- Accommodation
Updated Website Caters to Habits of Web Users: Rotana Rotana has launched a new website in a move to attract the growing market for online bookings.
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he portal has been designed with accessibility and usability in mind, according to Rotana, and has also been set up to be navigable by colour blind users. Omer Kaddouri, chief operating officer of Rotana, explained why the new site was important. “We are delighted with the new website as it represents our specialist approach to hospitality and it reflects our long-term strategic plan to become an international leading hospitality group,” he said. “Since we are targeting all types of travellers and visitors, of which 38.5 percent book their rooms online, it is
important for us to communicate and showcase all of the existing and upcoming Rotana properties.” He said the decision to move now had
38.5 percent [of travellers] book their rooms online been made in order to presage Rotana’s planned expansion in the region. “This move also comes in hand with our expansion plan of increasing the Middle East and Africa inventory by 3,257 new rooms in 2011,” he said. Kaddouri pointed out that many modern
consumers use the internet as a research tool, even if they do not book online. This makes an easy to use website, providing good information, a must for modern brands, he said. “As well as aligning the design of the site with our fresh Rotana brand look, we wanted to update its content and functionality to serve our visitors with a comprehensive information source while using enhanced navigation tools,” he said. “As a technology adopter, it is vital that we use technology and the internet to its best advantage, and that Rotana is accurately showcased as a growing international brand representing the region’s hospitality at its best.”
Jumeirah Group in Azerbaijan Jumeirah Group has entered the growing market in Azerbaijan, signing a managing agreement with Azinco Holding Company for a new hotel in the country. The new Venu Bilgah Hotel, Baku is designed as a contemporary lifestyle hotel on the shores of the Caspian Sea; it is set to open in 2011. Reflecting the style of Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai, the property has been designed as a wave-like structure by local architect Nazim Valiev. Venu Bilgah Hotel, Baku will feature 176 sea facing guestrooms and suites, plus traditional Turkish and Finnish bath areas. The complex will also include 14 villas and a conference centre. The new property is the second Venu branded hotel to be rolled out and brings Jumeirah’s global portfolio of properties under development or in operation to 49. Azerbaijan
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DECEMBER 4, 2010