Hotel developments and product flexibility pushes resort upmarket

Deluxe update

Hotel developments and product flexibility pushes resort upmarket

ARABIAN massage tents overlooking the Red Sea, milk baths and low-calorie cuisine are not images usually associated with Sharm el Sheikh – the traditional stomping ground of two, three and four-star Red Sea package-tourists.

But the arrival of the five-star deluxe Ritz-Carlton, following the opening of a Hyatt Regency in January, could herald a sea change in the Sinai’s price-sensitive image.

Finishing touches

The new five-star Mövenpick Golf Hotel and Resort has just completed its finishing touches and the five-star 320-room Radisson SAS Golden Resort is due to open in Sharm el Sheikh in March. The Four Seasons also plans to open next year.

Located on a secluded stretch of beach about 10 minutes from Sharm el Sheikh’s tourist centre, Na’ama Bay, the Ritz-Carlton has 307 guest rooms including 78 suites.

Besides tennis courts, a kids’ club, private beach coves, five restaurants and a cigar divan, it offers an extensive full service spa and fitness centre.

Package deals

Meeting, spa, golf and honeymoon packages are available.

Billing itself as an oasis in the desert and already regarded as one of Egypt’s most exclusive hotels, the five-star deluxe Ritz-Carlton is hoping to attract conference clients as well as the well heeled leisure travel market clients.

The resort has good potential as a five-star pampering and Red Sea diving complement to a classic week’s Nile Cruise or cultural sightseeing holiday in Cairo, Aswan or Luxor.

“With its close proximity to the UK, it’s an ideal choice for honeymoons, conference and incentive groups or a luxury break from city life,” said a spokeswoman.

“But rates are higher than the norm in what is traditionally a price-driven destination.”

Mövenpick: work on the five-star resort has just finished

Entrance to luxury: the Ritz-Carlton offers meeting, spa, golf and honeymoon packages