IHG signs First Hotel in Morocco

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has signed an agreement with Moroccan developer, Groupe Cadex, for its very first property in Morocco in the beautiful resort destination of Marrakech. Not only is this the first venture into Morocco for the InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brand, but also for parent company IHG.

The new-build resort development – the InterContinental Marrakech Resort & Spa – is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2011. The resort will comprise 180 rooms and suites, a first-class 2,000 square meter spa, a diverse selection of dining and leisure options. As well as 118 apart-hotel units, the resort will boast a mix of upscale InterContinental-branded residential units, including riads, villas and apartments that will have access to a variety of a-la-carte hotel services. While guests will enjoy views of the Atlas Mountains, the resort will be located just a ten-minute drive from the airport and city centre. Groupe Cadex has assembled a highly renowned team of advisors including architects JLA and interior designers KCA International.

Marrakech is the second largest city in Morocco and located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Welcoming approximately 30% of tourist arrivals into Morocco, Marrakech’s key attractions include its stunning location, historic medina, gardens, mosques, galleries and the largest traditional souk in Morocco.

Jennifer Fox, Chief Operating Officer of InterContinental Hotels & Resorts for Europe and North Africa, said, “The signing of the InterContinental Marrakech Resort & Spa to our portfolio is a major coup for us and we are absolutely delighted that we have managed to secure such a great location and partnership for our first project in Morocco. The country is an increasingly important and high-profile destination for international travellers and we are confident this development will cement our position in the region and in a market to which we are committed.”

In addition to the InterContinental Marrakech Resort & Spa, Groupe Cadex is currently planning additional hotel properties in Marrakech (including a second golf resort) and in Morocco (including projects in the Casablanca region and in Tangiers).

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