Marriott International (NYSE/MAR) has been named the 317-room former Sheraton Gulf Hotel in Doha, Qatar, effective today. The hotel will be renamed the Doha Marriott Gulf Hotel. An extensive renovation program is currently underway involving all public space, guest rooms, systems and amenities and is scheduled to be comleted in 2001.
Owned by the Qatar National Hotels Company, the Doha Marriott Gulf Hotel is located on the eastern shore of Doha Bay overlooking the Doha marina. The hotel is in close proximity to Doha International Airport and the city`s primary commercial and retail district.

“We are pleased to welcome this outstanding property to our portfolio of hotels in the Middle East region,” said Ed Fuller, president and managing director of Marriott`s international operations. “Qatar is a growing business and tourist destination. We are confident that the strength of our global distribution system will help generate a steady flow of travelers to the hotel.”

“We are delighted that Marriott will be managing this hotel,” said His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah Bin Ahmed Al Thanj, chairman of Qatar National Hotels. “Marriott is one of the world`s best known and most experienced hotel management companies. We believe Marriott will deliver a high quality service to customers.”

For dining and entertainment, the Doha Marriott Gulf Hotel will have nine restaurants and lounges, including a lobby lounge, a Viennese Cafe, a themed, a garden cafe, a restaurant at the marina and four additional outlets.

Recreational amenities include a health club and an outdoor swimming pool. In addition, guests can enjoy the hotel`s private gardens and beach as well as the marina.

For business travelers, the Doha Marriott Gulf Hotel will feature a business center, an executive lounge and an airline/car rental/tour desk. Other amenities include 24-hour room service, mini bar, laundry/valet and parking.

For social events and conferences, the hotel has a newly renovated 5,494 square foot ballroom and meeting rooms totaling 8,300 square feet.

Marriott is currently represented in the Middle East by 20 properties in nine countries offering more than 6,144 rooms. Currently under development and scheduled to open during the next two years are the following properties.

- 150-room Madinah Marriott Hotel
- 212-room Jordan Valley Marriott Resort at the Dead Sea
- 355-room J W Marriott Resort Mirage City
- 279-room J W Marriott Hotel Abu Dhabi
- 160-room Courtyard by Marriott Beirut Galaxy Hotel

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