Tourism levels may have decreased after the September 11 attacks in the United States, but the market is back to where it was before, according to Anis Al Jallaf, Chairman of Union Properties. Al Jallaf spoke at the opening of the Marriott Executive Apartments in Dubai.
"I think that tourism dropped, but now I have noticed that tourism has increased substantially in Dubai," said Al Jallaf.
According to Gulf News, just like pre-September 11 times, there is a demand in Dubai for executive apartments aimed at the long-term visitor market. He added that "There might be a recession worldwide but there is a need for these apartments - they are a niche market."
The Dubai facility has 74 one-bedroom, 80 two-bedroom and 18 three-bedroom apartments. They are completely fitted with kitchens, desks and telephones with voice mail and data port. Various services also include housekeeping, grocery shopping, dry cleaning and laundry. For leisure, guests can use the swimming pool, gym, sauna, steam room and whirlpool.
The Marriott Executive Apartments, which are owned and developed by Union Properties PJSC, are the newest residential facility to be managed by Marriott International.
The luxurious apartments provide an interesting and convenient alternative to a hotel for the needs of busy businessmen, who are staying in Dubai for long periods of time.
The 172 fully furnished serviced apartments are located in the Skywalk Towers A and B, near the Clock Tower roundabout, overlooking the beautiful Dubai Creek.
Ed Fuller, president and managing director of Marriott Lodging, said that the project was the first of its kind for the group in the region. "This is our first opening in our 75th year, and this year will also mark the opening of our 2,500th property," he gladly declared.
Fuller stated that "September 11 was a catalyst for recession. Our operation is in 60 countries and when we look at each of these markets they are different.” "The Middle East is a separate market, and for this region Dubai is its leisure destination. So, we are very positive in the Middle East. We are interested in looking at the long term."
Budapest, Prague, Brussels, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Mumbai also have apartments in a similar style. Later on this year, Marriott plans to open more in Shanghai and Dalian. In 2003, it will open them in Sao Paulo and by 2004 at Canary Wharf, London. (Albawaba.com)
