Accor to launch floating hotel in Dubai
Image by Accor
The hospitality group is adding Queen Elizabeth 2 to its portfolio as Dubai’s first and only floating hotel.
The cruise ship will now undergo a renovation and upgrade before becoming a part of Accor’s MGallery Hotel Collection.
A new partnership
Operated by Accor from this month, Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) is soon to become a new landmark property for Dubai and the MGallery brand.
Accor is collaborating on this project with the boutique private equity firm, Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) Investments LLC. This is a part of the investment firm’s endeavour to expand its commercial portfolio while also aiming for continuous improvement.
“We are very excited to partner with Accor on this project,” said Saeed Al-Bannai, CEO of PCFC Investment. “We trust the group’s expertise will elevate the QE2 to a new era of operations.”
“The Queen Elizabeth 2 as we know her, has made history and we are confident that Accor will keep her legacy alive while her strong heritage and notoriety will remain a destination in itself, where guests and visitors alike can enjoy a unique experience.”
A transformation and rebrand
The QE2 is located in Dubai’s Port Rashid, with close proximity to Sheikh Zayed Road providing easy access to the city’s attractions. Dubai International Airport, Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and La Mer Beach are all just a 20-minute journey away.
On officially becoming the new MGallery Queen Elizabeth 2, this property will be home to 447 guest rooms along with nine restaurants and bars, six retail outlets, a swimming pool, gym, 10 meeting rooms and 5,620 sq m of outdoor event space.
“This is a great opportunity for Accor to expand its footprint in the UAE with the introduction of a unique project which brings diversity to the portfolio, while expanding the MGallery brand presence in the city,” said Mark Willis, CEO of Accor India, Middle East, Africa and Turkey.
“Not only are we in charge of the only floating hotel in Dubai, but we are also contributing to the Dubai Urban Master plan 2049, with the aim to map out the path for a sustainable urban development while increasing the city’s attractiveness as a global destination.”
“We are confident that once finalised, the MGallery Queen Elizabeth 2 will become a true must-visit attraction, sharing her own stories with her guests while offering a truly unforgettable experience on-board,” he concluded.
Accor currently operates 62 properties in the UAE with another 20 in the pipeline.
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