The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre to open January 12

While the most anticipated hotel opening this year is likely The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong -- set to become the world's tallest hotel -- The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company is already kicking off 2011 in style with a brand new hotel opening next week.  The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is scheduled to open January 12, which will be The Ritz-Carlton's second property in Dubai. 

This ultra-luxurious hotel features 341 rooms, with 124 executive residences, and is situated in the heart of Dubai's bustling financial district.  The building's 14-story exterior will feature a contemporary design, utilizing art deco elements, making it a standout in this sea of massive skyscrapers. 

The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC will also be the only hotel with a direct link to the buildings at the DIFC itself.  To take advantage of this prime location, the social hub will be the hotel bar, No. 5, located at the end of the path between the DIFC and the hotel itself. 

Luxury leisure and business travelers can expect nothing less than the best from The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC. There will be a fully equipped health club and the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Spa, offering 13 treatment rooms.  The property will also feature the biggest ballroom in the city's financial district.  The Samaya Ballroom, Arabic for "my sky", is 15,106 square feet and the total conference and catering space is a massive 27,777 square feet.  

For wine enthusiasts, be sure to check out the 100 foot wine wall that is home to 3,000 bottles of the world's finest wines.  Dining options at The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC include Blue Rain, signature Thai fine-dining, Can Can, all-day French dining brasserie, and the Center Cut Steakhouse, showcasing the signature cuisine by The Ritz-Carlton chefs.  There is also the Lobby Lounge & Terrace that will offer not only afternoon tea, but something else you won't find anywhere else in Dubai -- a chocolate and champagne experience. 

The hotel's design utilizes numerous feng shui water features, based on the belief that the constant flow of water signifies wealth and prosperity.  One of the most unique water design elements is the 10 story outdoor waterfall that cascades down the building, directly into the courtyard that faces the lobby. 

Reservations are already being accepted for The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre.  For more information, visit The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC's website. 

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