Rotana announces the opening of Afamia Rotana Resort, its first 5 star property in Latakia, the resort destination of Syria.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Imad Elias, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of Rotana said: "We are very proud to be managing this landmark property that is our first 5 star resort to open in Syria. The Afamia Rotana Resort team, headed by the General Manager Safwan Khayat, has been working hand in hand with the owner and Rotana Corporate Office to ensure all areas of the opening are perfected ".

Afamia Rotana Resort is located at the crossroad of the Near East, on a peninsula, 2 km from Latakia city centre and has an exceptional beach front, with an easy distance of Syria's historical sites including Ugarit Canaaite, seaport, Crusaders forts and castles and ancient Roman vestiges.

The 5 star Afamia Rotana Resort offers 246 guestrooms including one, two and three bedroom suites, with stunning views of the beach, along with 14 beach cabins which makes it an ideal destination for leisure and business travellers alike. Features and amenities include private balcony or terrace, mini bar, IDD, modern bathroom and shower, guest toilet, hairdryer, TV with a wide variety of international satellite channels, individually controlled A/C and in-room safe.

Commenting on the opening, Mr. Khayat said: "I am glad to be part of the opening team of this magnificent property.  It truly is an exclusive ocean front resort catering to those who seek a greater level of relaxation and comfort. It is the resort's ability to accommodate both leisure guests and MICE business, from not just the region but from around the world, in consummate style and comfort, which will ensure our dedication to making Afamia Rotana Resort the number one holiday destination".

The resort offers meeting and event facilities to host annual conferences and seminars, as well as launch of new products. Whether it is a one-day meeting or a weekend seminar, the resort's acclaimed individualized service, attention to detail and superior accommodation will ensure a meeting experience that is flawless, productive and unforgettable. A conference hall with foyer is available with the capacity for up to 350 persons and private meeting rooms in addition to a state of the art ballroom offering the latest in audio visual equipment with capacity of 500 persons. All apartments accommodate state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and secretarial service is also in hand.

The resort also boasts magnificent recreational facilities and can organize creative team challenges and outdoor adventures. There are facilities for outdoor conferencing and banqueting service for gala dinners, cocktail parties and wedding receptions.

Afamia Rotana Resort also features a state-of-the-art bodylines health & fitness centre with the latest in cardio and strength equipment as well as a temperature controlled indoor swimming pool, steam room and sauna. A private sandy beach with a marina, 2 outdoor swimming pools, tennis court and a children's playground club.

As for the Food & Beverage venues, Afamia Rotana Resort offers guests, Al Manara - the all day dining restaurant serving authentic cuisine from around the world. Moodz - a stylish venue featuring a range of hand-selected music that brings that real luxurious lounge bar feeling. Aquarius - by the pool side, offering refreshing drinks and cocktails accompanied by a selection of delicious and light snacks. Café blue - located in the main lobby and serving drinks with a wide selection tea, coffee and light snacks. Breeze - adjacent to the beach terrace and an ideal place for a shisha escape.

Born in Syria, Safwan Khayat completed a BA in Business and Hotel management from Huston University in USA. Safwan is no stranger to Rotana; he joined Al Maha Rotana suites Abu Dhabi, which has been rebranded recently to Al Maha Arjaan, back in 2002 as Executive Assistant Manager. He held the position of General Manager at Queen Center Arjaan Damascus from 2004 till now. He has gained more than 25 years experience in the international hotel industry.