Meliá Hotels has begun its expansion into the Arab States of the Gulf by announcing the opening of its Meliá Hotels & Resorts brand's first property, Meliá Dubai.

Located in the heart of traditional Bur Dubai, the hotel, designed by innovative renowned architect Marco Mangili, is situated within easy reach of Dubai's main shopping and commercial districts and only 10 minutes away from Dubai International Airport. Meliá Dubai is an ideal place for both business and leisure travellers. General Manager Gilles Longuet commented, "We are delighted to open the first Spanish hotel in the Middle East. Over time, the two ancient cultures of Arabic and Spanish have traded language, architecture and heritage. As Meliá opens its doors in the heart of historic Dubai, Spanish hospitality comes to the Middle East. In a sense, Meliá Dubai is home."

Classic elegance with modern contemporary European design is reflected across all 164 guestrooms and suites, combining refined style with ultimate comfort.  Warm colours, luxurious fabrics and tastefully selected furniture have been united to create a soothing atmosphere. Spacious guest rooms feature well-appointed and modern designed bathrooms dedicated to self pampering with rain showers and separate signature bathtubs. Throughout the guest experience at Meliá Dubai, the brand's signature passion for service culture of hospitality will bring a new dimension of friendly service and Spanish flair to Dubai.

Meliá Dubai debuts with the eagerly anticipated Titanic by Marco Pierre White. The restaurant offers European signature dishes by British Master Chef Marco Pierre White. Dishes include the mouth watering starters of Carpaccio of Scallops with fresh ginger and coriander and Chilled Andalucian soup with langoustines. For mains Pierre White has fashioned a Magret of Duck Marco Polo with white peaches and sauternes roasting juices, Roast rack of lamb à la Dijonnaise with a mustard and herb crust and finally for dessert a Hot Raspberry Soufflé.

Marco Pierre White noted, "I am very excited to be working with Meliá Hotels International, a company that has such a rich culinary history.  I believe that in Meliá Dubai I have found a hotel that holds the same high standards as I do in the restaurant."

To compliment the opening of Titanic, Executive Chef, Fredric Kulczak will open the Spanish inspired all day dining restaurant Azalya, offering buffet and a la carte dishes.

The second phase of openings at Meliá Dubai will see a number of exciting additions to the hotel including the introduction of their signature spa concept – Yhi Spa, Signature By Sanjeev Kapoor, the Indian Master Chef's first UAE restaurant and "The Level" an exclusive selection of rooms and suites offering highly personalised services and a private lounge with all-day chefs selection and selected beverages. Finally, Mansion nightclub will feature sets by international DJ's.