LAURENT A. VOIVENEL, SVP OPERATIONS & DEVELOPMENT, SWISS-BELHOTEL INTERNATIONAL, RANKED AMONG MOST INFLUENTIAL HOTEL PROFESSIONALS IN MENA REGION BY HOTELIER MIDDLE EAST

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Dubai – The much-awaited annual Hotelier Middle East Power 50 list is finally out! Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India, Swiss-Belhotel International, has been ranked for the 5th consecutive year among the top 20 hoteliers in the MENA hospitality industry, up by 5 ranks compared to last year. The prestigious Hotelier Power 50 list by Hotelier Middle East recognises and celebrates the region’s 50 most influential hotel professionals for their outstanding performance. Expressing his delight on this superb achievement, Laurent stated, “It is wonderful to be recognised by the region’s most reputed and popular trade publication. It is an exceptional resource for the hospitality sector providing key industry insights and business trends. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the entire team of Hotelier Middle East who puts in tremendous effort and energy in bringing out this amazing list that is considered the definitive ranking of the region’s hospitality players. I would also like to congratulate all fellow hoteliers who made it to the list.” With more than 32 years of experience, including 18 in the Middle East, Laurent is focused on accelerating the growth of Swiss-Belhotel International in the region. Elaborating on the opportunities, Laurent said, “The hospitality landscape across the region is developing at a rapid pace and we are keen to take advantage of this massive opportunity. Tourism performance in the main cities across the Middle East is expected to remain strong with the fruition of major infrastructure projects such as airport expansions, relaxation of travel policies, increased global connectivity and growth of low-cost carriers, new leisure attractions, enhanced business facilities and a year-long calendar of regional and international events. With 14 well-established brands, we are well equipped to meet the needs of every segment of the market. We are expanding our portfolio of brands across the region both in the upscale as well as in the mid-scale segment. For the first time in the region we have introduced brands such as Grand Swiss-Belresort, Swiss-Belresidences, Swiss-Belboutique and Swiss-Belinn. For further information visit http://www.swiss-belhotel.com  For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com About Swiss-Belhotel International Swiss-Belhotel International currently manages a portfolio of more than 150* hotels, resorts and projects located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Georgia, Italy and Tanzania.  Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for six consecutive years, Swiss-Belhotel International is one of the world’s fastest-growing international hotel and hospitality management groups. The Group provides comprehensive and highly professional development and management services in all aspects of hotel, resort and serviced residences. Offices are located in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, China, Europe, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam. www.swiss-belhotel.com *Numbers may fluctuate  

MPower Fitness Club Opens at Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai

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The Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai has announced the opening of the new MPower Fitness Club equipped with top-of-the-range fitness machines and outstanding facilities. Located on the hotels’ mezzanine level, the new gym is open to both hotel guests and outside members. Simon Moore, General Manager of Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, said, “MPower has been equipped with the latest in gym equipment including cardiovascular machines. Staffed by a professional team of certified trainers, who inspire members to reach their fitness goals, it offers a range of services to enhance health and wellbeing. Members can take advantage of flexible rates for weekdays, weekends, 1 month, 3 months or an annual basis.” Whether you are looking to get fit or lose those stubborn kilos or simply tone up, MPower offers the perfect solution with an exceptional fitness regime. Members are entitled to a host of exclusive benefits and privileges including the following:
  • Complimentary wireless Internet access
  • Complimentary swimming pool access
  • Induction and orientation of fitness club to ensure your technique and safety
  • Members who take 3 months subscription and above will avail the following:
–       20% discount on F & B except Room Service –       15% discount on room rates –       20% discount on laundry services –       One month extra membership on complimentary basis for 6 and 12 months availed subscription. To find out more call +971 4 702 8888 or email mpower.mahd@millenniumhotels.com For hotel marketing contact: Sheryl Aquiatan Assistant Marketing Manager Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai Mob: 00971 56 506 0983 Tel: 00971 4 702 8888 sheryl.aquiatan@millenniumhotels.com  For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com  Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Middle East and Africa Millennium Hotels and Resorts is a dynamic, global hotel company, which owns, asset manages and operates over 130 hotels worldwide. With almost 40,000 rooms and a portfolio of brands; including Biltmore, Grand Millennium, Millennium, Millennium Place, M Hotel, Copthorne, Kingsgate, Millennium Executive Apartments and Studio M, that serve different market segments, representing quality and value in every class. Currently operating 35 hotels in the Middle East and Africa, the Group has an extensive expansion strategy in place, with 40 hotels in the pipeline. Each property in the region is unique, catering to the varying tastes and needs of the international business and leisure traveller but with a consistent promise to provide a first class service and a rewarding experience for guests. Millennium Hotels and Resorts is committed to differentiating itself by embracing the true spirit of diverse traditions, with a sincere respect to historical heritage and local culture. With the motto “More than Meets the Eye”, Millennium & Copthorne is committed to a customer-centric philosophy and complete guest satisfaction. For more information, please visit www.millenniumhotels.com  

Eid Al Adha Feast at Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai

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Get together with your family and friends to celebrate the joyous occasion of Eid Al Adha with a sumptuous brunch in the spectacular surroundings of Loumi restaurant at the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai. The lavish buffet will feature a wide selection of the finest Arabic and International delicacies including fresh salads, sushi counter, indulgent seafood and live cooking stations, carvery and an assortment of delectable desserts. Lovers of Italian cuisine can enjoy Chef’s special menu at Da Vinci’s offering a superb mix of traditional Eid specialities as well as classic Italian flavours. Mr. Simon Moore, General Manager of the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, said, “Whether you wish to have a large gathering of family and friends, or simply an intimate dining experience, we have the perfect venue and promotion to make your Eid Al Adha celebrations memorable. Our team has been working very hard to ensure our guests have magical time together.” Loumi Eid brunch package starts from AED 199+VAT with unlimited soft drinks per adult, groups of 10 people and above can have one person dine free of charge while children below 5 years old, dine for free. The Eid Al Adha brunch will be available on 23rd and 24th August 2018 from 12 noon to 4pm. Chef’s special menu at Da Vinci’s will be available from 21st to 31st August 2018 from 12 noon until 11.30 pm. For hotel marketing contact: Sheryl Aquiatan Assistant Marketing Manager Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai Mob: 00971 56 506 0983 Tel: 00971 4 702 8888 sheryl.aquiatan@millenniumhotels.com For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Middle East and Africa Millennium Hotels and Resorts is a dynamic, global hotel company, which owns, asset manages and operates over 130 hotels worldwide. With almost 40,000 rooms and a portfolio of brands; including Biltmore, Grand Millennium, Millennium, Millennium Place, M Hotel, Copthorne, Kingsgate, Millennium Executive Apartments and Studio M, that serves different market segments, representing quality and value in every class. Currently operating 35 hotels in the Middle East and Africa, the Group has an extensive expansion strategy in place, with 40 hotels in the pipeline. Each property in the region is unique, catering to the varying tastes and needs of the international business and leisure traveller but with a consistent promise to provide a first-class service and a rewarding experience for guests. Millennium Hotels and Resorts is committed to differentiating itself by embracing the true spirit of diverse traditions, with a sincere respect to historical heritage and local culture. For more information, please visit www.millenniumhotels.com

eBay Motors Launches New Tools to Simplify Online Auto Parts Shopping

The platform’s latest auto schematic “Shop by Diagram” technology and an enhanced “My Garage” experience allows DIYers and mechanics to quickly identify and buy the right parts for auto repairs.

Westin Hotels & Resorts Announces the Appointment of Huang Xuan as New Well-being Brand Advocate of Greater China

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estin Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, has announced the appointment of Huang Xuan as the new well-being brand advocate for Greater China. As part of his appointment, Huang Xuan will be featured in a new brand campaign video available in-room at all Westin hotels in China. The collaboration aims to further underscore the Westin brand’s approach to wellness and encourage an active lifestyle, helping guests prioritize well-being even on the road. Andy Kong, Director of Brand and Marketing, Asia Pacific, Marriott International, is thrilled about the collaboration: “Westin ensures all aspects of the guest experience is designed with well-being in mind – from the iconic Heavenly Bed and Gear Lending program, to partnerships with TRX(Total Resistance Exercise)SUSPENSION TRAININGTM . As one of our well-being advocates in Asia Pacific, Huang Xuan’s mantra to wellness mirrors perfectly the brand values of Westin Hotels & Resorts. Through this collaboration, we hope to inspire our guests to stay active and feel their best.”

Andy Kong (Left), Director of Brand and Marketing, Asia Pacific, Marriott International with Huang Xuan

Actor Huang Xuan has always had a positive public image, maintaining a healthy fitness regime around a fast-paced, demanding career. He received dance training from a young age, the experience helps him maintain a healthy workout routine and has became a way for him to relax and unwind, enabling him to take on various acting challenges in a good mental and physical state, and handle life’s unexpected situations with confidence. In 2017, he won the Best Action Movie New Performer award at the Jackie Chan Action Movie Awards for his role in a crime thriller film. Huang Xuan said: “My work requires me to give it my all, physically and mentally, which means I need a healthy body and a strong mind to support me through this process. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle is crucial in ensuring great performances in front of the camera. I am delighted to collaborate with the Westin brand; and hope to inspire others to lead a wholesome lifestyle. When traveling, I find it particularly important to choose a hotel where I can work out and unwind, it helps me maintain my well-being,” said Huang Xuan.

Westin Hotels & Resorts Announces the Appointment of Huang Xuan as New Well-being Brand Advocate of Greater China

The collaboration between Westin and Huang Xuan includes a new brand campaign video inspired by the Move Well pillar, one of the brand’s six pillars of Well-Being. It encourages guests to join Huang Xuan and get active anytime and anywhere at a Westin Hotel. From showcasing facilities, such as the well-equipped Westin WORKOUT®Fitness Studios to the swimming pool – facilities that encourage guests to move, Huang Xuan also presents alternative options such as doing simple stretches in rooms or even using every day amenities such as water bottles as mini weights to work out.  The video also highlights some of the Westin brand’s signature programs such as RunWestin that features the best route to explore the surroundings on foot; and the Gear lending program in partnership with New Balance that allows guests to pack light and stay fit. The overall thematic of the video encourages travelers to break free from physical spaces and experience an active lifestyle across every aspect of a Westin hotel stay, a fitness studio on the move. Last year, Westin introduced a global campaign called Let’s Rise, taking on the distractions and unpredictability of travel and empowering people to regain control of their well-being when they need it most, while traveling. Westin aims to expand its portfolio to more destinations in China by 2022 including Haikou, Wenzhou, Qingdao, Changsha, Suzhou, Nanchang, Dalian and Nanning while also evolving its programs and partnerships, addressing how wellness is integrated into consumers’ lives through the brand’s Six Pillars of Well-Being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. ### About Westin Hotels & Resorts Westin Hotels & Resorts, a leader in wellness and hospitality for more than a decade, empowers guests and associates to embrace well-being and be their best selves through the brand’s six pillars of Well-Being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well.  At more than 200 hotels and resorts in nearly 40 countries and territories, guests can experience offerings that include the iconic Heavenly Bed, RunWESTIN and Westin Gear Lending with New Balance, delicious and nutritious SuperFoodsRx™ and more.  To learn more, visit www.westin.com. Stay connected to Westin: @westin on Twitter and Instagram and facebook.com/Westin.

NOW EXPLORE MAGICAL DINING IN ORLANDO

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100+ Restaurants Offer Great Rates through Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month Sponsored by American Express 19 New Additions for 2018; Plus First-time Vegan Options ORLANDO, Fla. – Starting today, foodies can begin making reservations for Orlando’s most popular restaurant month: Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month, sponsored by American Express. The program returns Aug. 24 – Sept. 30 with several “firsts” including: • 19 new participating restaurants including numerous diverse cuisines; • vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free menu options The program was designed by Visit Orlando to showcase the wide variety of upscale and diverse dining throughout the destination, while also helping children in need. More than 100 restaurants across the destination participate, with each offering a three-course, prix fixe dinner menu for just $35 per person. And, one dollar from every meal served is donated to a local charity. “Our Magical Dining program has become so popular that we now have visitors and residents wanting to make reservations well over a month in advance, just to ensure they get their top choices,” said Visit Orlando President and CEO, George Aguel. “We are delighted to see that people are eager for the program to kick off. That’s good news as it helps spread the word about Orlando’s incredible dining options, and also gives back to children in our local community.” The updated website OrlandoMagicalDining.com launches today, which includes the full list of participating restaurants, menus and – for the first time – designated options for vegans, vegetarians and gluten-free diets. OpenTable reservations are also available now. The wide range of venues spans areas from Disney Springs to Restaurant Row near the convention center, as well as burgeoning neighborhood districts in downtown Orlando, Winter Park and beyond. Through Visit Orlando, one dollar from every meal served during Magical Dining Month is donated to children in need. This year, the program will help children affected by intellectual and developmental disabilities, though donations to Best Buddies and The Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida. For more information, go to OrlandoMagicalDining.com. About Orlando Dining From internationally renowned chefs to home-grown venues, Orlando is a destination where the culinary possibilities are both fresh and seemingly endless. Theme parks restaurants keep Central Florida on the map with award-winning dining, and independent restaurateurs bring fresh concepts to the table. Whether locally owned or part of expanding franchises, many of the destination’s newest restaurants mirror the national trends: American cuisine, farm-friendly menus and simple food with regional accents. Nationally, Orlando has emerged as a prominent dining destination, and continues to grow in both quantity and quality of flavors About Visit Orlando Visit Orlando is the official tourism association for the most visited destination in the United States, with representation in more than a dozen countries around the world. Visit Orlando, together with its 1,200 member organizations, represents the area’s leading industry. Contact : SHIKHA MISHRA shikha@thinkstrawberries.com +91-9871104464 www.visitorlando.com

As More Tourists Take to the Seas, Alpha Destination Management Eyes Greater Growth in the Segment

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The cruise industry has long boasted of its value compared to land vacations. And now according to a new report from Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, cruise tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments of Dubai’s tourism industry with the city being among the world’s leading winter cruise destinations. Alpha Destination Management offers an enchanting choice of cruising experiences from alluring voyages to exciting on- and off-board excursions as well as luxury yacht charter services. The global cruise industry continues to grow rapidly with 27 million cruisers expected in 2018. By 2030 more than 40 million people worldwide will travel on cruise ships annually. Dubai is well-placed to be a global cruise tourism hub. Mr. Samir Hamadeh, General Manager of Alpha Destination Management, attributes this tremendous growth to, “The variety and diversity in cruise brands and experiences in UAE, outstanding infrastructure with the most modern and the largest dedicated port facility, multiple-entry UAE visas exclusively for cruise tourists, reduction in port charges at Dubai Cruise Terminal by 50 per cent for the upcoming season, plans to build new cruise terminals that will transform Dubai into a fully integrated maritime tourism hub with a capacity to accommodate six cruise ships at the same time and world-class safety and comfort of the travellers. Moreover, the customer base has both broadened and expanded with many more young travellers taking to the seas.” Despite the rise of online bookings in leisure travel, the cruise association estimates that around 85 per cent of all cruise bookings are made via travel agents. Mr. Hamadeh, said, “When it comes to cruising people are looking for more unique and interesting experiences tailored to their requirements that are created by experts specialised in the sector. We are witnessing continued growth in our cruise and yacht charter services and the upcoming season looks quite promising given the increasing demand. Often people like to do something different when celebrating a birthday, wedding anniversary, family reunion or corporate event. The broad variety of cruise options means there is a cruise for everyone combined with a wide choice of activities and excursions. At Alpha we offer the best available products and packages.” According to Cruise Arabia and Africa, the number of cruise passengers in Dubai increased to 625,000 in the 2016/2017 season compared to 320,000 in the 2013/2014 cruise season representing a 95 per cent growth rate. Over the next cruise season 2018/2019, the tourism board of Dubai expects to see 725,000 cruise tourists and 825,000 cruise tourists in the 2019/2020 season. For more information or to book your trip call +971 4 701 9111 #AlphaTours #AlphaToursDubai #AlphaDMC #AlphaToursAe #Dubai #VisitDubai #Dxb #MyDubai #luxurystyle #picsdubai #ilovedubai #travelgram #cruise #cruiselife #CruiseDays #CruiseTime #CruiseTravel #Yachts #YachtLife #YachtParty #YachtStyle #YachtCharters About Alpha Destination Management Founded in 1996, by Mr. Ghassan Aridi and his partners, Alpha Destination Management is the leading destination management company and a pioneer in the tourism sector in the Arabian Gulf. Over the last two decades, the company has established itself as one of the most credible and reputed brands not only in the Gulf region but also in the international tourism industry. Controlling a significant market share of the lucrative tourism sector in the GCC, Alpha Destination Management is a market leader in the region with the largest annual turnover and wide network of international partners offering the highest levels of service and innovative and exciting experiences. Our extensive global and local knowledge and network, outstanding expertise and sound reputation is the key to success for us and all our partners. For more information about Alpha Destination Management visit http://www.alphatoursdubai.com For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com  

Apple Kyoto Opens Saturday on Shijō Dori

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Apple will open its first store in Kyoto, a cultural and technological hub for Japan, Saturday on Shijō Dori. The street, surrounded by many of Kyoto’s famous shrines and temples, has served as the city’s main shopping corridor since the 1600s.
Apple Kyoto’s architecture takes inspiration from local design and materials, with the upper levels clad in a translucent envelope inspired by Japanese lanterns. The use of lightweight timber frame and special paper on the upper facade also draw reference to the country’s traditional houses. The building is centered around a multi-level atrium that is also where the store will offer free Today at Apple sessions daily on photography, music, coding and more.
Japan was home to Apple’s first store outside the US, opening in Tokyo in 2003. Apple is in the midst of a retail expansion in the country, opening several new stores, and remodeling many others, in the coming years.

Press Contacts

Sally Hamandi Apple hamandi@apple.com 8000 444 19291

Swiss-Belhotel International To Eliminate Plastic Straws

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DUBAI – Following up on Swiss-Belhotel International’s global initiative to enhance the sustainability of its operations and reduce plastic consumption, the group has announced plans to eliminate the use of disposable plastic straws from its existing and upcoming properties across the Middle East and Africa region. Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior Vice President, Operations and Development for the Middle East, Africa and India for Swiss-Belhotel International, said, “We are constantly striving to reduce our environmental impact where we operate and are committed to putting a complete ban on single-use (throw-away) plastics gradually. As part of the policy we are actively seeking to source non-plastic alternatives where possible and reducing our reliance on plastic. Removing disposable plastic straws from our hotels is going to be the first step in that direction. We know there’s a lot more ground to cover but every single action counts.” According to industry reports the ‘throw-away’ culture is doing a catastrophic damage to the environment. An estimated eight million tons of plastic waste enter oceans every year and research projects that plastic in our oceans could triple in a decade. The scale of the plastic problem is evident from these figures: 480 billion plastic bottles were sold worldwide in 2016; one trillion single-use plastic bags were used every year; more than half a million plastic straws were used every day around the world. If the world continues to generate plastic waste at the current rate approximately 12 billion tonnes will be in landfills or the natural environment by 2050. #SwissBelHotel #SwissBelHotelME #CleanSeas #TravelWithoutPlastic #BeTheChange #NoMorePlastic For further information visit http://www.swiss-belhotel.com For media contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR Mob: 00971 50 6975146 Tel: 00971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com About Swiss-Belhotel International Swiss-Belhotel International currently manages a portfolio of more than 150* hotels, resorts and projects located in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Bulgaria, Georgia, Italy and Tanzania.  Awarded Indonesia’s Leading Global Hotel Chain for six consecutive years, Swiss-Belhotel International is one of the world’s fastest-growing international hotel and hospitality management groups. The Group provides comprehensive and highly professional development and management services in all aspects of hotel, resort and serviced residences. Offices are located in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, China, Europe, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam. www.swiss-belhotel.com *Numbers may fluctuate    

First Central Hotel Suites Adds New Meeting Facilities

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First Central Hotel Suites in Barsha Heights has recently expanded its events facilities adding two new meeting rooms designed to offer greater choice to its guests for small-to-medium-sized events. Wael El Behi, General Manager of First Central Hotel Suites, said, “It is the little things that make all the difference, hence our aim is to add more value to meetings. We anticipate our client’s needs and deliver what matters most so that the attendees are relaxed, recharged and ready to work. Our elegantly appointed meeting facilities inspire success. Combining creative and flexible spaces, exceptional catering and outstanding services, the First Central Hotel Suites is an ideal venue for intimate business and social gatherings.” Equally superb are the hotel’s meeting packages that bundle a range of business amenities together with an inclusive price. These include comfortable meeting spaces for up to 30 people, Wi-Fi, flip chart, audio-visual equipment, exciting coffee breaks, snacks and meal options. Rates start from AED 70 per person and are subject to hotel’s booking terms and conditions. Centrally located within easy reach of the emirate’s key business and leisure hubs, First Central Hotel Suites is 524 hotel suites with large, spacious, and modern apartments, equipped with top-notch facilities and cozy ambiance. In close proximity to the hotel are Dubai Internet City Metro Station, Dubai Media City, Dubai Marina, Montgomerie, Emirates Golf Club, and Mall of the Emirates. For hotel inquiries & reservations: Call: +971 4 454 4900 or email reservations.fc@central-hotels.com Follow Us on @FirstCentralAE #FirstCentalAE #CanalCentalAE #CentralHotels #StayFresh  About Central Hotels Central Hotels has very quickly established itself as a reputed hotel management group in the UAE with its flagship property First Central Hotel Suites located in Barsha Heights (TECOM) near Sheikh Zayed Road. Building up on this amazing success, the brand is now poised to expand its footprint targeting the UAE and Turkey as the primary markets for growth in addition to other lucrative destinations in the Middle East. The group has recently added to its portfolio spectacular new 5-star hotels such as Canal Central Business Bay and Royal Central The Palm followed by Central House Citywalk focused on millennials, Novotel The Palm, Diamond Central – Business Bay, and Island Central in Dubai, as well as Valley Central Bursa, and Valley Central Trabzon in Turkey. For more information visit www.central-hotels.com For Media Contact: Hina Bakht Managing Director EVOPS Marketing & PR M: +971 50 6975146 | T: +971 4 566 7355 Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com www.evops-pr.com