Hilton Worldwide signed an agreement to convert the Dubai hotel property, The Royal Ascot, into a new DoubleTree by Hilton hotel, the second DoubleTree branded property planned for the city and the third for the UAE.

Following a re-branding to DoubleTree by Hilton Bur Dubai in January 2013, the 174-room property will undergo a comprehensive two-year refurbishment and upgrading programme with an expected completion date of January 2015.

Rudi Jagersbacher, area president, Hilton Worldwide, Middle East & Africa said: “I’m delighted that today’s announcement brings us closer to our goal of establishing five of the company’s brands into the UAE local market within the next two years.  Dubai’s continued status as a main regional economic hub for the Middle East gives us confidence to launch new brands in the city and provide more options for the growing number of visitors.”

Located within the city’s lively and historic area of Bur Dubai, the DoubleTree by Hilton Bur Dubai should prove to be a major attraction for both leisure and commercial travellers.  Conveniently well placed near to Dubai’s main port, as well as the city’s diplomatic district, the hotel will appeal to business guests while leisure tourists will enjoy the easy access to Dubai’s world famous Dubai Creek, with its bustling streets filled with souks, historic buildings and museums.

Rob Palleschi, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton said: “DoubleTree by Hilton Bur Dubai is an inspiring addition to our growing UAE hotel collection and will perfectly complement our DoubleTree property in Ras Al Khaimah as well as DoubleTree by Hilton Al Barsha Hotel & Residence which is due to open at the end of this year.  The brand is growing a strong portfolio of fine Middle East hotels with a reputation for providing upscale, quality amenities and services together with a truly rewarding guest experience.”

DoubleTree by Hilton Bur Dubai will boast a number of new quality business and leisure facilities including a conference hall, four meeting rooms, a business centre as well as a swimming pool plus health club and spa. 

Guests at DoubleTree by Hilton Bur Dubai will benefit from the characteristic qualities found at a fast-growing collection of more than 300 DoubleTree by Hilton hotels and resorts in more than 25 countries, including the warm welcome of the brand’s legendary chocolate chip cookie presented to every guest upon check-in; an array of upscale amenities and guest services; the rewards of the Hilton HHonors guest loyalty programme; and a unique and caring team member commitment to the local community.

Bader Mohamed Yousef Bukhamas, Chairman, Khamas Group of Investment Companies said: “We are delighted to partner with Hilton Worldwide, our first and a natural choice for this project, and look forward to a long and successful relationship.”

Pawan Kachroo, Managing Director, Khamas Hospitality added: “This is a compelling partnership with a company that matches our ambition to provide top quality facilities and the highest levels of service.”