Accor, one of the world’s largest hotel and services groups, has confirmed its Middle East strategy for the next three years at Arabian Travel Market with the company expected to increase its operations from 18 to 58 hotels by the end of 2009.

The number of new properties set to open over the next 36 months will increase total capacity from 3,527 to 16,239 keys, representing a growth of 360% in 3 years across Accor’s Middle East portfolio in the GCC, Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Yemen.

Speaking at a press conference, Accor management outlined the regional strategy for 2006–2009. The comprehensive plan incorporates 16 new property contracts currently under final contract negotiation. Together with the 18 existing properties and 24 hotels currently under construction, this will bring their product portfolio to 58 hotels by 2009.

Christophe Landais, Managing Director for Accor Middle East said: “Our objective is to be the leading hotel group in the region to offer a truly diversified portfolio of hotel brands. With the support of our regional partners and investors, we are delighted to be able to announce the commitment of major new projects over the next three years across the Sofitel, Novotel, Ibis, Mercure and Suite hotel brands.