Continuing its expansion in the GCC, Swiss-Belhotel International (SBI) has entered into a management agreement with Al Salaam International Hotel to operate a new hotel in Oman.


Expected to open in 2019, the three-star Swiss-Belinn Muscat enjoys an outstanding location in Seeb in close proximity to Muscat International Airport.

Nadhim Said Hamdan Al Rawahi, partner of Al Salaam International Hotel, stated: “We believe with its strong global network and experience, the Swiss-Belhotel International will add tremendous value to this project. The Swiss-Belinn Muscat is being equipped with the very best facilities in the upper three-star category and will contribute greatly to the development of tourism in Oman. The project location is across the airport and hence our main concept is blending business, transits and pleasure. We are looking forward to extending our attractive “Omani” hospitality portfolio with Swiss-Belhotel. Furthermore, we are looking to contribute to the social-economic development of Oman and enable to provide direct and indirect jobs to Omanis in the hospitality sector.”

Gavin M. Faull, chairman and president of Swiss-Belhotel International, said: “We are thrilled to debut in Oman with a reputed partner like Al Salaam International Hotel. It is an exciting time for us as we continue to strengthen our presence in the GCC. The scale and diversity of our brands allow us to serve any market segment or need. Swiss-Belinn Muscat will be ideal for travellers looking for a comfortable and affordable accommodation.”

Swiss-Belinn Muscat, equipped with 120 standard rooms and 10 varieties of suites, is being developed to offer its guests a comprehensive range of facilities including an all-day-dining restaurant, flexible meeting and conference venues, gym, wi-fi access and 24-hours room service. Given its fantastic location near the airport, the hotel will serve as the perfect abode for transit passengers looking for stop-overs and airline crews as well as corporate travellers on a short visit to Oman or those facing unexpected flight halts.

With a strategy focused on expanding in high-growth markets, Swiss-Belhotel International is rapidly growing its footprint across the Middle East. Laurent A. Voivenel, senior vice president, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said: “We are proud to add the Swiss-Belinn Muscat to our superb portfolio of hotels in the Middle East. Oman’s tourism industry has experienced strong growth over the past few years, and this is expected to continue. However, the country’s hospitality sector is currently dominated by luxury five-star or four-star hotels leaving an enormous gap and opportunity in the midscale sector. Hence it is the perfect time for us to enter the market and position the hugely successful three-star Swiss-Belinn brand capitalising on the rising demand for high quality affordable accommodation." - TradeArabia News Service