Planet unveils plan for new five-star hotel in Abu Dhabi

Dubai: Planet Group is set to start construction of a five-star hotel and apartment complex, situated in the Danat area of Abu Dhabi, with a total investment of Dh1 billion.

Architectural and Engineering Consultants Offices (AEC), master developer of Al Qudra Holding for Danat Abu Dhabi is also appointed by Planet to do the design consultancy for its properties as well. Soon the properties will be associated with an international hotel chain. Negotiations are in final stages.

The new hotel will have 400 rooms and a convention centre along with a 400-unit, 23-floor apartment complex. The property will be operational by 2010.

The Dubai-based Planet group operates and manages the Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa, the Orient Guest House, the Galaxy Plaza Hotel and entertainment complex under its large portfolio of diverse companies.

Since its launch, Planet has been an industry innovator, achieving many benchmarks which are remarkable for such a young and developing unit that has only completed a decade of operations.

Planet Group chairman George Moussa said: "The group's strategy for 2008 focuses on looking for innovative ideas and improving existing services within the hospitality division, while maintaining an average annual growth rate of 35 per cent. The group sees the Middle East as a vital market."

The project to construct the five-star hotel and serviced apartments was launched last year at a total cost of Dh600 million.