Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1105939
18.04.19 2 NEWS CORINTHIA has announced the opening of its first hotel in the Middle East. Due to launch in 2020, this contemporary beachfront hotel marks the beginning of ambitious expan- sion plans by the hotel group. Corinthia Meydan Beach Du- bai will be located on the pres- tigious JBR beachfront, reflect- ing the enriching brand values for which Corinthia is known. As such, this opening repre- sents an important, landmark moment for Corinthia in both the region and worldwide. Working in partnership with Meydan Group, Corinthia Meydan Beach has been de- signed as a spectacular new beachfront resort that will exquisitely reflect both the bliss of the beach and the ex- citement of the city; allowing guests to discover something new about Dubai and them- selves. Situated within Dubai Marina, overlooking a pris- tine stretch of white sand, the 55-storey hotel will be home to 360 exquisite rooms and suites. is beachfront landmark will be complete with cascad- ing infinity pools, the region's first ESPALife Spa and unfor- gettable culinary experiences. It's also intelligently designed for spectacular views across to the Dubai Eye and Palm Jumei- rah. Internationally renowned American design professionals AE7 have ensured each detail of the hotel has been meticu- lously considered to create a tribute to the region's tradition of architectural grandeur and cultural traditions. e existing Corinthia port- folio features the flagship Corinthia London, as well as award-winning Corinthia Ho- tels in Budapest, Malta, St Petersburg, Prague, Lisbon, Khartoum and Tripoli. From city-centre hotels to coastal re- sorts, each one is connected by a strong Corinthia philosophy. Inspired by its Mediterranean, family-run heritage, the brand is dedicated to providing uplift- ing moments, unforgettable ex- periences and exquisite service. Corinthia's Area Managing Director Middle East Matthew Dixon said Corinthia Meydan Beach was an exciting addi- tion to the region's hospitality landscape, representing both a landmark milestone for us as a brand, and for Dubai. "e energy, vision and qual- ity of resources assembled for this project by Meydan means that this hotel is in the enviable position of offering the market something fresh and new; an interpretation of heritage, cul- ture and service values that we feel have not yet been bought to the UAE," he said. "We are confident that this property will enhance the Corinthia brand in the region, brilliantly enhancing our existing portfolio." For further information on Corinthia Hotels, visit corin- thia.com Corinthia Hotels set to open first property in Middle East Left: The Corinthia Meydan Beach Dubai as projected and (below) an artist's impression of a Pearl Suite bedroom and the pool area within the ESPALife Spa FROM PAGE 1 But it is not just the influx of Maltese tourists that will boost business in Gozo. Vella said Gozo retreats at this time of the year are also very popular with foreign tourists. "We're almost fully booked for this weekend," she reported. Diane Falzon owner of il-Kartell, a family run restaurant and one of the first in the seaside village of Marsal- forn, had similar things to say. "Easter is the busiest period for us. Usually during the carnival weekend it's more young adults and teenag- ers who flock to the island, this time around we are expecting a lot of fami- lies," Falzon said. e only stumbling block are the natural elements, with Falzon hop- ing the weather will be kind. Busi- ness might be greatly affected by the weather conditions, she added. "Sunday's weather conditions might affect business in general since heavy winds are forecast, however, we've al- ready received many bookings on the innermost part of the restaurant," she said. While no rain is expected for East- er Sunday, strong winds are likely to dominate the day, reaching force 6 or more on the Beaufort scale. Another aspect Gozitans will look out for is the ferry service. One of the ships was temporarily out of service on Tuesday, causing lengthy delays at both ports. By yesterday, the service was work- ing again full throttle with three ships. Joe Borg, president of the Gozo Business Chamber, said the expecta- tion for a good weekend was high and hoped the ferry service would not ex- perience stoppages. "It looks like it is going to be a good weekend for our members. Many peo- ple are crossing over and there is also a varied programme of events. I just hope there will be no disruption in the Gozo ferry service," Borg said, highlighting the island's dependence on ageing ferry ships for its connectivity to Malta. Gozitans hoping weather will be kind over Easter weekend Gozitans are hoping bad weather will not disrupt the ferry service over Easter weekend