ACCOMMODATION

Close on the heels of the launch of the world's first Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa, Emaar Properties, the developer of the mixed-use tower, has handed over homes to buyers of Armani Residences, who now have the world's most prestigious address.

Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani categorically denies press reports that the luxury hotel brand is planning to develop a hotel in Russia's Caucasus region, a company statement said on Monday. The Armani group opened its first 160-room luxury hotel in April in 2010 in Dubai in the highest tower in the world, Bourj Khalifa, and plans to open similar developments in other countries.

“It is a true honour to be awarded the Green Globe Certification for the second consecutive time, one of the most prominent recognitions in the industry,” said Michael Sorgenfrey, General Manager at The Palace Downtown Dubai. “The certification is a testament to The Palace Downtown Dubai’s efforts to promote sustainability across all facets of the hotel’s operations.

One of five hotels operated in Dubai by The Address group, The Palace perches on the edge of the surreally blue Dubai Lake (featuring a dancing fountain) with views of the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. The hotel is at the heart of Dubai's Downtown precinct, linked to the Souk al-Bahar, allowing guests to stroll to restaurants, cafes and the 1200 shops of Dubai Mall.

Armani Ristorante draws on the rich gastronomic traditions of authentic Italian cuisine. The menu offers a mix of traditional and modern dishes that takes the diner in an adventure of exploring new horizons. The food is served in an attractive, elegant and mouthwatering fashion.

One inevitable area of travel exhibitions and conferences is that many organisations use the occasion to throw out some fascinating statistics and trends. Industry will start to see co-branded hotels for signature hotels – hypothetical example, Armani Hotel in Dubai or a Rough Guide Intercontinental.

Dubai is the first in a series of at least 10 Armani Hotels which will pop up around the world’s holiday destinations, including Milan, Marrakech, New York, Tokyo, Shanghai and London where “Armani will share his dream” . And the pocket burn is in line with the brand’s image. The tariff for a night stay starts at AED 2800 (Rs 34,163) plus tax and climbs up to AED 9000 (Rs 1,09,840) for a larger suite.

Fino International is nearing the end of its mammoth 33 month project to fit out the Burj Khalifa’s corporate offices, public lobby and Armani Hotel & Residences.

Accor has opened its third Sofitel hotel in Dubai today, located in the shadow of Burj Khalifa, and close to Dubai Mall and the city’s financial district.

When the timeless allure of famed Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani's understated elegance in haute couture is transferred to the interiors of a hotel, you can be assured that the results will be stunning. His foray into accommodation design was at the Armani Hotel in Dubai. Now he returns to his homeland to open the Armani Hotel in Milan.