Newly appointed chief executive Omer Kaddouri is continuing his residency with Rotana’s aggressive expansion plans, which are reflected in the development of six new properties, totalling over 1,400 rooms, due to open in 2014. Expanding its global presence, Rotana is not only opening new hotels but expanding into new countries with the opening of the hotel group’s first properties in Oman, Afghanistan and Turkey.

Rotana has its footprint in one of the Middle East’s most promising emerging markets with the opening of its second property in Iraq in Karbala. The Karbala Rayhaan by Rotana is the first five-star hotel to open in Karbala, one of the country’s largest tourist cities, which annually attracts more than 12 million visitors.

Omer Kaddouri, chief operating officer, Rotana Hotels, speaks to Breaking Travel News at World Travel Market 2013 at Excel, London.

Rotana is preparing to welcome guests to its first Oman property, Salalah Rotana Resort, which is scheduled to open on December 25th 2013. Located on the stunning coastline with views overlooking the Arabian Ocean, Salalah Rotana Resort is a luxurious five-star resort boasting 399 rooms and suites, each furnished with modern amenities and conveniences for all guests to enjoy as well as 45 exclusive villas.

The Sultanate of Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, Orascom Hotels and Developments and Rotana, the leading hotel management company in the Middle East and Africa have announced that a new 5-star Rotana Resort will soon join the growing list of premium hospitality destinations in Salalah. The development of the 444-key Salalah Rotana Resort is in line with the Ministry’s strategy to strengthen Oman’s reputation as a luxury hospitality haven and cater to a much broader global tourism market.

Timur Ilgaz, general manager, Amwaj Rotana, speaks to Breaking Travel News at the World Travel Awards Middle East Gala Ceremony at Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa.