Al Basel Consultancy, a leading consultancy firm, has signed a major deal to enhance the business performance of Habtoor Hotels across the Middle East.

The Middle East’s tourism sector is expected to achieve moderate growth in 2009 despite the global economic crisis, thus making the area the second largest growth region in the world behind Asia and a lucrative market for hoteliers.

The World Tourism Organisation’s 'Tourism 2020 Vision' estimates that international travel to the region will grow at a faster pace compared to other rival global destinations, receiving almost 70 million visitors.

'The Middle East continues to maintain its appeal as a leisure and business destination, which is why hospitality players such as Habtoor Hotels need to boost their strategic position in this competitive market,' stated Basel Al Kasem, CEO, Al Basel Consultancy.

'We offer the expertise to streamline hospitality operations in tune with today’s business realities.'

“We are confident that Al Basel will lead us to higher levels of productivity, which is essential for us take a lead in Middle Eastern hospitality. This partnership complements our goal of providing a uniquely Arabian hospitality experience to the region’s residents and visitors,” added Rahim Abu Omar, chief executive, Habtoor Hotels.

Habtoor Hotels maintains key properties in Dubai and Beirut, two established commercial and leisure hubs in the region.

Its Dubai venues include the Dh714 million Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, the Metropolitan Palace Hotel, the Metropolitan Hotel, and the Metropolitan Hotel Deira, with work already underway on an Dh1.2 billion Habtoor Island Resort & Spa to open in 2011 at the Palm Jumeirah.

The group manages two properties in Beirut, the Habtoor Grand Hotel Convention Center & Spa and the Metropolitan Palace Hotel.

Al Basel Consultancy helps hotel & property owners and developers to optimise their business processes and react to changing market conditions.-TradeArabia News Service