Union Properties (UP) has awarded the Dh1 billion ($275 million) main construction contract of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai to a French/local joint venture (JV) of Bouygues Batiment International and Target Engineering Construction Company.

The JV has begun mobilising for the hotel and apartment project, which calls for the construction of a 15-storey hotel and apartment building with three basements of parking.
Piling works have been carried out under a separate contract and the hotel is scheduled to open in 2008.
The $410 million development will comprise 340 hotel rooms (Ritz-Carlton Suite and Royal Suite), and 323 unserviced apartments ranging in size from one to four bedrooms. In addition, it will include a 1,400 sq m ballroom, five meeting rooms with a boardroom, restaurants and other public facilities.
Recreational amenities will include a 2,100 sq m health club and spa, as well as both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. 124 serviced apartments will range in size from 125 to 350 sq m and feature one-to-four-bedroom furnished luxury units. Residents will be able to utilise all services offered by the hotel including housekeeping, catering, concierge, and in- room dining.
Gensler Architects and Interior Designer of the US has designed the 15-storey hotel. The interior will blend elements of modern style and classic Arabic design elements for a showplace of luxury and elegance.