YEAR 2003
How the chain performed in the Middle East: Hilton Hotels in the Arabian Peninsula has performed very well and achieved significant growth on 2002 figures, says Rudi Jagerbacher, Vice-president, Hilton International. To date, we have exceeded revenue and occupancy projections for this year.
Strategy adopted to face up to the downturn in global economy: Hilton has remained ahead of the competition by adopting quick and sustained sales and marketing activities. Additionally, Hilton has maintained very competitive rates in order to stimulate the market growth.
Did things go according to plan? Despite the Iraq War, Hilton properties did exceptionally well in 2003. Year on year Hilton revenue projections are ahead and the leisure segment has shown an overall increase that exceeds our projections.
YEAR 2004
Expansion plans: As business and leisure travel becomes an increasingly integral part of everyday life, our priority is to grow by expanding our portfolio of properties and offering our customers the widest choice of value for money and accommodation, in the destination of their choice. There are three to four projects in the pipeline - two in Kuwait, one in Dubai and one in Qatar.
Is Hilton bullish about 2004 and, if yes, why? We are extremely optimistic about the next 12 months and believe 2004 has the potential to be an excellent year provided there are no security issues.
What guests can look forward to: We will continue to honour our commitment of adding value and improving services in the local market.
Hilton has many exciting launches in 2004 including the opening of the Jeddah Palace, the expansion of the Fujairah resort, the opening of the Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Golf resort, the introduction of new restaurant concepts and the rollout of wireless internet at all properties in the Arabian Peninsula.