AUGUST 7, 2008. Dubai-based hotel brand Jumeirah is continuing its global expansion plans by signing an agreement with Expedia. Under the long-term agreement potential customers will be able to book stays at any Jumeirah resorts via Expedia and hotels.com.

“We have ambitious expansion plans to grow our global portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts with new projects underway in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Aqaba, Doha, Phuket, Shanghai, Mallorca, London, Argentina and elsewhere around the world,” said Apo Demirtas, chief sales and marketing officer, Jumeirah Group. “Expedia is an ideal partner to help us reach millions of travellers worldwide and enhance our global distribution strategy.”

The agreement provides Jumeirah Group access to Expedia’s global marketplace, as well as its online travel marketing and distribution expertise, and targeted merchandising opportunities to reach travellers throughout Europe, Asia and North America.

“This partnership is strategic to both Jumeirah and Expedia, as we continue to expand our global footprints, respectively,” said Murad Hajeebhoy, vice president of market management, Expedia EMEA. “Jumeirah and Expedia share a commitment to delivering travellers excellent service, and we’re pleased to help Jumeirah meet its overall business objectives.”

Jumeirah hotels will access Expedia’s global online travel marketplace through Expedia®Connect, Expedia’s industry leading direct connection solution for chain hotels. In turn, Expedia customers can book accommodation at Jumeirah Group’s luxurious hotels and resorts worldwide, including the well-known Jumeirah Essex House in New York, and the world’s most luxurious hotel Burj Al Arab in Dubai.