HILTON Worldwide has signed an agreement to convert the Dubai hotel property, The Royal Ascot, into a new DoubleTree by Hilton hotel, the second DoubleTree branded property planned for the city and the third for the UAE.
Following a rebranding to DoubleTree by Hilton Bur Dubai in January 2013, the 174-room property will undergo a comprehensive two-year refurbishment and upgrading programme with an expected completion date of January 2015.
Rudi Jagersbacher, area president, Hilton Worldwide, Middle East & Africa, said: “I’m delighted that this announcement brings us closer to our goal of establishing five of the company’s brands into the UAE local market within the next two years. Dubai’s continued status as a main regional economic hub for the Middle East gives us confidence to launch new brands in the city and provide more options for the growing number of visitors.”
Located within the city’s lively and historic area of Bur Dubai, the DoubleTree by Hilton Bur Dubai should prove to be a major attraction for both leisure and commercial travellers.
Rob Palleschi, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton said: “DoubleTree by Hilton Bur Dubai is an inspiring addition to our growing UAE hotel collection and will perfectly complement our DoubleTree property in Ras Al Khaimah as well as DoubleTree by Hilton Al Barsha Hotel & Residence which is due to open at the end of this year. The brand is growing a strong portfolio of fine Middle East hotels with a reputation for providing upscale, quality amenities and services together with a truly rewarding guest experience.”
DoubleTree by Hilton Bur Dubai will boast a number of new quality business and leisure facilities including a conference hall, four meeting rooms, a business centre as well as a swimming pool plus health club and spa. Hilton Worldwide currently operates 56 properties in Middle East and Africa, totalling more than 16,500 rooms across 19 countries with a signed development pipeline of an additional 40 properties across Middle East & Africa.