French hospitality group Accor has announced plans for a new Grand Mercure hotel in Dubai, further expanding its presence in the UAE. The hotel will be a rebranding of the existing Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay, undertaken in partnership with Gulf Hotels Group.
The move is part of Accor’s strategy to grow its premium brands and deepen its relationship with Gulf Hotels Group, a major player in the Middle Eastern hospitality sector. The rebranded Grand Mercure Dubai Downtown will benefit from Accor’s global reach and loyalty program, combined with Gulf Hotels Group’s local expertise.
Ahmed Janahi, Group Chief Executive Office of Gulf Hotels Group, said of the partnership: “This partnership with Accor is a natural evolution for Gulf Court Hotel Business Bay. While we have successfully managed the property for several years, rebranding under the Grand Mercure name allows us to enhance the hotel’s standing in Dubai’s competitive market. The combination of Gulf Hotels Group’s operational excellence and Accor’s global systems and loyalty program offers significant benefits for our guests.”
Scheduled to open in 2025 following a refurbishment, the hotel will embody the Grand Mercure brand’s signature blend of modern design and local cultural touches. It will offer 270 rooms and suites, a swimming pool, spa, gym, and a range of dining venues.
Duncan O’Rourke, Chief Executive Officer Premium, Midscale & Economy Division Middle East, Africa & Asia Pacific for Accor, said: “We are delighted to announce the signing of the Grand Mercure Dubai Downtown, a project that cements our continued growth in the premium sector. The brand has been operating for over 20 years and brings something unique to each destination, and we are excited to see it come to life in one of Dubai’s most vibrant districts. The project also marks our growing relationship with Gulf Hotels, a trusted partner of Accor in the region.”
The Grand Mercure Dubai Downtown will be the latest addition to Accor’s extensive network in the region, which currently comprises over 280 properties.