Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has partnered with wasl hospitality & leisure to launch the Aloft and Element brands in Dubai.
As part of the deal, the 165-room Aloft Dubai Raffa and 96-room Element Dubai Raffa will be developed, which are expected to be opened in 2018.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Europe, Africa and Middle East president Michael Wale said: "With the Dubai Government promoting mid-scale hotel development ahead of the Dubai World Expo 2020, we believe the timing is right to widen the reach of our signature Aloft and Element experiences, which are revolutionising the hospitality industry by delivering a modern, urban-style experience at an affordable price."
The properties being constructed simultaneously will be close to the new development at Port Rashid, Dubai Maritime City, and provide convenient access to Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai’s traditional commercial centre.
Aloft Raffa will include W XYZ Bar and the grab and go eatery, Re:fuel by Aloft, in addition to the fitness centre Re:charge and an outdoor Splash pool.
The facilities being provided in Aloft Raffa will be accessible to guests of Element Raffa, according to Starwood.
wasl Asset Management Group CEO Hesham Abdullah Al Qassim said: "Bringing the Aloft and Element brands to Dubai for the first time is the latest initiative in the long and fruitful relationship that wasl has enjoyed with Starwood Hotels & Resorts."
Starwood currently operates around 50 hotels and resorts under eight brands in the Middle East, and will be home to all of its nine brands, with the launch of both brands.
In addition, the group is planning to expand its portfolio in the region, with the opening of about 35 hotels by 2017.