Strengthening its position across the Middle East and Africa as the hospitality company of choice, Marriott International announced 14 new signings at the 2014 Annual Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC). The new properties will see the organization expand its regional footprint in the UAE, and Saudi Arabia spanning several brands including Marriott Hotels, Renaissance Hotels and Residence Inn by Marriott to name a few.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will see a steady growth in its travel and tourism industry with almost SAR33.5 billion to be invested in the sector until 2020, according to experts attending the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference. Experts will gather to discuss the prospects of Saudi Arabia’s travel and tourism sector as well as analyse the trends that will have an impact on its ability to attract more tourists.

The Arabian Hotel Investment Conference, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chief executive of Emirates, is gearing up for its annual two day programme from May 4th at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. More than 550 delegates have registered for this year’s event and here Phil Blizzard speaks to organiser Jonathan Worsley, chairman of Bench Events, about what they can expect from AHIC 2104.

Officials at the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference have released the provisional agenda ahead of the 2013 event. AHIC officials were in Riyadh last week for the first of a series of Regional Briefings scheduled to take place in the build up to the event.

BTN talks to Elizabeth Randall, Managing Director, STR Global at Arabain Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) 2012

BTN talks to BTN talks to Michael Scully, Managing Director - Hospitality, Seven Tides at Arabain Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) 2012