PUTTING ON THE RITZ IN DUBAI

When it opened in 1998 The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai represented one of the first five-star beach hotels in the Emirate.   Of course, times change, and multiple man made islands, world’s tallest skyscrapers, yacht marinas and new airports later, The Ritz-Carlton is now entering a second phase of its legend.

Adjacent to The Emirates Golf Club and next to the JBR Walk, a beachfront promenade of luxury retail shops and restaurants, with 3,500 feet of beach and 350,000 square feet of manicured gardens, the hotel features 40 suites out of its 148 keys.  Since its re-launch in February the hotel has run at least 80 percent occupancy in the highly competitive Dubai market, according to Luca Guerra, Director of Sales & Marketing.

A veteran of One & Only, the Frenchman says his current hotel is sizzling with Blue Jade just shortlisted for BBC’s Food Awards and garnering Elegant Hotels’ award for Best Hotel.  Its two Royal Suites, each 2,368 square feet, are often booked sold and there is high demand for suites in all categories.   While the new spa is also getting raves, Guerra says one source of business might be a surprise:  Catering for mega-yacht parties.  During the recent Formula One the hotel catered for seven yacht parties, including providing Ritz-Carlton service onboard.