The property, which is set to open in early 2009, will cater for the upscale luxury travel sector and completes a multi-tier product portfolio in the country.

The new InterContinental is the fourth Kuwait property to be backed by Bu Khamseen Group Holding Co., with Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn hotels already open and the Group's newly launched extended-stay brand, Staybridge Suites, set for the country within the next 18 months.

Regarded as one of the region's most important business markets, there is significant need in Kuwait for more upscale hotel rooms and having the InterContinental brand in the capital with 200 rooms, including 20 suites, will cater for this demand. The development is testament to the confidence IHG has in the country and its thriving corporate travel industry.

Richard Hartman commented,
'The signing of InterContinental Kuwait is representative of the deep and valued relationship we have developed with Bu Khamseen Holding Group Co. over many years and the iconic property is set to be the crowning glory of the diverse product portfolio we have built up together in this important destination.'

'The pending 200 rooms at InterContinental Kuwait, and indeed the 150 units being developed as part of the Staybridge Suites property, will support IHG's extensive regional expansion plan, which will see almost 7000 rooms come online by 2010.'

Inline with the increasingly discerning tastes of visitors to Kuwait, the InterContinental will offer three diverse food and beverage outlets including an all day dining restaurant and two speciality restaurants, all with capacity to welcome at least 150 diners.

State-of-the-art meeting facilities and a banquet hall with over 600 sqm of space add to the world-class amenities on offer, which demonstrate IHG's commitment to the strong future of Kuwait as a key destination on the global business traveller map.