Renaissance Hotels Debuts Newest Address in Cairo

333-room Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel Opens

CAIRO, EGYPT – Renaissance Hotels announced today the opening of the new Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel, the first Renaissance Hotel to open in Cairo. With its contemporary design and architecture, the Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel brings a sophisticated sense of lifestyle hospitality to Mirage City. Destined to become a local landmark, the hotel is conveniently located minutes away from Cairo International Airport in New Cairo, Cairo’s new strategic business and entertainment center.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Renaissance Hotels brand to Cairo,” said Magdy Naguib, general manager of the hotel. “With its sleek design and signature Renaissance Hotels programming including NAVIGATOR and RLife LIVE, we are confident the hotel will be a popular destination for guests and locals alike.”

The hotel’s spacious and comfortable guest rooms include indigenous touches of historical and cultural artwork inspired by the city. The 333 rooms and suites also offer superb views overlooking either Mirage City or the expansive swimming pool.

Renaissance Hotels helps to inspire authentic travel experiences through innovative guest programs including NAVIGATOR, the brand’s signature concierge service, and RLife LIVE, an industry-leading entertainment platform showcasing music, arts and more at Renaissance Hotels around the world.  Last year, Renaissance Hotels introduced its first ever global advertising campaign, Live Life to Discover, inspiring guests to discover something distinctly new whenever they travel for business or leisure.
 
The Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel features unique culinary experiences that fulfill every palette while establishing a new dining and entertainment bar for Mirage City. During the day guests can enjoy Citron with its elegant approach and contemporary design influenced from Arabic and Mediterranean countries. For those looking for an authentic Chinese dining experience, Chinoix restaurant offers the best of indigenous Chinese cuisine. Guests may also relax poolside at SOL Pool Bar, or gather together in the chic Vintage Bar or Flute Lobby Lounge.

With seven meeting rooms and a grand ballroom offering more than 1100 square meters of event space infused with natural daylight, the Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel is the idea location to host state-of-the art meetings or extraordinary special event. With accommodations ranging from small, intimate events to large functions, the hotel offers an array of customizable meeting sand event space. Whether it’s a small board meeting, conference, training, assessment center, cocktail party or a wedding, Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel is the impeccable place to host your event.

About Renaissance Hotels
Renaissance Hotels represents a diverse collection of 155 hotels in 35 countries worldwide. Each property is unique, offering passionate travelers a one-of-kind experience and memories they will be sure to take with them long after they depart. Within every hotel, guests are greeted by an exceptional array of amenities and an inspiring world of local discoveries. For travelers looking to experience something new, innovative and locally driven programs including the industry leading entertainment platform RLife LIVE as well R Navigator, ensure that every trip is transformed into an eye-opening, unforgettable journey.  Renaissance Hotels. Live Life To Discover.  To discover more visit www.renhotels.com.

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About Marriott International
Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

Connect with deema.termanini@marriott.com, catherine.leitner@marriott.com and yasmine.sherif@marriotthotels.com

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Courtyard by Marriott Enters Saudi Arabia with Riyadh Hotel Opening

• Celebration marks Courtyard brand’s fourth property in its Middle East portfolio
• 286-room property is set to contribute to Marriott International’s expansion within the select service segment

DUBAI, UAE – On Saturday, Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR) celebrated the opening of the Courtyard Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter with a variety of on-site celebrations.  Courtyard by Marriott, the world’s 11th largest hotel brand, already has a strong footprint in the region with properties in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait.

Abdullah bin Abdul Rahman Al-Meqbel, Mayor of Riyadh participated in the official opening celebrations which included associates, VIP customers and a number of dignitaries from the diplomatic corps stationed nearby.

The new hotel appeals to travellers looking for a prime location close to the Diplomatic Quarter. At the Arabian Travel Market in the United Arab Emirates last week, Marriott International announced that it is putting emphasis on expansion in the region through the Courtyard, Residence Inn and Marriott Executive Apartments brands.  These developments are taking place in response to customer demand and regional travel trends.

 “We’re thrilled by the continued expansion of our lodging portfolio in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and to participate in the economic development of the Diplomatic Quarter,” said Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director - Marriott International Middle East and Africa. “Tourism in the Kingdom has strong growth potential with an average increase of 6.5 per cent year-over-year projected through 2014. We’re confident that this hotel will continue to be successful because of its ability to cater for a variety of clientele and its superb location adjacent to the Diplomatic Quarter.”

Farhan Lone, General Manager of the Courtyard Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter adds, “Situated in a very  key location in Riyadh, I am delighted to welcome travelers from around the world. I look forward to hosting guests at our contemporary café that offers all day dining and showing off the state-of-the-art lobby featuring free WIFI access. We also have a modern, fully equipped fitness center with an indoor pool and whirlpool which will keep them refreshed during their stay.”

Courtyard understands business travelers, and, through extensive research, the brand continues to evolve to meet guests’ changing needs. Combining innovative technology with style and comfort, the adaptable lobby space offers options so guests can make the most of their time on the road. Intuitive services accommodate guests’ desire for choice and control and allow them to use the public space and guest rooms to meet all of their needs while on the road.

Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with more than 3,800 properties in 74 countries and territories and reported revenues of nearly $12 billion in fiscal year 2012.  The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 18 brands.

Courtyard by Marriott offers a refreshing environment that helps guests stay connected, productive and balanced. Intuitive services and design accommodate guests’ needs for choice and control. With more than 900 locations in 38 countries and territories, Courtyard hotels participate in the award-winning Marriott Rewards® frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay. For more information or reservations, call the Courtyard toll-free number at 800-321-2211, visit www.courtyard.com, become a fan at www.facebook.com/courtyard or follow Courtyard at twitter.com/courtyardhotels.

For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

Connect with saleh.farajat@marriott.com

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“Ahlan Wa Salan”

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company Catering to the Middle East Traveller Globally.

Dubai, UAE – The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company LLC this week unveiled its commitment to meeting the needs of the Middle East traveller seeking luxury and sophistication, as part of its participation at ATM 2013.

The hotel company, which was built on the concept of Gold Standards, believes that each of its 82 hotels should be culturally relevant to the market in which they operate. This approach is particularly important in the GCC where inter-market travel is commonplace for business and leisure and has been the key to Ritz-Carlton’s success in the region since it launched its first hotel in Dubai in 1998.
 
However, with the expanding global footprint of regional carriers such as Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways, the choice of gateway locations for the Middle East traveller has increased significantly in recent years. As a result, and with prestigious properties in some of the world’s most desirable destinations, Ritz-Carlton hotels are welcoming an increasing number of guests from the Middle East.

With over a third of Arab nationals known to make between one and five business trips outside the region every year, and the same number again of personal trips, the Middle East continues to be one of the most important source markets for the global luxury travel and hotel industry.

Arab families frequently travel in large groups with immediate and extended families, meaning that there is an increasing need for hotels – especially those within the luxury space – to offer facilities and services which reflect the needs of the whole family. Never is this truer than during the Middle East’s hot summer months, when affluent Arab travellers take, on average, 40 days vacation and are drawn to hotels which go above and beyond what is necessary.

“With the expectation that rightly comes with being one of the world’s most prestigious brands, our priority is ensuring that our guests receive a unique experience every time they stay with The Ritz-Carlton. The Arab traveller has very specific needs and we believe that offering a bespoke service with their tradition and culture is the way forward,” said Chris Gabaldon, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.

“It is about more than the beautiful aesthetics of the suites, foyer, pool and spa, it is what stays in our guests’ hearts long after they leave and what motivates them to return time and time again. Ultimately, the personal experience that we create for each and every guest is what sets us apart and this comes down to anticipating their needs.”

To ensure that guests from the Middle East get the full Ritz-Carlton experience, preferred suites at selected hotels around the world offer exceptional accommodation and personal amenities which specifically cater to their needs.

The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul is a particular favourite with Middle East travelers with the hotel’s prime Bosphorus location, combined with the city’s rich history, culture and traditions offering an experience that has an enduring appeal for Arab travelers. Amenities at this exceptional hotel include, but are not limited to, the following with advance request:
 
• Arabic language television channels and newspaper options
• Koran and prayer carpet
• Qiblah directional arrow placed in-suite
• Ascription/prayer beads
• Ramadan Suhour service
• Welcome and turndown amenities featuring preferred floral and fragrance
• Shisha served with an array of fruit flavours

Another increasingly popular destination for global affluent traveler is North America and particularly the East Coast where cities such as the business, medical and shopping metropolis of Dallas, Texas, have benefitted from the expansion of air services to key cities from the region. Recently ranked the #1 hotel in North America by the influential Zagat Survey, The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas is well equipped to maximize the comfort and needs of affluent travellers by also offering the above amenities.

Perennial favourite New York has also seen an influx of visitors from the Gulf region. The Ritz-Carlton New York, Battery Park has responded to the needs of its guests by not only introducing the above amenities, but also offering Arabic speaking front-of-house staff, schedule for prayer time and the ability to block book accommodations to cater for large groups travelling together.

The Ritz-Carlton’s exclusive Club Lounge is also available to guests booked into many of the hotel’s preferred suites and provides ongoing food and beverage presentations throughout each day, with the ability to serve select Arabic dishes upon advance request.

To find out more about how an individual Ritz-Carlton hotel can cater to specific travel needs, www.ritzcarlton.com or contact the hotel directly.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 81 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company website at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR)

Connect with sarah.walkerkerr@ritzcarlton.com

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The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. Announces New Resort in Marrakech, Morocco

Fourth Property in North Africa for Luxury Hotel Operator.

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., the leader in luxury hospitality, has announced the brand’s latest property in its growing North Africa portfolio.  The Ritz-Carlton Marrakech is owned by Jnan Amar Company, a subsidiary of Al Amal Investment Company (SIAMA) part of Azmi Abdelhadi Group of Saudi Arabia.

The resort will be developed around the Jenan Amar Polo Fields, which is part of an upscale community on the Takerkoust Road, 20 kilometres from the city centre of Marrakech and 12 kilometres from the Lalla Takerkoust lake and nature reserve. The stunning fortress style resort will feature 60 hotel suites and 20 hotel villas of two, three and five bedrooms, bars and restaurants, a luxury spa and related leisure facilities. Jenan Amar Polo Resort development is envisaged as a powerful growth driver for tourism in the Marrakech region of Morocco, and the varied luxury components of the project coupled with its world-class polo fields will create a new lifestyle dynamic to the region.

Godwin Austen Johnson is the lead architect and interior designer, with the project already at the detailed design stage.  The master development of the community has been completed including the roads, and the main polo field. Construction of the property is due to commence in the fourth quarter of 2013, with completion of the hotel projected for the third quarter of 2016.

“We are honored to have been selected by Jenan Amar, SARL to manage this unique property,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “We believe that the unique location of the resort, with stunning views on the High Atlas Mountains, within such an upscale community of Marrakech, coupled with the diverse culture and rich heritage of the wonderful city itself, will offer our discerning guests an incredibly attractive and aspirational destination to explore.”

Miramar Abdelhadi, Chief Executive Officer of the Jenan Amar SARL, said“We are delighted to partner with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company to manage the resort.  The long and storied legacy of The Ritz-Carlton is a natural fit with Morocco’s own historical heritage, and the prestige of the brand is akin to the exclusivity of the community in which the resort will be located.”

Asked about additional growth in the North African region for The Ritz-Carlton, Humler added, “The Ritz-Carlton, Marrakech will be our fourth property in North Africa, each one offering a different proposition, indigenous to the style and location of the hotel or resort.  Expansion in this region is unquestionably an essential part of our future growth strategy.”

Further properties currently under construction in North Africa are The Ritz-Carlton, Rabat, a 120-room hotel situated within the prestigious Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, The Ritz-Carlton, Tunis, a resort featuring 129-suites, situated close to the world heritage site of Carthage and Tamouda Bay, and Morocco a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Morocco a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Tamuda Bay, an exclusive upscale resort nestled along the unspoiled waters of the Mediterranean, approximately 60 kilometers east of the city of Tangiers, featuring a 98-luxury room hotel with 35 pool villa suites, a beach club and an 18-hole Nicklaus design golf course.

About the SIAMA
SIAMA has been operating in Morocco since 1985 and has achieved numerous developments. Azmi Abdelhadi Group's main business in Saudi Arabia is in oil & gas engineering services, in addition, owns a portfolio of diversified interests in trading, contracting, manufacturing and insurance companies.

About the Ritz-Carlton
 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 82 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company website at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR)

Connect with sarah.walkerkerr@ritzcarlton.com

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The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. Unveils Plans for New Urban Resort in Rabat, Morocco

The First Property for The Leader in Luxury Hospitality in The Kingdom’s Capital.

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., the leader in luxury hospitality, has unveiled plans to open its first property in Rabat, the prestigious capital city of the Kingdom of Morocco, bringing the number of hotels currently under development in the brand’s growing North Africa portfolio to three.

The owner of the urban resort is Sienna Investment Group, an investment vehicle established in Morocco.  The architectural and design team of the luxury property consists of Scape Design Associates as the Landscape Designers, and Architects, WATG. Construction is underway, and The Ritz-Carlton expects the resort to open in December 2014.

The urban resort will be situated approximately 10 minutes’ drive from the city center, within the grounds of the most highly esteemed golf course in the Kingdom, The Royal Golf of Dar Es Salam, designed by Robert Trent Jones over 40 years ago.  The golf estate which comprises three courses, frequented by Rabat and Morocco’s high society, is set within a stunning 440 hectare oak forest, surrounded by an array of flora and breathtaking lakes, and will provide the scenic backdrop to The Ritz-Carlton, Rabat, located near the 10th tee of the main course.

Herve Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company said; “We are delighted to have been chosen by Sienna Investment Group to manage such a unique property, in such a prestigious city in Morocco and North Africa.  The heritage of Rabat, combined with the unique location within a world-class golf estate, will provide an incredibly appealing proposition for the affluent global traveler.”  

The city of Rabat is the seat of the Moroccan government and home to the majority of its government agencies, providing the capital with a prominent status. 

Sienna Investment Group, the owner, noted the importance of selecting the right management company; “We selected The Ritz-Carlton to manage this property as it was essential to select a brand with the same caliber of prestige as the city of Rabat itself, and one that is in keeping with the grandeur of The Royal Golf of Dar Es Salam.”

The resort will benefit from 120 guest rooms, 15 one-bedroom and five, two-bedroom villas, expected to appeal to dignitaries and government delegations from around the world.

Further properties currently under construction in North Africa include The Ritz-Carlton, Tunis, Carthage, a resort featuring 129-suites, situated close to the world heritage site of Carthage and Morocco a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Tamuda Bay, an exclusive upscale resort nestled along the unspoiled waters of the Mediterranean, approximately 60 kilometers east of the city of Tangiers, featuring a 98-luxury room hotel with 35 pool villa suites, a beach club and an 18-hole Nicklaus design golf course.

About the Ritz-Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 82 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company website at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR)

Connect with sarah.walkerkerr@ritzcarlton.com

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The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company Sets the Digital Bar for Social Media Engagement at Arabian Travel Market 2013

CSMO bringing social media team members to drive awareness of the brand’s social presence.

Dubai, UAE – The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC is leading the way in consumer engagement in the digital sphere at this year’s ATM, with a fully-integrated social media campaign that will offer visitors a unique interactive experience. The move is in line with The Ritz-Carlton commitment to deepen connections with existing and prospective guests in an environment in which they spend increasing amounts of time.

As part of the luxury hotel company’s social media outreach during the Middle East’s largest travel trade show, The Ritz-Carlton has members of their social media engagement team present on their stand at ATM.  Through the @RitzCarlton twitter handle, the team will provide live content and updates from the event. With a sizeable number of The Ritz-Carlton Twitter followers comprising of trade partners, customers and the media, it is a perfect platform to initiate and build brand conversation relevant to the fair.
 
The introduction of a dedicated ‘Tweet Bar’ on The Ritz-Carlton stand HC5240 located in the Arena Hall, will give the brand’s global Twitter following access to news from the event as it unfolds in Dubai, including highlights from exclusive talks and seminars. In addition, visitors checking in at ATM on Foursquare will receive tips on the best things to see and do in Dubai, as recommended by The Ritz-Carlton concierges from both hotels in the city. The Ritz-Carlton also uses Foursquare and The Ritz-Carlton Mobile App to tailor local content and provide engaging information relevant to their guests. This will be brought to life at ATM where a series of QR codes can be used to download property insights, including recipes from chefs and guided tours of hotels.

“Our social media interactions at Arabian Travel Market are a natural extension of our ‘Let Us Stay With You’ brand philosophy. We want to enrich the experience at the show for visitors, in addition to being a great luxury travel information resource for our Twitter followers by providing news as it is happening from the show,” said Chris Gabaldon, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “Each of The Ritz-Carlton social media channels grow in importance to us year-over-year as our guests live more and more of their lives in the digital space. Use of Facebook alone already stands at 40% of time spent online in the UAE, 30% in Kuwait and 21% in Saudi Arabia making Facebook an increasingly important channel for us to converse with our Middle East guests.”

The Ritz-Carlton has a proven track record of using social networking platforms to build and enhance the brand and bring people together in the same physical space or event. It successfully used Twitter to underscore its central role at global events such as Toronto International Film Festival and IMEX America, whilst broadcasting and conversing about the brand’s messages on a large scale and also drawing foot traffic to physical spaces by engaging with other attendees.

The effectiveness of The Ritz-Carlton social media direction and content has led to significant year-on-year increases across all leading platforms, including Facebook which has jumped 118 percent to more than one million fans across  the company’s brand page and 48 hotel Facebook pages. In addition, the brand Facebook Page’s year-over-year growth in “People Talking About This” went up 746%.

“The Ritz-Carlton philosophy is built around the concept of providing unique experiences for our guests that will leave indelible memories they take away from every visit to one of our hotels.  With the continued growth and influence of social media – on both a local and global scale – we are seeing this amplified online more than ever before,” continued Gabaldon.

“It is therefore essential for us to remain relevant to the consumer and be strategic and sensitive about the ways in which we engage in the space. The Ritz-Carlton brand carries expectations of excellence, and I can proudly say that while each of our social channels perform in different ways, they all convey a truth and authenticity that can only be conveyed by us. We reap great benefit from being a part of the online conversation and learn much by paying attention to guest feedback. The next part of our continued strategy focuses on developing additional global social media assets and online engagement channels to reach a broader audience of geographies and demographics, incorporate more video, and play host to user generated content for our guests who wish to share their Ritz-Carlton experiences in the digital space.”

To follow news from The Ritz-Carlton stand during Arabian Travel Market, follow the tweets from @RitzCarlton or the hashtag #ATMDubai.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 82 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company website at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR)

Connect with sarah.walkerkerr@ritzcarlton.com

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The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal Now Open

Legendary Ritz-Carlton Service Arrives in Emirates Capital.

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – After much anticipation, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal has opened its doors today. The 532-room luxury resort is the first Ritz-Carlton in Abu Dhabi and the ninth property in the Middle East for the luxury hotel operator.

Inspired by 15th to early 17th century Renaissance architecture and the urban planning of the city of Venice, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is located at the waterfront and consists of ten stately buildings arranged in a crescent formation. Overlooking the 1,600 square meter pool, the backdrop of the hotel is the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The property features 447 luxurious guestrooms and suites, in addition to 85 private one- and two-bedroom villas. 

“We are delighted to open our  first hotel in the United Arab Emirates capital of Abu Dhabi, a city we have waited to be in until finding absolutely the right location,” stated Herve Humler President and Chief Operations Officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.  “Warm Arabian hospitality combined with legendary Ritz-Carlton service will create many unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for visitors from around the world.”

Abu Dhabi, the largest of UAE’s seven emirates, was a fishing village known regionally for its pearl trade just 50 years ago.  Today, luxury and style are infused with traditional values of hospitality and culture, and make this dynamic city a draw for over 2 million visitors annually.  Made up of 200 small islands, Abu Dhabi’s stunning beaches, expansive desert and lush oases provide a venue for exhilarating adventure or tranquil retreat while the old souks and majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – recently named one of the world’s top visitor attractions – offer an intimate look into Arabian culture.

Beautifully manicured lawns, unique water features, and private beaches over an expansive 57-acres give an immediate sense of well-being to guests upon arrivel at the Venetian-designed Ritz-Carlton. Leisure and business travellers alike will enjoy the refined elegance of the 85 one- and two-bedroom villas complete with spacious outdoor terraces, separate arrival palazzo and private butler service.  The Ritz-Carlton Club Level provides a dedicated concierge, private check-in, plus five food and beverage offerings throughout the day within an exclusive lounge boasting panoramic views of the property, canal and city skyline,

The 1,550 square meter Roma Ballroom is the epitome of elegance on a grand scale.  Able to accommodate up to 900 guests and divisable by three, the ballroom also provides an exclusive elevator directly from the private Bridal Suite into the venue.  Two expansive marble foyers with natural daylight, 14 additional meeting rooms, and a traditional majlis (literally meaning “a place of sitting” in Arabic) ensure The Ritz-Carlton is the perfect venue for all special celebrations and events. 

Renowned Ritz-Carlton chefs will please every palate in any of the ten hotel restaurants and bars including three signature restaurants created by award-winning Japanese designer Super Potato. Li Jiang, meaning “beautiful river” in Chinese, is a modern Southeast Asian restaurant with an open kitchen specializing in noodles and dim sum; Mijana, a contemporary Arabic restaurant, showcases the very best in traditional Lebanese and regional cooking; while The Forge, a signature steak house, serves specialty cuisine in a stylish setting paired with the world’s finest wines.  The all-day dining restaurant, Giornotte (blending the Italian words for “day” and “night”), has an indoor seating capacity of 358 and serves light Mediterranean fare.  Dolce, an Italian gelato and coffee café; Alba, the lobby lounge serving Afternoon Tea; Sorso, a traditional Ritz-Carlton lobby bar; Al Fresco, the pool restaurant; plus two pool bars round out the remaining food and beverage offerings at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal.

A 1,600 square meter outdoor pool, one of the largest in UAE; a fully-equipped health club; and the Ritz Kids Club are just a few of the other leisure facilities available for guests to enjoy. 

Reservations are currently being accepted at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal. Please call toll-free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or click www.ritzcarlton.com/AbuDhabi for reservations or further information.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 82 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company website at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR)

Connect with allison.sitch@ritzcarlton.com

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JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts Debuts Campaign to Empower Women of the World

Luxury Hotel Brand Partners with Vital Voices at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Celebration.

Dubai, UAE – February 28, 2013 – Women business leaders from the Middle East and Gulf States gathered today at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai to discuss “Women as Dynamic Forces of Change,” as part of a three-day celebration honoring the iconic new hotel. Created as a forum to empower women, the luncheon and panel discussion sparked the beginning of a longer-term strategic brand partnership between JW Marriott and Vital Voices, a global non-profit that trains and mentors women to enhance their leadership and economic opportunity. The Dubai Business Women Council, the leading organization of women entrepreneurs in Dubai, also partnered on this women’s forum, the first of many sponsored by the JW Marriott brand around the world.

The panel discussion was led by Kathleen Matthews, Corporate Officer and EVP, Global Communications and Public Affairs, Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR); Vital Voices President & CEO Alyse Nelson; Dubai Business Women Council President Raja Easa Al Gurg; Conde Nast Traveler Vice President & Publisher Carolyn Kremins; JW Marriott Vice President & Global Brand Manager Mitzi Gaskins; and international design icon and Urban Zen founder Donna Karan who has signature stores in the Dubai Mall.   Her Urban Zen Foundation and retail brand focuses on Donna's philosophy of Conscious Consumerism to not only dress, but also address wellness, preserve culture and empower women.

Held in the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai’s world-class Tong Thai restaurant, the women leaders shared personal experiences on managing a team, mentoring other women, building a brand, and advice on overcoming challenges in the workplace. The group also broke into more intimate, table-top discussions over lunch to examine these and other issues facing women today.  Table topics included “Know Who You Are: Building Your Personal and Professional Brand,” “Career, Community and Personal Well-Being,” and “Paying it Forward: Encouraging Others to Lead.”  Luncheon attendees included women from the Dubai Business Women's Council, senior Marriott women executives from the Dubai market and media.

"The JW Marriott brand has a very loyal following of successful women business leaders who appreciate our focus on luxury, well-being and local culture," said JW Marriott Vice President & Global Brand Manager Mitzi Gaskins. "We believe partnering with Vital Voices will continue to inspire our female guests, who are looking for networking opportunities and advice on how to mentor, hire and support women entrepreneurs in their own region."

“Vital Voices invests in women business leaders because we recognize the connection between women’s leadership and sustained economic growth,” said Vital Voices CEO Alyse Nelson. “We commend JW Marriott for demonstrating a long-term commitment to increasing women’s economic opportunities, and are proud to partner at this critical time of economic recovery and resurgence to provide comprehensive support that enhances women’s decision-making power and effectiveness, and enables women to grow their businesses and ultimately increase their positive impact on societies around the world.” 

As part of its commitment to supporting women’s leadership in the economy, JW Marriott will continue to source products for its hotels from women-owned businesses, including those affiliated with WeConnect, which was also represented at the luncheon by IBM executive Cathy Rogers.  Currently, JW Marriott supports female entrepreneurs at many of its properties around the world.  For example, four of the five spa amenity lines carried by Saray Spa at the Emirates Group-owned JW Marriott Marquis Dubai were founded by visionary women with a passion for natural, healthy, and results-driven skincare. They include local Dubai Dr. Lamis Hadmanom, creator of the Shiffa line, and Geraldine Howard, founder of Aromatherapy Associates, a JW Marriott brand signature partner.  Other JW Marriott brand partners include Keri Glassman, the renowned nutritionist and author and Christie’s Auction House.

In 2012, Marriott International spent $257 million with more than 5,000 women-owned businesses in North America alone, while the JW Marriott brand spent nearly $15 million with over 950 Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) in the United States.  Across its portfolio, Marriott International purchases 10 percent of its products from women-owned businesses, including everything from chefs’ hats to quality meats in China. The company is also active in the WeConnect worldwide network, which supports the development and certification of small and medium enterprises owned by women. Marriott has also been honored by WBENC, the Women's Business Enterprise National Council, for its commitment to supplier diversity.

About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio and consists of beautiful properties in gateway cities and distinctive resort locations around the world. These elegant hotels cater to today’s sophisticated, self-assured travelers, offering them the quiet luxury they seek in a warmly authentic, relaxed atmosphere lacking in pretense. JW Marriott properties artfully provide highly crafted, anticipatory experiences that are reflective of their locale so that their guests have the time to focus on what is most important to them. Currently, there are 59 JW Marriott hotels in 23 countries; by 2015 the portfolio is expected to encompass 79 properties in 28 countries. Visit us online www.jwmarriott.com, @jwmarriott and www.facebook.com/JWMarriott

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

About Vital Voices Global Partnership
Vital Voices Global Partnership is a leading non-governmental organization that identifies, invests in and brings visibility to extraordinary women around the world by unleashing their leadership potential to transform lives and accelerate peace and prosperity in their communities. Founded by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in 1997, the organization trains and mentors women leaders as agents of transformative change in economic development, human rights and political participation. The Vital Voices Global Leadership Network includes more than 12,000 leaders representing 144 countries who have trained and mentored 500,000 additional women and girls in their communities. Visit www.vitalvoices.org to learn more.

About Dubai Business Women Council
Founded in 2002, DBWC motivates women to be productive members of the society, while encouraging role models to rise up from the ranks and inspire other women around the world, especially in the Arab region, to discover their true potential. DBWC organizes the high-profile monthly event “The Network Majlis” to provide information about the latest knowledge, skills and best practices for women entrepreneurs and leaders. Visit our new website: www.dbwc.ae.

Connect with Jessica.Kumins@marriott.com  and MargauxBergen@vitalvoices.org

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Opening Night at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Spotlights "World's Tallest Hotel"

Star-Studded Evening Features Performance by Leona Lewis

Dubai, UAE, February 28, 2013 – Last night, the JW Marriott luxury brand celebrated [video below] the newly opened landmark hotel in the Middle East and second Marquis worldwide – the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai.  Featuring an exclusive performance by British singer / songwriter and recording star, Leona Lewis,  the “World’s Tallest Hotel” hosted  more than 1,200 VIP guests, including international design icon Donna Karan, local singing sensation Salha and the Million Dollar Band, and Dubai television personality DJ Bliss.   Party guests were greeted by fire dancers and stilt walkers and escorted into the hotel on a stunning signature JW Marriott black carpet.  Celebrities, local dignitaries and business leaders dined on international fare from six of the hotel’s signature restaurants – Rang Mahal by Atul Kochhar, Izakaya, Tong Thai, Prime 68 La Farina and the Arabic Restaurant– while enjoying premium beverages from Dubai’s newest night spot, Vault. [Pictured L to R: Mitzi Gaskins, VP & Global Brand Manager, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts; Arne Sorenson, President & CEO, Marriott International; Donna Karan, designer & founder of Urban Zen; Kathleen Matthews, Corporate Officer & EVP, Global Communications and Public Affairs, Marriott International]

Virgin Radio’s Simon Heng and television presenter Diala Makki were the emcee’s during the evening, guiding guests through a series of live performances by some of the world’s most exciting artists. In just five minutes, world-renowned live artist Jean Pierre Blanchard astonished guests by transforming a blank canvas into a stunning image of surprise headline act Leona Lewis. Guests were then treated to an electrifying live performance of Lewis’ hit song Bleeding Love as well as tracks from her new album, Glassheart.    

Other entertainment highlights included two performances by classical pop sensation, 2CELLOS. Young Croatian cellists Luka Sulic and Stjepan Hauser achieved international fame when a YouTube clip of their unique cello version of Michael Jackson’s Smooth Criminal took the world by storm.  Their viral success led to a record deal with Sony Masterworks and an invitation to join Elton John on his worldwide tour.  2CELLOS wowed party guests with their eclectic mix of classical, pop and rock. [Pictured L to R: Donna Karan; Kathleen Matthews; Arne Sorenson; Carolyn Kremins, VP & Publisher, Conde Nast Traveler; Dorinda Elliott, Global Affairs Editor, Conde Nast Traveler]

About JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

For more information about the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai or to make a reservation, visit www.marriott.com, or contact the hotel directly on +9714 414 0000, via email at jwmarquis.dubai@marriott.com or online at www.jwmarriottmarquisdubai.com.  Media can also visit www.jwmarriottmarquisdubaimedia.com.

About JW Marriott

JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio and consists of beautiful properties in gateway cities and distinctive resort locations around the world. These elegant hotels cater to today’s sophisticated, self-assured travelers, offering them the quiet luxury they seek in a warmly authentic, relaxed atmosphere lacking in pretense. JW Marriott properties artfully provide highly crafted, anticipatory experiences that are reflective of their locale so that their guests have the time to focus on what is most important to them. Currently, there are 59 JW Marriott hotels in 23 countries; by 2015 the portfolio is expected to encompass 79 properties in 28 countries. Visit us online, www.jwmarriott.com, @jwmarriott and www.facebook.com/JWMarriott

Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with more than 3,800 properties in 74 countries and territories and reported revenues of nearly $12 billion in fiscal year 2012.  The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 18 brands. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

Connect with Jessica.Kumins@marriott.com or Deema.Termanini@marriott.com

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Marriott International Celebrates Grand Opening of its First Residence Inn in the Middle East

Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR) expands its reach in the Middle East as it marks the grand opening of  Residence Inn by Marriott Manama Juffair, Marriott’s largest extended stay brand within the Marriott International portfolio.

Residence Inn by Marriott Manama Juffair in Bahrain is the first Residence Inn property in the Middle East.  It is an 80-unit property located in suburban Manama, and is owned by International Trading and Investment Co.  Marriott International has two other properties that are currently under construction in the region: an 83-unit Residence Inn by Marriott Jizan in Saudi Arabia and a 143-unit Residence Inn by Marriott Kuwait, scheduled to open in 2013 and 2015 respectively.

Commenting on the opening, Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director of Marriott International Middle East and Africa said, “Marriott International opened its first hotel in the Middle East and Africa 32 years ago and we have continued to invest in the region and build on its rich heritage to become one of the biggest hotel operators. Today we have 41 existing properties in 12 countries across seven lodging brands and a further 44 hotels under development which will more than double the number of hotels in the Middle East and Africa over the next five years. These figures are a measure of our commitment to the growth and development of the region’s tourism sector and its position as a leading global business hub.”

The Residence Inn by Marriott offers a mix of spacious, stylish and residential-feel studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom suites. A purposeful layout with designated zones allows guests to relax, work, eat, and sleep in their suites, while maintaining their routines at their own pace while traveling. Every suite features kitchens that come complete with full-sized refrigerators and stainless steel appliances that make living on the road easier for business travellers on long stays and families on leisure travel.

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

Connect with deema.termanini@marriott.com

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