Hilton Hotels Corporation has announced plans to open the Doubletree Suites by Hilton Ras Al Khaimah in Q1 2010.

The hotel chain has signed a management agreement with Mohamed Ahmed Ali Hassan Ruqait, marking the entry of the Doubletree by Hilton brand into the Middle East.

“Our belief is that guests and investors should be able to choose between a multitude of brands each offering a different product for a different market segment and investment risk profile. Hence we are delighted to further the growth of the Hilton Family with the first Doubletree by Hilton agreement in this region, and the first branded all-suite hotel product in Ras Al Khaimah. The Doubletree brand offers distinctively designed full-service upscale hotels and suites. We are extremely delighted to partner with Mr Ruqait on this property,” said Jean-Paul Herzog, area president, Hilton Hotels, Middle East & Africa.

With a network that spans more than 200 hotels and resorts around the world, Doubletree’s first signing in the Middle East will bring with it the Culture of Care (Caring, Attentive, Responsive and Empowered service) which has made it an international icon of high quality service. This ethos transcends established standards by developing an emotional and personal experience for guests due to its individualised attention to detail, said a statement.

The new-build Doubletree Suites by Hilton Ras Al Khaimah plans to will feature 112 apartments fitted out in a contemporary style with innovative guest technology including an internet package and stereo speaker connectivity for MP3 players and CD players. The 84 studios, 14 one-bedroom apartments and 14 two-bedroom apartments are designed to re-create the comforts of home including a Sweet Dreams by Doubletree sleep experience to help ensure rest and relaxation whilst away from the comforts of home. Additional facilities planned for the hotel include an all-day dining restaurant and bar, a boardroom, business centre, swimming pool and a fitness centre, it said.

“We are pleased to partner with such a respected brand like Hilton and look forward to introducing the Doubletree by Hilton experience to the Middle East. With its heritage of warm hospitality and attention to detail, Doubletree will lend a rounded, more individual touch to the hospitality offerings here, and will help underline Ras Al Khaimah as an internationally attractive travel destination,” said Ruqait.

The property’s location in the Northern Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is in close proximity to major commercial and business sites such as the Free Trade Zone Business Park and the Exhibition Centre. Dubai International Airport is only a 45-minute drive away. – TradeArabia News Service