ACCORHOTELS, a travel and lifestyle group with operations around the world including Malaysia, is expanding its globally-renowned luxury brand, Raffles Hotels & Resorts, to the world’s famous island in United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The group recently inked a management agreement with Dubai-based master developer Nakheel for the establishment of a Raffles resort on Palm Jumeirah.
The agreement will lead to the opening of PALM360, which will feature Raffles The Palm Dubai Hotel and Raffles Residences PALM360 in 2021.
Located on Palm Jumeirah’s 11km crescent boardwalk, PALM360 joins 16 other hotels which form part of Nakheel’s US$1.3 billion (RM5.3 billion) hospitality expansion programme that is set to deliver close to 6,000 rooms and hotel apartments across Dubai. The first two hotels, at Dragon Mart and Ibn Battuta Mall, opened last year, with the rest under construction or development.
PALM360 is the first beach side resort for Raffles in Dubai and the tallest structure on Palm Jumeirah.
At almost 260 metres high, PALM360 will offer unobstructed views of the island, the spectacular Arabian Gulf coastline and Dubai skyline.
Its centrepiece will be a 155-metre-long sky pool connecting the towers 170 metres above the ground, from where guests can enjoy stunning and uninterrupted views from a unique vantage point.
The hotel component will offer 125 rooms and suites, while the 359 branded residences — including 16 penthouses with own private infinity pool, gym and cinema — will be available for purchase.
The hotel and residential complex will also feature a host of high-end dining outlets, including two rooftop restaurants and a waterside restaurant.
AccorHotels chairman and chief executive officer Sebastien Bazin said the development of Raffles The Palm Dubai Hotel and Raffles Residences PALM360 not only cements the group’s luxury portfolio on a landmark leisure destination but also demonstrates its dedication to developing the most distinct hospitality concepts.
Nakheel chairman Ali Rashid Lootah said: “We are committed to playing a key role in realising the Dubai government’s vision by continuing to deliver unique landmark projects that reinforce the emirate’s position as a world-class destination for living, business, leisure and tourism.
“Palm Jumeirah has quickly evolved to be one of the most sought-after addresses in the world, offering the ultimate in luxury living and leisure. PALM360 will further enhance the island’s global appeal, which already attracts millions of visitors each year.”