ME Dubai, the new flagship property of Spanish hotel brand ME by Meliá, is set to open at the beginning of 2020 with veteran luxury hotelier Stefan Viard at the helm. 

 

Viard has assumed a significant role in leading this personality-led lifestyle destination from its earliest stages of construction, and is now guiding his team to the official opening.   

 

Located in The Opus, the newest development by The Omniyat Group, ME Dubai is the first hotel to be designed in its entirety by the legendary late architect Zaha Hadid.  Located in the prestigious Burj Khalifa district, ME Dubai promises stylish contemporary luxury and an elevated approach to the region’s cultural scene.  

 

Viard joined ME Dubai in 2017, having gained both experience and reputation in launching luxury lifestyle hotels in the Middle East for both Emaar Hospitality Group and the Jumeirah Group. These included the Vida Downtown and Manzil Downtown for Emaar, and Al Qasr in the Madinat Jumeirah Resort for Jumeirah Group.

 

Viard began his career 17 years ago with the Hyatt hotel group, gaining experience over a number of years across divisions and cities in Europe, and has also held senior management positions for The Luxury Collection in Asia.  

 

As the GM of ME Dubai, Viard has assumed responsibility for all aspects of the design and development of the property including décor, F&B strategy and concepts, spa and gym concepts, recruitment, setup of front and back of house processes, and management of the AURA team, the exceptional insiders of ME Dubai who will deliver the brand’s personal touches as part of its distinctive guest experience. 

 

Commenting on his role for ME Dubai, Viard said:  “Being immersed in the construction and completion of the first ME by Meliá property in the Middle East has been one of the most exciting periods of my career. I look forward to working with my team to create what will be the new social epicentre of Dubai culture, and an exceptional destination for both residents and visitors to the region.” 

 

ME Dubai features 74 luxury guestrooms and 19 suites, as well as 96 serviced apartments. The property will offer guests a choice of 15 F&B outlets, whilst the spacious pool and sun deck overlooking the Dubai skyline, as well as a 7,000sq² state-of-the-art gym, and luxurious spa, will enable guests to indulge in perfect ‘ME time’.  - TradeArabia News Service