Having had signed an agreement earlier this month with Al Dana Development LLC, Cristal Hotels and Resorts has announced its debut in Qatar with the opening of their second international branch office – Cristal Hotels and Resorts Qatar.

Cristal Hotels and Resorts Qatar is the second branch office to open following the Lebanon Office that opened in February 2012. Cristal Group is set to follow its aggressive expansion plan with an aim to increase their portfolio and brand presence in the region.

According to Cristal Hotels and Resorts, Qatar’s economy progresses and diversifies. And there are ample opportunities provided for growth and investment. Qatar Airways, the country’s national airline, is one of the world’s fastest growing carriers with its aircraft fleet of approximately 99 and continuing to grow. Doha International Airport offers top-level service and security to visitors from around the world, and the recently completed renovations to the multi-million dollar terminal.

In line with this new development, president and CEO, Cristal Hotels and Resorts, Peter Blackburn commented: “Qatar economy has witnessed an impressive growth in the last eight years. Today it ranks first in Economy Competiveness within the Middle East and 26th globally based on the recent report of the World Economic Forum.

“As a country Qatar has become one of the key markets for tourism and hospitality industry. And we believe there is still a great potential for the further growth for both inbound and outbound travel. Our new base in Qatar will allow us to get even closer to the region’s traveller and understand their needs which will translate into an even better hotel product that we will make available to our clients.”

Cristal Hotels and Resorts Qatar branch office will be located in Doha and overlooking all the development and operations of the upcoming hotels. It is expected to bring a total of three new properties to the company’s portfolio in the next five years with the first hotel expected to be opened in 2013.

“With numerous world class events already attracting MICE business, as well as leisure travellers, we are confident that our expansion plans will enrich our portfolio further with exciting new properties,” added Blackburn.

“Qatar’s strategic location, its wealth in resources and its growing GDP are only confirmation of the positive business outlook in this key market. With our already strong presence in the UAE hospitality market, we positively look ahead at Qatar and the great prospects it presents within the lodging and tourism industry.”