Dubai: The Dubai developer Nakheel’s hospitality expansion took another step with the signing of a letter of intent for a management agreement with Thailand’s Minor Hotel Group. This is for a 372-room hotel at Ibn Battuta Mall.
Under the proposed agreement, the hotel will be managed under the Avani Hotels & Resorts brand. This is the second collaboration for Nakheel and Minor Hotel Group in five months. Last September, they had announced a joint venture for a 500-room Avani beachfront resort at Deira Islands,
“We continue to work with reputable international partners to bring new brands to Dubai, further enhancing and diversifying the emirate’s hotel accommodation offering,” said Ali Rashid Lootah, Nakheel’s Chairman, who was in Bangkok for the signing of the agreement.
Minor’s portfolio currently comprises more than 17,000 rooms across 145 properties in 22 countries. Apart from Avani, the other brands include Anantara and Tivoli.
The latest signing will mean two Nakheel-owned hotels at Ibn Battuta and takes the hospitality portfolio to 10 overall.
“The location at Ibn Battuta Mall, one of the world’s largest themed malls in one of the city’s fastest growing areas, is perfect for guests who enjoy Avani’s relaxed comfort and contemporary style,” said Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotel Group.
