Latest updates
India Outbound
March-April 2014
Sofitel Dubai first Green Globe certified Accor property
Following an extensive sustainability audit, the Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa has been awarded the prestigious Green Globe certification, with a score of 90 per cent. This five star, 361 rooms and 182 serviced apartments, Polynesian island themed resort is the first to be Green Globe certified on Palm Jumeirah, and is the first within the Accor group.
“We are very proud to receive Green Globe Certification, which is the result of many months of preparation and hard work by the management team and all members of staff, highlighting our true commitment towards sustainability. We will continue reducing our impact on the environment and creating a better workplace,” said Christophe Schnyder, General Manager, Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa.
Ranging from solar panels, a stateof- the-art weather control system, to a comprehensive waste separation program, the hotel has key energy efficient systems incorporated in its original design, clearly indicating a commitment to sustainability since its opening in July 2013. As a permanent “green” reminder to guests and staff alike, the hotel has covered parts of the interior with a unique collection of 24 vertical gardens with 170 different types of plants. The “green wall” was designed by renowned French botanical expert Patrick Blanc, and covers 600 square meters. “It seems very appropriate that a French luxury hotel brand should embrace sustainability with such a chic display,” added Schnyder.
Sheraton to open 35 new hotels in 12 months
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide recently announced the opening of 35 new Sheraton Hotels over the next 12 months. Nearly half of the new Sheraton hotels will open in China, widening Starwood’s lead as the largest upper-upscale global hotel operator in Asia Pacific. Enhancing its reputation as a global powerhouse, Sheraton will also enter numerous new markets, including Samoa, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan, and return to Iraq.
“Sheraton continues to grow at a phenomenal pace by leveraging its firstmover advantage in markets across the globe,” said Hoyt Harper, Global Brand Leader for Sheraton Hotels & Resorts. “Asia Pacific continues to drive the brand’s future pipeline growth, but we are also experiencing strong demand in other emerging markets including Eastern Europe and the Middle East. In addition, the resounding success of our brand-wide revitalisation and multi-billion dollar investment to enhance the brand over the past several years has led to a growing number of conversion opportunities in more mature markets.”
