Starwood to launch Middle East’s first Aloft-branded resort in Palm Jumeirah

Starwood Hotels and Resorts announced that it has signed an agreement with Dubai businessman Rashid Al Abbar to open the Middle East’s first Aloft-branded resort in Palm Jumeirah.

Scheduled to open in 2017, the Aloft Dubai, The Palm will be the first mid-market hotel brand on the island.

Located on the right side of the Palm’s crescent, the resort will offer 192 rooms, including 10 suites and will feature Starwood’s keyless entry system that enables guests to use their smartphone or Apple watch as a room key.

Guests will also have access to a 500-metre stretch of beach with sun beds and a gazebo.

Food and beverage options include brand’s signature W XYZ Bar, its 24-hour eatery re:fuel by Aloft, an all-day dining outlet and a speciality restaurant.

Other amenities include a fitness centre, an outdoor splash pool, four meeting rooms and free wifi throughout the property.

President of Starwood Hotels Europe, Africa and Middle East Michael Wale said: “The UAE remains our strongest growth market in the Middle East and this deal reinforces the demand for mid-market hotel development in the region.”

Aloft made its debut in the Middle East in 2009 in Abu Dhabi. The brand further plans to open seven properties across the United Arab Emirates by 2019.

“Aloft hotels continues to gain momentum around the world and is expected to quadruple its portfolio in the Middle East by 2019,” said senior vice president of Acquisitions and Development at Starwood Hotels Africa and Middle East Neil George.

Aloft Dubai, The Palm will be the third hotel on Palm Jumeirah that will be managed by Starwood, joining the W and St. Regis hotels which are scheduled to open in 2017 and 2018 respectively.