Cristal Hotels and Resorts, one of the fastest-growing hotel chains in the region, has plans to open up eight new hotels in China as part of an Asian expansion programme.

The brand also said it will extensively explore market opportunities in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, and mainland China.

Cristal Hotels is currently attending the invitation-only Asia Luxury Travel Market (ALTM) exhibition and conference taking place from June 14 to 17 in Shanghai, to better assess opportunities in the region.

The company has confirmed plans to expand in Qatar and in Saudi Arabia, particularly into Riyadh, Jeddah, Khobar and Mecca.

“Regardless of the state of the economy global companies will still need to send their key people abroad, thus the resilience of our sector despite the downturn. We want to take advantage of this steady flow of business and establish a strong presence in the emerging markets of Asia as part of our overall Middle East & Asia growth strategy,” said Peter Blackburn, CEO, Cristal Hotels and Resorts.

Cristal Hotels and Resorts launched its property in Abu Dhabi in 2009. Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi features 192 rooms and suites, food and beverage outlets, a business center and meeting rooms, underground parking, and leisure and lifestyle amenities such as an indoor pool, a sauna and a beauty salon.-TradeArabia News Service