IHG signs agreement with Seba Properties to develop InterContinental Fujairah Resort in the UAE

IHG has announced the signing of an agreement with Abu Dhabi-based Seba Properties for the development of the InterContinental Fujairah Resort, a new beachfront property in one of the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) most attractive tourist destinations.

The 291-room hotel will be the first InterContinental beach resort property to open in the UAE and will establish a benchmark for quality and luxury amongst upscale resorts across the Middle East. Part of the growing portfolio of over 150 InterContinental hotels worldwide, InterContinental Fujairah Resort will connect guests with what is special about the destination, providing them with authentic and enriching ’in the know’ experiences.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Hajar Mountains with breathtaking views across the Indian Ocean, the resort will consist of a series of low-rise Arabesque village-style buildings, giving it a sense of place that is unique to Fujairah. The property’s design will combine contemporary design elements with strong Arab influences that reflect the local heritage and culture.

The five-star property is set along Fujairah’s two-kilometre coastline, on 69,500m2 of land. The resort will offer a variety of restaurants, retail outlets, a health club and spa as well as a kids’ club.

Expected to open by the end of 2010, InterContinental Fujairah Resort will be surrounded by unspoilt natural landscapes which have made this tranquil Emirate a haven of relaxation for local, regional and, increasingly, international travellers.

Andrew Cosslett, Chief Executive for IHG, said: “Fujairah is an up-and-coming destination for both business and leisure travellers. InterContinental has been the leading hotel company in the Middle East for over 45 years and we look forward to opening what will be our first resort in the United Arab Emirates.”

“With more than 65 hotels in the region, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn, IHG has developed the reputation for delivering great guest satisfaction and excellent returns for our owners. InterContinental Fujairah Resort will be no exception when we open our doors in 2010.”

Rabih Karam, Chief Executive Officer of Seba Properties, added: “We are committed to creating uniqueness, elegance and an appropriate response to the location and we are confident that with a partner like IHG, we shall develop a world-class iconic resort.”

Fujairah’s strategic plan is to position the Emirate as a premium tourist destination. The Fujairah government has allocated over AED2.9 billion toward the development of the coastline and improving infrastructure of the Emirate.

A new 45km highway connecting Dubai and Fujairah will cut travel times between the two destinations to 30 minutes. Expected to be completed mid 2009, the highway will provide easy access to Dubai International Airport as well as the new Al Maktoum International Airport, set to partially open late 2009.