Dubai: The Oetker Hotel Collection (OHC), a boutique European hotel operator, said it will operate a 250-room hotel in Abu Dhabi marking its entry in the region.
This is also the hotel's first footprint outside Europe, officials said.
OHC has appointed regional hospitality veteran Samir Daqqaq to spearhead the regional expansion strategy as OHC's senior vice-president (Development) for the Middle East and Africa.
The high-level delegation is headed by Frank Marrenbach, CEO of OHC, and includes Dr Timo Gruenert, Chief Financial Officer of OHC, and Samir Daqqaq. The roadshows also included negotiations on strategic alliances with local partners to expand the collection's portfolio in the region.
"As part of our development plan, we are happy to be in Abu Dhabi to officially announce the launch of OHC in the region. The Oetker Hotels Collection offers luxury, elegance, exclusivity and style and we are happy to bring the distinct European hotel charm to this wonderful region. Our hotels are real masterpieces, driven by passion and run by hearts and we offer our guests a real environment of art and authenticity," Marrenbach said in a statement.
On offer
The OHC operates the world's finest luxurious hotels, displaying authentic European élan and settings with genuine period furnishings, comfortable rooms and lavish suites. The collection also boasts a variety of facilities and services that meet the needs of both business and leisure travellers.
Daqqaq said: "We have met prospective partners to build on our expansion plans here and extend the aristocracy that has brought kings, queens, dignitaries and countless others to OHC exquisite hotels over the last 50 years."
"As part of our development plan, we are happy to be in the GCC and Lebanon to officially announce our launch and introduce the OHC to the region," he said.
"The family-run OHC has long been associated with style, nobility and efficiency and has created a timeless tradition at each of its properties."
Daqqaq joined OHC after 30 years with Marriott International. He was the vice-president of Global Sales for the Middle East and Africa when he retired. A 1979 graduate in hotel management of Cairo's Helwan University, Daqqaq has been recognised by various organisations for his contributions to the regional hospitality sector.
Once operational, Le Bristol Abu Dhabi will feature 250 luxury guest rooms with a minimum size of 40 square metres and suites with private fitness and amenities. Guest facilities will include various exciting and contemporary gastronomic choices with an up-market cafe, a gourmet restaurant and rooms with seaside views for up to 300 people.
Background
In 1891, Dr August Oetker, a pharmacist from Bielefeld in Germany, invented baking powder in a room at the back of his shop, an invention that led to the creation of the "Dr Oetker" brand. It was the beginning of this empire that led to the "Oetker signature".
During the course of the company's successes and financial opportunities, the ever-expanding Oetker Group diversified into food and beverage products, maritime transport and luxury hotels.
