Emaar assumes control of five-star hotel

Dubai, Aug 3, 2008 (WAM) - The Address Hotels and Resorts, the new hotel brand launched by Emaar Hospitality Group (EHG), will assume the management and operations of The Palace, The Old Town hotel in Downtown Burj Dubai. The five-star property was earlier managed by Sofitel, the hotel management brand of French Accor Group according to a report by ' Emirates Business 24|7'.

Marc Dardenne, Chief Executive Officer, Emaar Hospitality Group, said:
"Sofitel's contribution to developing The Palace, The Old Town as one of the premier hotels in Dubai has been invaluable. We thank them for their support and creating a direction of growth since October 2007. The Address Hotels and Resorts is Emaar's home-grown five-star premium hotel brand and The Palace, The Old Town is one of the prestigious hotel developments by Emaar.

By integrating the hotel under The Address umbrella, as a separate entity, we aim to achieve service and operational consistency and efficiency, while enhancing the overall value offering of the hotel group."

This follows a mutual agreement with Accor Group, following the conclusion of the management agreement. Sofitel Luxury Hotels is developing its own strategy and network in the luxury segment. To have The Address Hotels and Resorts assume the management of The Palace is a logical extension for Emaar, a view shared by both parties.

The current branding of The Palace, The Old Town will continue with The Address Hotels and Resorts managing all operational aspects. This reiterates EHG's goal of having a diverse bouquet of hotels – some featuring The Address branding and others operated by the hotels company.


The Address Hotels and Resorts will open three new hotels in Dubai: The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai; The Address, Dubai Mall; and The Address, Dubai Marina. The Palace, The Old Town is located within Downtown Burj Dubai and has 242 guest rooms and suites. –