability to 'click to call' a live customer service agent via voice or video, over WiFi or 3G, making Rotana the first hotel management in the Middle East to pilot video-enabled customer service through a mobile app.

Guests can also access a range of other convenience-boosting services such as pre-arrival arrangements, concierge services, express check-out and the ability to view bills on the go.

Easing the booking process for the end user, the Rotana App features an online booking capability that interfaces with Rotana's Central Reservation System, allowing guests the ability to easily obtain the best available rates across the 44 Mobile App-enabled Rotana hotels and resorts.

"With the new Rotana App, we've used technology to push our business boundaries, to ensure innovation and efficiency across each of our hotels and destinations, and meet the evolving needs of our guests," said Samir Abi Frem, Corporate Vice President - Information Technology.

"Smartphone users are attached to their devices and across all sectors we are noticing a huge appetite for apps that help save time, offer instant access to information and the ability to take action. From 2010 to 2011, the number of mobile retail apps increased by 350%. Moreover, 9 out of 10 mobile searches lead to action, over half of which lead to purchase," he concluded.

He added, "Offering guests the ability to make choices and instantly book available rooms at great prices is expected to not just ease the booking process for guests but also boost reservations across our network of properties. In addition, the 'click to call' option offers guests a chance to immediately discuss their needs with a knowledgeable customer service agent, allowing them to book a room or service that best meets their unique requirements."

The new app also offers guests useful destination information to enable them to better plan their trips. Guests will additionally be able to view and redeem the latest Rotana offers and promotions through Rotana's social channel rotanatimes.com.

Rotana Rewards members can also use the Rotana Mobile App to access their private account and view their profile and full details of the programme, enabling them to enjoy their rewards and book a room or a restaurant quickly and easily.

In addition to the new app's informative content, the design and interface have been developed to provide an excellent user experience, with topics well defined and categorized while effectively showcasing each hotel brand's distinctive look and feel.

The Rotana Mobile App can be downloaded for free from iTunes. The app is currently available in English and French and is compatible with iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPod touch (3rd, 4th and 5th generation) and iPad. The app is optimized for iPhone 5 and requires iOS 5.1 software or later. An Android version of the app is due to be launched by the end of the year.