Al Sondos Suites in Dubai launches ambitious programme of improvements

Al Sondos Suites by Le Meridien, the group’s luxury all-suite property in Dubai, has announced it is extending and improving its outdoor terraces in response to the increasing popularity of downtown al fresco dining.

The renovations will create three additional private seating areas outside the Arabic restaurant Al Mabsam, as well as outdoor live cooking and pizza stations by News Café, the property’s 24 hour outlet.

The outdoor renovations are the first of a number of initiatives tabled for 2004, with general manager Naif Zureikat pointing out that it is essential to evolve the Al Sondos product continuously to succeed.

Zureikat said: “With a repeat guest factor of up to 70 per cent at times, Al Sondos Suites by Le Méridien is delivering on its promise to twin international hotel management efficiencies with traditional Arabic hospitality.

“This year – our first full year of operations – has been a tremendous success, and we have over-achieved on occupancy, profit and revenue. But this is no time to rest on our laurels as the Dubai market becomes ever-more competitive.

“As such, we are starting an ambitious programme to improve our offering, starting with the new landscaping for our terraced dining areas.”

Opened 15 months ago, the all-suite, 11-storey building located opposite the Deira City Centre mall in Deira features 106 studio, one- and two-bedroom suites, as well as a fully-equipped business centre, pool deck and health centre, a 24-hour News Café and the Arabic restaurant, Al Mabsam.

Meanwhile, Le Meridien Hotels & Resorts has taken over management of Al Sondos’ sister property, Dar Al Sondos Hotel Apartments in Dubai. The 144-unit property adds another accommodation segment to the group’s offering in the UAE, where it now operates five properties, including the upscale resort Le Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, with Grosvenor House by Le Meridien to open in 2005 – the first hotel on Dubai Marina.