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Hilton Hotels unveils four new properties

DUBAI — Hilton Hotels in Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon has revealed that its four new properties under development will open within the next two years. This follows a successful Q1 performance by its 19-strong Egypt portfolio with average occupancies in the high 70s.

While Hilton's first Lebanon property in Beirut is set to open later this year with 162 rooms, the new-look Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa in Egypt will re-open in Q1 next year (2008) with 235 rooms. Further down the line, Hilton will make its foray into Jordan with Hilton Amman and Hilton Tala Bay Aqaba opening in Q1 and Q2 2009 respectively. Simon Hasdell, Vice-President Operations, Hilton Hotels, Egypt, Lebanon & Jordan said, "we are exploring a number of other opportunities as well, and will disclose details as soon as agreements are signed. Our priority is also to our current portfolio to ensure the highest standards of quality in line with Hilton brand standards worldwide." Hilton has a total signed pipeline of 11 properties in the Middle East, and a development goal of an additional 20 new signings over the next five years.

Meanwhile, Hilton Egypt saw revenues rise eight per cent year on year for Q1, RevPAR (revenue per available room) increased by ten per cent, and EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortization) by 20 per cent — in comparison to 2006.

"Our four Cairo properties contribute significantly to the region's financial results. Our regional flagship the Nile Hilton, the first international hotel to open in the Middle East nearly 50 years ago, remains the market leader with an increase in MPI (market penetration index) of nearly three per cent for Q1 this year in comparison with the same period last year."