Le Meridien Dubai unveils new array of business and leisure facilities in run up to Dubai 2003

As Dubai prepares to host one of the biggest and most significant global events ever to be held in the region - Dubai 2003 - The Annual Meeting of the Boards of Governors of the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund. Le Meridien Dubai has unveiled an array of business and leisure facilities, aimed at the high-profile turnout of visitors that the event is expected to generate.

In keeping with the exacting requirements of business travellers, the hotel has introduced wireless connectivity at various key locations in the hotel for the convenience of delegates. Internet Hot Spots have been installed in the hotel lobby, deluxe reception and the Royal Club reception to further complement in-room high-speed Internet access.

Le Meridien Dubai has also completed a major refurbishment initiative of the business centre and of key Food & Beverage outlets, including the Pearl Bar located in the lobby, as well as the popular Seafood Market restaurant.

Shujaat Yar, Director Business Development, Le Meridien Dubai, said: "We have already begun playing host to visitors from all over the world, associated with Dubai 2003, and are currently operating at 100 per cent occupancy levels. We expect these trends to continue over the next twenty days or so, in the run up to the event, as also during the actual event.

"The hospitality industry in the UAE has been gearing up for Dubai 2003 ever since it was first announced in 1999. According to official estimates, there will be a direct investment boost to the tourism industry of $45 million, due to this increase in visitors through spending on hotels, restaurants and other areas during Dubai 2003. Hundreds of millions of dollars worth of business is expected to be generated from the ripple effect of these meetings.

"There is also bound to be a significant number of repeat visitors, resulting in an increased global awareness of Dubai, which has over the past few years become a force to reckon with in the MICE market. As one of the pioneering hotels in the UAE, Le Meridien Dubai has played a pivotal role in developing the hospitality sector of the country. We have gone to great lengths to complement this momentous occasion, and make the stay of visitors to the event all the more memorable," he added.

Commenting on the culinary calendar at the hotel for Dubai 2003, Stephane Blanc, Director Operations of Le Meridien Dubai, said: "Special menus have been prepared to cater to the diverse visitor turn-out expected during Dubai 2003. Guest chefs from around the world are also being flown in for the event. With the fully refurbished Pearl Bar now functional, guests may add sparkle to their dessert with the new drink and desert menu that has been created to delight the senses.

"Philippe Gavreau, the 2 star Michelin chef is back at Café Chic, with the promise of Mediterranean indulgence at its best. This is in addition to exciting promotions at other restaurants in the hotel as well in the Meridien Village," he added.