Dubai, 17th November 2019: Roberto’s Group is announcing the signature of a franchise agreement with Al Eqbal Real Estate Development to open a branded Roberto’s venue, operated by Marriott International within their newest development, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Amman.
The agreement was signed by Emad Kilani Chief Executive Officer of Al Eqbal Real Estate Development and Amin Kadrie Chairman of SKelmore Group in the presence of Tawfiq Fakhouri, Chairman of Al Eqbal Real Estate Development.
The Venue, scheduled to open in April 2021, marks the first international expansion of Roberto’s, the brand central to the United Arab Emirates with 2 award-winning venues; in Dubai DIFC and at Rosewood Hotel, on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi. Roberto’s has been synonymous with outstanding service, inspired Italian cuisine, signature mixology bars, relaxed entertainment lounges and striking terrace views.
The brand's vision for the 200-seat Roberto’s housed at the rooftop of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Amman is to deliver those unique, multifaced hospitality experiences that are synonymous with Roberto's venues to the fast-growing modern lifestyle of Amman. The venue is expected to complement The Ritz-Carlton Hotel’s iconic position as Amman’s newest five star hotel and redefine dining experience in Amman in respect to food, music, entertainment and social engagement and will offer the most stunning views of the city.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Roberto’s, a multi-concept award-winning dining restaurant, who we believe will introduce a new level of authentic, thoughtful and contemporary Italian fine dining experience to the hospitality sector in Jordan” Mr. Fakhouri stated.
"We are excited to open Roberto’s in a new landmark building that will be setting new standards for Hotels in Amman. It is our aim to provide our guests and visitors with genuine hospitality and memorable F&B experiences, all while showcasing Roberto's unique Italian flair to a wider audience both nationally and globally," said Amin Kadrie , Chairman of Skelmore Group.
"With our relationship with Tawfiq Fahouri, the Chairman of Al Eqbal Real Estate Development and Marriott International, we mark the beginning of Roberto’s global expansion. We continue to see opportunities and demand to bring this unique concept and its execution across new territories with the aim to expand in the Middle East and enter the Far East market by 2021. " Added Amin Kadrie Chairman of Roberto’s Group.
“This is indeed an exciting opportunity and we are very pleased to add this very popular lifestyle concept, Roberto’s, to our growing portfolio of restaurants and bars that we operate in the region. We believe this will support Marriott’s overall Food & Beverage strategy, adding value and brand recognition to our hotels across the Middle East & Africa.” said Lynne Bellinger, Director of Food & Beverage Development for Marriott International MEA.
“We believe Roberto’s venues with their multifaceted concept and strong fundamentals have the potential to succeed in most markets. With the opening of “Roberto Mare” last June, a seaside marina version of Roberto’s concept executed in Porto Montenegro, we now have the capability to offer both City and Resort solution, enhancing our opportunities for expansion" Said Andrea Sacchi SVP Business Development.
Roberto’s Group has also announced that there has been significant demand in their Franchise and that they are now evaluating other franchise opportunities from interested parties in Riyadh, Cairo, Muscat, Istanbul, Delhi, Moscow, Shanghai, Tokyo and Singapore, with the next franchise announcement expected in Q1 of 2020.
About Skelmore Hospitality Group
Established in 2011 Skelmore Hospitality is a dynamic Hospitality company which has leveraged its strong business acumen and innovative ideas to disrupt the established F&B market in Dubai.
Our strength lies in our ability to develop innovative concepts which are professionally executed to achieve clear business objectives ensuring both a world-class experience for our customers while exceeding standard industry KPIs.
Skelmore Hospitality Group LLC owner of Roberto’s Club LLC and Roberto’s Restaurant & Club Ltd strives to provide a franchise-friendly environment in which goal-oriented owners thrive as they achieve ever more demanding challenges.
Our company commitment to providing the franchise with the tool for exceptional customers care and quality service is unwavering
About Roberto’s
Opening in 2012, Roberto’s has established itself as a multi-concept award-winning Dining lifestyle destination in the UAE, with venues located in the heart of the Dubai International Financial Centre district and at the Rosewood, a luxury 5* star hotel on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi.
A seaside iteration of the brand, “Roberto’s Mare”, opened in June 2019 with good success in Porto Montenegro, MNE, making it the 3rd outlet under the brand.
Robertos venues offer a 360-degree hospitality experience from fine dining experiences to mixologist bars, entertainment lounges and amazing alfresco terrace views.
Under the overall direction of Chief Culinary Advisor, 3* Michelin Chef Enrico Bartolini, and our corporate chef Francesco Guarracino, Roberto’s culinary product offers a truly cosmopolitan experience anchored in Italian Tradition paired with an outstanding and uniquely Italian flair service.
About Al Eqbal Real Estate Development
Al Eqbal Real Estate Development was established in 2016 by its Chairman, renowned entrepreneur and business leader, Tawfiq Shaker Fakhouri. Based in Amman, Jordan, the development company aims to deliver prestigious properties that surpass market expectations and adhere to international standards, in respect of local sensibilities and cultures at all times. Al Eqbal is the master developer of two upcoming esteemed properties in Amman, Jordan, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton Residences.
Al Eqbal is distinguished not only by the ambitious vision of its Chairman, but also the wealth of talent within its ranks. Gathering a diverse group of skilled multi-sector professionals, the Company leverages the extensive expertise and ingenuity of its management team to expertly plan, finance and market its projects, thereby achieving the satisfaction of its stakeholders.
For more information, please visit www.eqbaljordan.com
About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel & Residences in Amman
Strategically located at the heart of the capital, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Residences in Amman reflect the authenticity of Jordanian culture with a modern twist, on par with the highest international standards. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel comprises 228 guest rooms - the smallest of which are 60 sqm - and includes 34 luxury suites. The Hotel also features two upscale restaurants, one of which is situated on the rooftop, as well as an elegantly-designed 1000-sqm grand ballroom, which will help to promote conference tourism in Jordan. As for The Ritz-Carlton Residences, the property encompasses 90 private residences for purchase, each of which consists exclusively of master bedrooms. Ranging in size from one to four bedrooms and featuring two exclusive penthouses, The Residences offer full access to countless exceptional amenities and recreational facilities, such as an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, Owners Lounge and boardroom. Furthermore, The Residences will present unique destinations for entertainment, including a cinema and gaming room for children. Meanwhile, ensuring to extend the comforts that all homeowners crave, The Residences will also comprise a convenience store, mailroom and ATM in the lobby, as well as electric car charging stations and a designated visitors parking.
Press Enquiries:
Seher Farooq
Group Communications Manager
Tel: +971 56 626 6026
Email: sfarooq@skelmore.com