Raffles Opens In Makkah, Saudi Arabia
August 18, 2010 - Raffles has arrived to the holiest city on earth for approximately 1.6 billion Muslims: Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Raffles Makkah Palace is located in the spectacular new Abraj Al Bait complex, a seven-tower community directly adjoining the Masjid Al Haram - or Grand Mosque - and the Kaaba. The hotel, located only steps away from the Holy Mosque, is expected to reach new levels of personal service in Saudi Arabia.
Mr. Mohammed Arkobi, Vice President and Managing Director for Fairmont Raffles Hotels International - Makkah, expressed Raffles' pride in opening their first hotel in Saudi Arabia across from the Haram. He stated that this gives Raffles the opportunity to cater to the guests of the Holy City, making it a unique and one-of-a-kind experience.
Raffles Makkah Palace is an extremely discreet yet highly refined residential sanctuary, featuring 213 suites with breathtaking views of the Grand Mosque and Kaaba. Personal butlers exemplify “heartfelt service” as they strive to anticipate residents' needs.
The design of the hotel draws inspiration from the heritage and culture of the Middle East, while keeping with Raffles' style of having each hotel reflect in a way a sense of its destination.
Residents of Raffles Makkah Palace will find a superb selection of international cuisines while they can dine at any of the four restaurants or in the serenity and privacy of their rooms.
The Raffles Creamery presents a mixture of Teppanyaki ice cream customized upon request, located on an open terrace overlooking the Haram. Narjes, a stylish tea salon, offers a collection of colorful tea flavors and roasted coffee from all over the world; whereas Al Majlis serves Middle Eastern cuisine, also on an open terrace, while Al Qasr combines between foreign, Moroccan, Arabic and Indian tastes.
As the Group Director of Communications & Business Development - Khaled Yamak explained, Raffles Makkah Palace is considered a new step in the hospitality sector in Saudi Arabia, with its unique heartfelt service and enchanting accommodation, residents will feel the difference. Yamak also added that diverse and thorough expertise from all over the globe has been combined to provide our guests with unparalleled service.
The hotel also offers a superbly equipped business center and state-of-the-art business rooms, making it a business destination as well.
In addition to its exquisite facilities and coffee sommelier, Raffles Makkah Palace provides unique round-the-clock butler service for every suite. With their expertise and special training, the staff will be able to cater to their residents' every need and differentiate themselves by providing ultimate hospitality service that is attentive, yet subtle “like a gentle breeze”.
Raffles Makkah Palace to open during Ramadan.
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