April 21--DUBAI -- Movenpick Hotel Makkah is returning to Dubai's Arabian Travel Market, or ATM, for the fourth consecutive year as it launches a new strategic focus targeting GCC travellers.

Headed by general manager Omar Boujlid, the hotel will attend the exhibition as a trade exhibitor alongside parent company Movenpick Hotels and Resorts, the company said in an e-mailed statement.

A delegation of senior executives will be presenting family packages to leading tour operators and the general public in the GCC, as well as revealing Ramadan and Hajj 2013 rates at its exhibitor stand.

The hotel will also offer insights into the strategically-important role the property sector is playing in the kingdom's burgeoning religious tourism market, as well as its plans for future growth.

"Every year has been successful for our properties' participation in ATM, and has led to an increase in business," Boujlid said.

"ATM has opened doors for us to meet different operators who play vital roles in promoting the property and Makkah to the right end consumers. We have been doing very well in the GCC market for the last four years, and we aim to increase our market share further by looking for new partners. So we are looking forward to a busy week of appointments with international travel agents and key buyers."

The hotel is ideally located directly in the Al Haram Court, facing the King Abdul Aziz Gate next to the Holy Kaaba, making this 1,200-room property a highly-popular choice for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, as well as business travellers.

Many rooms feature magnificent views of the Holy Mosque and Kaaba, while others offer partial and city views.

"The UAE is an extremely important market for Movenpick Hotel Makkah," said Ahmed Refaat, director of sales and marketing.

"There has been tremendous growth with the number of tourists from throughout the GCC region throughout last year. With our competitive rates and outstanding service, we can accommodate tailor-made packages for holiday makers and tour operators."

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(c)2013 the Khaleej Times (Dubai, United Arab Emirates)

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