The Hideaways Club, a leading international property investment fund, has launched a new sales and marketing operation to cover the GCC.

The Hideaways Club concept consists of two unique pillars: a fund and a private members club, said a statement.

The Hideaways Fund is an international luxury property investment fund that focuses on value creation through professional buying and management of overseas holiday homes. The properties are fully maintained and serviced on behalf of the fund investors, and by buying a share in the fund investors automatically become members of The Hideaways Club.

Launched in 2007 by Mike Balfour, formerly chairman of the world’s largest health club operation Fitness First, The Hideaways Club is now the largest club of its kind in Europe with more than 150 members and 27 solely-owned multi-million dollar luxury properties throughout Europe, Africa, Mauritius and South East Asia.

Through the company’s recent alliances with US-based Equity Estates and the Banyan Tree Private Collection, members now have the choice of more than 45 magnificent properties in which to holiday throughout the year.

The company is now expanding its sphere of operations into the Gulf, specifically targeting people who are looking to combine investments with exclusive access to luxury properties.

Commenting on this new move, Mike Balfour, chairman and co-founder of The Hideaways Club, said: “I’ve had a long relationship with the UAE and have always believed that The Hideaways Club would appeal to the unique demographics here. There are many expats and nationals looking for sound investments that offer that something extra. We are very excited by the initial response we have had in the region and we see the Middle East as one of the fastest growing and most exciting destinations in which to launch the Club.”

The announcement follows on news last month of a new partnership between The Hideaways Club and Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates. As a result of this partnership, members of The Hideaways Club can benefit from exclusive fares and services, bespoke business class fares, use of spa facilities and fine dining options at airport lounges, and automatic entry to Etihad’s frequent flyer programme, Etihad Guest. -TradeArabia News Service