Al Habtoor Group Founding Chairman Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor officially inaugurated the Al Habtoor City, Hotel Collection along with Marriott International at a grand opening VIP event on Wednesday 6 December. The much-anticipated hospitality, entertainment and residential complex, comprises of three prominent five-star luxury hotel brands, Dubai’s first-ever St. Regis Dubai, the UAE’s first W Hotel and the Middle East’s largest Westin Hotel. The historical opening ceremony marked the first completed project along the banks of the newly launched Dubai Water Canal.

Khalaf Al Habtoor said, “The Al Habtoor City, Hotel Collection is one of three exceptional collections within this unique landmark development. We are delighted to have Marriott International as our partners for the Hotel Collection where we have encapsulated three exceptional brands under one roof. Al Habtoor City has already earned its place on the Dubai skyline as a landmark destination alongside The Dubai Water Canal. We look forward to the completion of the Leisure Collection and Residence Collection next year.”

High-level guests, representing the who’s who of Dubai society, including members of the travel and hospitality industry and key regional members of the media, got the opportunity to experience all three hotels within The Hotel Collection. They started their journey in the landscaped Versailles Gardens of The St. Regis Dubai where Chairman Al Habtoor officially inaugurated the landmark destination. The Chairman joined Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director, Middle East & Africa, for Marriott International, Inc. The reception was followed by a gala dinner at The Westin Dubai, Al Habtoor City. The night progressed to W Lounge located on 30 floor of W Dubai – Al Habtoor City, where guests mingled while enjoying the spectacular night view of Dubai’s skyline.

Highlights of the evening included a special teaser of La Perle by Dragone, the leading cultural creation company. La Perle will make its debut mid-2017 at Al Habtoor City in a purpose-built aqua theatre located in The Atrium nestled between The St. Regis Dubai and W Dubai – Al Habtoor City. Guests were also treated to a Michelin Star culinary experience curated by a fleet of award-winning chefs from across the complex.

Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director, Middle East & Africa, for Marriott International, Inc. ” This is a significant moment for us as we take another step towards our goal of expanding our footprint across the UAE, adding more properties as we go, introducing more of our global brands to enhance our portfolio in the Middle East and Africa.

“We at Marriott International are committed to supporting the vision of Dubai, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading destination for global travel. We see great potential in the future of this destination and continue to support the efforts of Dubai tourism while remaining focused on creating memorable experiences for visitors across Marriott’s brands.”

The three hotels within the Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection collectively present nearly 1,600, 18 restaurants and lounges, two spas, 34 meeting and banqueting spaces, including three state-of-the-art ballrooms.