Saudi developer Al Hokair is expanding its home-grown Mena Hotels brand to the UAE with the opening of Mena Plaza Albarsha Dubai, said a report.

"We are delighted to debut Mena Hotels - a family-oriented, affordable lifestyle brand - into the UAE. Mena Plaza Albarsha Dubai is an exciting addition to our portfolio of hotels as we continue to expand our presence in the region, a report in Saudi Gazette cited Sami Al Hokair, CEO and co-founder of MENA Hotels, as saying.

"Our strategy is to invest in high-growth markets such as Dubai and we believe this latest property will prove to be a valuable asset for us and will generate superb financial returns for the company,” he said.

Founded in 2008 by Al Hokair Group, Mena Hotels boasts a portfolio of eight projects including five in Saudi Arabia, two in Jordan and its latest addition in the UAE, the report said.

Elaborating on the brand’s vision, Fadi Mazkour, regional director, Branding & Business Development, MENA Hotels, said, “By the end of 2018 we expect to reach 18 hotels with over 2,000 rooms. This incredible growth is supported by the massive demand for quality mid-market hotels in the region and we are ideally placed to capitalize on the opportunity.”

Mena Plaza Albarsha Dubai is located in close proximity to the Mall of the Emirates and has been conceptualised to be a distinctive and elegant address for discerning business and leisure travellers.

Featuring 90 well-appointed spacious rooms and suites, the hotel is equipped with outstanding facilities including two dining outlets, a spa and a state-of-the-art gym.