THE Carlton Tower Hotel group will expand its hospitality portfolio shortly by opening new units in Dubai, said a senior official.

The company has recently invested Dh14 million ($3.8 million) in refurbishing the property which includes changing the interiors of the guest-rooms, ambience of the lobby and the opening of two new outlets to attract visitors.
Plans for the near future include investing a large amount in a suitable project. General manager Hosni A Hadi said, "We now have 200 employees to look after guests in 154 rooms. We have recently introduced an Iranian and a Greek restaurant. We have also upgraded the health club. The hotel is one of the oldest in town, and has been enjoying a higher occupancy from our loyal customers from the CIS market and corporate guests.”
Looking back, he said, Carlton Tower, which was established in 1971, was rated a first-class hotel, when classification was not in place in Dubai. “We were one of the few hotels operating then. All along, we have enjoyed strong business due to our service standards and our prime location in the middle of the busy business district facing the famous Dubai Creek. Last year, we maintained 85-percent occupancy throughout the year.”
He said the company is looking for more opportunities. “We are looking to build one or more hotels. Right now negotiations are going on to set up furnished apartments for our clients,” he added.