Kuwait is one of the more low-key Arabian Gulf nations, but that’s not to say it’s lacking as an enchanting holiday destination. With its pristine sandy beaches, luxurious resorts and high-end shops, Kuwait is quickly emerging as one of the most covetable Middle Eastern holiday hotspots. The country launched a five-year plan for tourism last year, designed to attract more international visitors. Tourism is a vital part of the local government’s plan to transform this peaceful corner of the Middle East into a commercial and financial centre, unrivalled in the region.
With this in mind, plans are afoot to develop the country’s exhibition and events sectors, in the hopes of enticing corporate travelers and promoting the country as a viable business destination. These developments are creating new opportunities for established hospitality institutions such as the Hilton Kuwait Resort. Already a sought-after base for visitors in the country for tourism or business, the hotel is taking this opportunity to modernise and expand their services.
Ziad Tantawi, General Manager of the Hilton Kuwait Resort, insists the upgrade will ensure the hotel “keeps up the good quality services and meets all guests’ needs and requirements” and that the new facilities will play an important role in “promoting the resort as a leisure destination for locals and GCC visitors”.
A mile of sandy beaches
The Hilton Kuwait Resort boasts an exclusive private beach with soft white sand, where visitors can “soak up the sun, unwind and indulge their senses,” says Tantawi. “The hotel’s modern architecture is designed to take full advantage of the views of the clear, aquamarine sea and the 1.75km of private beachfront, where waiters are on hand to bring refreshments and direct you to your sun-lounger.” And for ocean-shy guests the day-spa at the Hilton Kuwait Resort is unique with a state-of-the-art aquamedic pool, with massage jets, jacuzzi, whirlpool and aquabeds. Guests also have full use of the steam rooms and sauna.
The Hilton Kuwait Resort combines the best leisure facilities with a top business centre. “The hotel is only a 20-minute drive from the Kuwait International Airport,” explains Tantawi. “And we offer free high-speed internet in all rooms and public areas.” In all, there are 11 meeting rooms and the exquisite Al Dorra Ballroom, which can host up to 1,250 people. When it comes to business travel and events, Tantawi is unequivocal: “We promote the best and most elegant venues for conference and events of different sizes, and create special meeting packages to attract business guests.”
Exclusive offerings
The hotel also offers exclusive facilities for its long-staying guests, including deluxe studio rooms with seating and dining areas, and even a garden chalet. An exclusive presidential villa gives easy access to the sea, and boasts a full kitchen, a dining area, a living room and complimentary breakfast. “The spacious chalet, in cool, calm tones has two bedrooms, second bathroom and a private terrace opening onto the garden,” says Tantawi. But the real crowning glory is the exclusive Royal Villa, says the General Manager. Large enough for eight adults, it boasts floor to ceiling windows, and a breathtaking sea view.
And the hotel will continue working hard to attract these desirable business guests in 2014, mostly through promotions and offers. “For 2014 we are preparing an extensive plan that will attract different segments and will serve all guests’ needs in Kuwait, GCC and internationally – whether for business or leisure,” says Tantawi. There will be “attractive promotions and packages for local guests and GCC, and creative promotional offers related to the hotel food and beverage that will surely cater for many tastes.”
