Back To Basics: Islamic Hospitality Market To Grow in 2008

Several companies have announced plans to create Islamic hospitality centers in the Middle East catering specifically to two demographic groups: women, and those simply looking for a 'culturally appropriate' layover. According to an article in Al Majella magazine 4/12/08, an outfit called "Loothan Hotels and Spas" is planning to open a chain of all-women's resorts in the Saudi capital of Riyadh sometime this year (The head of the Saudi Chamber of Commerce hailed the move as 'further proof Saudis respect women'). A unique feature of the resort is the fact that it will employ only women, from cooks to electricians, enabling the Muslim woman to enjoy the facilities without the need for an accompanying male family member. Another trend in the Middle East hospitality sector has been to open "women's only" wings in otherwise mixed-sex facilities. Rates for the Loothan Hotels, which offer steam room, sauna, pool and beauty treatments (presumably sold separately) from 350 to 979 Saudi Riyals a night ($US 100-300), 2000 S.R. for holiday packages. Question: When do these facilities hit New York City, where many a Saudi woman must find herself in worse of a bind relative to culturally appropriate hangouts.