The 520-room property, scheduled to open early next year, will be called Le Meridien Hurghada, in deference to its location in the premiere resort area within Hurghada Red Sea region. Built from local coral stones excavated during construction, the exclusive resort is considered to be one of Alfy's most outstanding creations.

Under development for the past eight years, Le Meridien Hurghada features a series of terraces gently set into the surrounding Hurghada hills, providing every guest room a panoramic view of the Red Sea. Hotel amenities include a private beach, a private marina, six restaurants, a nightclub, a coffee shop and a 5,400-sf promenade that will offer a range of retail opportunities, including several shops featuring the works of local artisans.

"It is destined to become one of the gems of the Red Sea," says Hassan Ahdab, Le Meridien's regional managing director for Africa and the Indian Ocean.