Top ten hotel openings in the Middle East 2010 (#3)

easyHotel Jebel Ali – Marking the entry of the easyHotel brand to the Middle East, this property is located inside the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) secure compound with access from Sheikh Zayed Road. It symbolises the trend of budget properties opening in the emirate of Dubai as the city, known for its love of all things five-star, looks to diversify its offering. While the pipeline is still dominated by the upper-scale properties, the emergence of hotels such as easyHotel, CityMax and Premier Inn, as well as ibis, signals the arrival of the much-needed budget sector. This 216-room property boasts air conditioning in all bedrooms alongside wireless internet access and work desk space. Remember though that the business model for these hotels is you pay for any extra; Wi-Fi internet access – AED 30 for 24 hours; flat screen TV – AED 30 for 24 hours; extra towels available – AED 5 per towel; housekeeping service available at AED 60 for a full room clean; luggage storage – AED 1 per locker per hour; and secure car parking available on-site – AED 10 per car per night. You won’t see brand creep from these hotels and independents will do well to keep up as the sector diversifies. FAST FACT: Double rooms went on sale at only AED 99.  Click here for full article and photos from Arabian Business.com….