HotelsMag June 2014 | Page 63

PiPeline : Middle east the LevaNt

Syria , Jordan , Lebanon and Palestine where ’ S hot

Unrest in this region has taken its toll on the pipeline , but some brands see a brighter future . “ Jordan and Lebanon will recover , and we will be looking to have a strong presence in these markets with our three brands ,” says François Baudin , senior vice president , development , Europe , Middle East & Africa , for FRHI Hotels & Resorts . “ The Fairmont Amman , Jordan is due to open in 2015 .”
Accor also sees potential in Jordan , according to Christophe Landais , managing director in the Middle East for Accor .
“ The Gulf of Aqaba is also less affected by unrest ,” notes Guy Wilkinson , managing partner , Viability , Dubai .

what ’ S hot

Much of the development here remains focused on luxury . Hilton will open the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa in the fourth quarter of this year . Marriott has a deal inked for a JW Marriott in Aqaba . However ,
extended-stay might be the next big thing . Rotana is opening a 400-suite property in Amman later this year .

who ’ S hot

Unlike other parts of the Middle East , global chains remain the major players here . While a few local brands have made inroads , much of the development is still under well-known luxury flags with proven track records and brand awareness ( backed by huge loyalty programs ). that

North draw international

africa trav

Unrest in North Africa has permeated the hotel landscape , but that hasn ’ t scared away many brands .
“ The regional ‘ hall of fame ’ showcasing all top brands in the region remains Marrakech , which boasts the highest representation in terms of luxury hospitality brands ,” says Chiheb Ben Mahmoud , executive vice president , head of Hotels & Hospitality Group , Middle East and Africa , Jones Lang LaSalle , Dubai .
Despite unrest in Egypt , that country still had one of the largest pipelines in the MENA region for February 2014 . Libya also has a fast-growing pipeline .
Alex Kyriakidis , president and managing director , Middle East and Africa , for Marriott International , names Tunisia as a hot spot for Marriott in the next 12 months . Guy Wilkinson , managing partner , Viability , Dubai , notes resort destinations conxtinue to be stronger , even during upheaval . zieher . com
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