Luxury hotel eyes Gulf cities for expansion

Luxury hotel group Langham is looking to bring its brands to the Gulf region, a senior official has said. Langham Hospitality Group is looking to expand its luxury brands and double its hotel portfolio globally within the next few years. While its focus is primarily in Asia - with China and India - earmarked for "strong growth", the company is also targeting the Gulf, Andrew Jessop, vice president of development (Worldwide) at Langham said in comments published by Hotelnewsnow.com. Jessop also said its parent company, Great Eagle, will continue to make strategic acquisitions in world cities from time to time. Key targets outside of the Asia/Pacific region include Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Doha, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Beirut, he was quoted as saying. Last year, Langham Hospitality Group appointed Sam-Erik Ruttmann as vice president – development (Middle East) as it continues its drive for growth along the "New Silk Road" of China, India and the Middle East. In October 2010, Langham announced plans for the first Langham Place in Doha, slated to open in late 2012 but it is no longer on the company's list of hotel projects on its website. Langham Hospitality comprises four luxury brands - The Langham, Langham Place, Eaton and 88 Xintiandi. The company’s flagship Langham brand saw its first property open in London in 1865. Langham Hotels International is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Great Eagle Holdings and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. From / Arabian Business