Swiss-Belhotel expands in GCC with Oman hotel
Hong Kong-based hotel group Swiss-Belhotel International (SBI) is continuing its expansion in the GCC, by entering into a management agreement with Al Salaam International Hotel LLC to operate Swiss-Belinn Muscat in Oman.
Expected to open in 2019, the three-star hotel enjoys an outstanding location in Seeb, close to Muscat International Airport.
Nadhim Said Hamdan Al Rawahi, partner of Al Salaam International Hotel LLC, said: “We believe with its strong global network and experience, Swiss-Belhotel International will add tremendous value to this project.
‘Best facilities’
“The Swiss-Belinn Muscat is being equipped with the very best facilities in the upper three-star category and will contribute greatly to development of tourism in Oman.
“The project location is across the airport and hence our main concept is blending business, transits and pleasure. We are looking forward to extending our attractive ‘Omani’ hospitality portfolio with Swiss-Belhotel.
“Furthermore, we are looking to contribute to the social-economic development of Oman and enable to provide direct and indirect jobs to Omanis in hospitality sector.”
Gavin M. Faull, chairman and president of Swiss-Belhotel International, said: “We are thrilled to debut in Oman with a reputed partner like Al Salaam International Hotel LLC. It is an exciting time for us as we continue to strengthen our presence in the GCC.
“The scale and diversity of our brands allows us to serve any market segment or need. Swiss-Belinn Muscat will be ideal for travellers looking for a comfortable and affordable accommodation.”
Swiss-Belinn Muscat, equipped with 120 standard rooms and 10 varieties of suites, is being developed to offer its guests a comprehensive range of facilities including an all-day-dining restaurant, flexible meeting and conference venues, gym, Wi-Fi access and 24-hour room service.
Airport location
Given its close proximity to the airport, the hotel will serve as the perfect location for transit passengers looking for stop-overs and airline crews as well as corporate travellers on a short visit to Oman or those facing unexpected flight halts.
With a strategy focused on expanding in high-growth markets, Swiss-Belhotel International is rapidly growing its footprint across the Middle East.
Laurent A. Voivenel, senior vice president, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said: “We are proud to add the Swiss-Belinn Muscat to our superb portfolio of hotels in the Middle East. Oman’s tourism industry has experienced strong growth over the past few years, and this is expected to continue.
“However, the country’s hospitality sector is currently dominated by luxury 5-star or 4-star hotels leaving an enormous gap and opportunity in the midscale sector. Hence it is the perfect time for us to enter the market and position the hugely successful three-star Swiss-Belinn brand capitalising on the rising demand for high quality affordable accommodation.”
For further information visit www.swiss-belhotel.com
