Marriott International is set to expand its luxury portfolio in the United Arab Emirates with the opening of The St. Regis Downtown Dubai.

The hotel group has signed an agreement with RDK Tourism Investment LLC to renovate an existing property on the canal waterfront of Business Bay and reopen it under the St. Regis brand in late 2021. 

Renovation plans for the existing hotel including a residential-inspired design of the lobby and the addition of an Astor Ballroom.

The property is located close to the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall and will offer “bespoke guest experiences”, Marriott said. 

The new hotel will be the 18th luxury property in the UAE for Marriott International and the fourth property in the region for the St. Regis brand, joining The St. Regis Abu Dhabi; The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi; and The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm, which is set to open next month. 

“We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with RDK Tourism Investment with this milestone project,” said Jerome Briet, chief development officer, EMEA, Marriott International. 

“St. Regis delivers exquisite experiences and anticipatory service in some of the most desirable locations around the world. With this addition, the brand will arrive at one of the finest addresses in Downtown Dubai, which is home to the city’s most iconic landmarks. The St. Regis Downtown Dubai is set to offer unparalleled luxury, bespoke service and modern glamour for leisure and business travellers alike.”