Now Open: The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre Takes its Place in Luxury Group

After much anticipation and years of preparation, The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) officially opens its doors today. The 341-room hotel, with 124 executive residences, is the second Ritz-Carlton in Dubai and the sixth property in the region for the luxury hotel company.

Lothar Quarz, general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC was joined by hotel owners and senior leaders from The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. for a private official ribbon cutting ceremony. "This day marks the beginning of an exciting new journey," states Quarz. "I am truly proud of our ladies and gentlemen who have worked hard to put the final details into place. It is their work ethic, commitment to providing the best service, and relentless determination that will elevate our guests' experiences and set us apart from our competition."

Herve Humler, president and chief operating officer for The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. said, "The company philosophy is to design hotels that are casually elegant, with the occasional classical influence as appropriate. This hotel is a stunning example of that strategic direction." Humler added "Being able to expand our presence in Dubai and be part of a region of substantial growth is a tremendous opportunity. Of course, we were quick to welcome the chance to provide an outstanding meeting venue for the international companies that already have a presence in this complex."

As the only hotel to be directly linked to the complex of buildings in Dubai International Financial Centre, the social hub will be at No. 5, the hotel bar located in the prime welcoming position at the end of this pathway. A dramatic 30 meter (100 feet) wine wall that is home to 3000 bottles of the finest varietals in the world is a focal point for gourmands and wine connoisseurs. Other dining selections include Blue Rain, the signature Thai fine-dining restaurant; Can Can, a French all-day dining brasserie and the Center Cut steakhouse, providing multiple settings for the enjoyment of the cuisine made famous by The Ritz-Carlton chefs. The Lobby Lounge & Terrace offers a casual elegance for the enjoyment of afternoon tea. Each restaurant boasts an expansive outdoor terrace.

Clik here to see a video tour of the hotel by Lothar Quarz.

A unique design facet of The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC showcases a 10-storey outdoor waterfall cascading down the building directly into the courtyard facing the lobby. A total of eight striking water features are situated throughout the hotel, which are not only aesthetically and aurally pleasing, but lend themselves to the feng shui belief that the constant flow of water signifies wealth and prosperity.

Recreational amenities include a fully equipped health club and luxurious Ritz-Carlton Spa, offering 13 treatment rooms.

Guests who wish to be among the first to stay or hold their event at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre may telephone +9714 372 2555 or click www.ritzcarlton.com/dubaiifc.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 73 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe with future openings which include Toronto and Hong Kong, the tallest hotel in the world. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR)

Allison Sitch
Sr. Corporate Director, Public Relations
+1-301-547-4784
Ritz-Carlton