HMH takes Coral brand to Iraq

Dubai-based Coral Hotels & Resorts has tied up with United Iraqi Trading Company to manage deluxe property Coral Boutique Hotel Baghdad in Iraq.

Situated in the heart of Baghdad in one of most prestigious avenues in Jadriya area, the Coral Boutique Hotel Baghdad is merely 5 kilometers from International Zone (formerly known as the Green Zone) district – a heavily guarded diplomatic area. Conveniently located 30 kilometers from Baghdad International Airport, the deluxe hotel is the perfect starting point for exploring the city’s key attractions such as the National Theatre, the National Museum, the Latin Church and Aaras Tourist Village.

Michel Noblet, President & CEO, HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings, said, “This development aligns perfectly with HMH’s strategic growth plans in the region. We are thrilled to take our brand to Baghdad and to welcome this amazing destination to the Coral family. Coral Boutique Hotel Baghdad embodies the distinctive experience that our guests expect from Coral along with the rich local culture and warmth. With its prime location in the prestigious Jadriya area and proximity to major business and leisure attractions, we know that it will be a very successful property.  We hope to play a significant role in the emergence of Baghdad as a popular destination and leading economy in the Middle East.”

The developers wish to turn Coral Boutique Hotel Baghdad into a “destination address”.

Khalid Al Yasiry, Managing Director, United Iraqi Trading Company, said, “We are excited to work with the Coral Hotels & Resorts and look forward to offering a memorable experience in terms of product and service to our valued guests. We are confident that Coral Boutique Hotel Baghdad will deliver outstanding hospitality and would be a very safe address in Baghdad being situated in a prime location as well as being equipped with the highest level of security.”

Featuring 80 rooms and suites, Coral Boutique Hotel Baghdad is in advanced stages of development and due for opening in the next few weeks. Boasting premium amenities, all guestrooms are equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Superb dining, flexible and intimate meeting spaces, and fantastic leisure options make for a memorable stay. Khalid stressed, “No matter what brings you to Baghdad, at the Coral Boutique Hotel your every need will be graciously met in the highest degree of safety and security. It is a place you will want to come back to again and again.”

“Iraq is a lot safer now and with all its history and civilization is once again drawing people and always will,” Michel stressed. “From the ruins of Babylon to the historical riches of Baghdad, it is one of the most ancient cradles of civilization boasting some of the finest archaeological and holy sites in the world.”

The number of tourists visiting Iraq is growing rapidly. An estimated 1.5 million people visited the country in 2011, up from 1.25 million in 2009 and just 266,000 in 2006. In addition to its touristic charm, there is massive economic development taking place in the country that has resulted in a large number of business travellers. Over 2 million people are expected to visit Iraq this year. As a result the airline and hotel capacity are on the rise too.

A Citybank study on the fastest-growing economies placed Iraq second out of 10 nations with the most promising growth prospects for the period 2010-2015, with a yearly increase in GDP of 11.7%. Iraq’s National Development Plan (2010-2014) calls for $186bn in spending to set the country on course to become a diverse and competitive economy dominated by the private sector.

Michel said, “It is no doubt a very promising scenario and gives our brands a unique opportunity for growth and expansion. We have two more hotels under negotiation in the country.”

With a network of 33 exceptional properties in key destinations across the Middle East and Africa, HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings offers 4 distinct hotel brands catering to diverse segments, from luxury to budget hotels. Coral Hotels & Resorts is a powerful 5-star brand that has established an unrivalled reputation with its family-friendly style and safe-environment philosophy. Powered by global marketing infrastructure, superior sales and technology resources, savvy revenue management and award-winning service, the group is expanding rapidly in the region.

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