Doha-based Aiana Hotels & Resorts has announced plans to open a new property in the holy city of Makkah this year.

Scheduled to open in the third quarter of the year, the 611-room hotel will be the first Aiana property in the Middle East region.

Sheikh Turki bin Faisal Al Thani, chairman of Al Sawari Holding, said: “With seven properties launched across the Indian sub-continent and the Middle East within a short span of less than a year, our vision is fast taking shape. I am confident that with launch of our hotels in Makkah in 2016, guests from around the world will be delighted to experience our unique ‘Hospitality 2.0’ promise that is aimed at offering innovative service in a smart, stimulating environment.”

“Today we celebrate a defining moment in the Aiana brand journey. The announcement of Aiana Makkah is a key milestone for the brand and it is an honour to bring the Aiana experience to the holy city. We are looking forward to opening the first Aiana hotel in the Middle East in 2016,” said Amruda Nair, joint managing director and chief executive officer, Aiana Hotels & Resorts.

Aiana Makkah will be group’s first hotel in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, strategically located near the City Centre and with direct connectivity to the Masjid Al Haram.

Designed specifically to provide comfort by anticipating the needs of families and groups that visit Makkah for holy pilgrimage, Aiana Makkah will provide adequate car parking space, clean well-appointed rooms, efficient and friendly service and all day dining that will feature signature dishes from the Middle East, Indian sub-continent, Far East and North Africa.

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a key market for Aiana Hotels and Resorts and we are honoured to open our first property in Makkah. At Aiana, we are conscious of the deep religious sentiment that drives millions of devout pilgrims to Makkah every year and our key focus will be to offer a comfortable and seamless experience while being mindful of the austere nature of their travel,” added Nair. - TradeArabia News Service