JW Marriott Marquis became the flag-ship property in the Middle East when it opened earlier this year

Together with the Marriott International, 2013 first quarter results, which reported a 31 per cent increase compared to first quarter 2012, the company has announced an 11.2 per cent increase in RevPAR figures across the Middle East and Africa for first quarter compared to the same period in 2012.

Driven predominantly by a 4.1 per cent growth in first quarter occupancy for the region, the company’s quarterly results clearly demonstrate global traveller’s desire to stay at Marriott International properties, comprising some of the world’s strongest and most respected brands.

Marriott International has played a significant role in fuelling regional travel – the number of visitors expected to rise from over 70 million in 2011 to 195 million by 2030.

New figures that highlight Marriott International’s remarkable regional development with plans to double its footprint in the Middle East and Africa by 2017, which currently has 45 announced hotels with 10,875 rooms due to join regional portfolio by 2018

Commenting on the company’s positive first quarter results, Alex Kyriakidis, president and managing director of Marriott International, Middle East & Africa, said: “These remarkable results clearly re-emphasise Marriott International’s commitment to the Middle East and Africa region, continuing to contribute to the ongoing growth of the region’s hospitality industry.

“Our system continues to improve, and with our focus on the company’s flagship brand, Marriott Hotels and Resorts, as well as the extended stay sector and mobile technology, there is a lot more to come in 2013.

“Marriott International will be perfectly placed to accommodate the increasing number of visitors to the region.”

Marriott International’s portfolio in the Middle East and Africa currently comprises 43 properties in 12 countries, offering 12,919 rooms across seven lodging brands.

It is set to expand by 45properties and 10,875 rooms by 2018.