The first in a global collection of residences, hotels and resorts under the Nobu brand is on schedule to open in mid-2010 on the Herzliya Marina on Israel’s Mediterranean coast.

The Nobu Hotel & Residences Herzliya Marina will feature an intimate Nobu Spa, designed by Nobu partner David Rockwell of the Rockwell Group and will have a Japanese sauna as its centrepiece.

The Nobu group intends to develop projects throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, North America and South America, with a second Nobu Hotel and Residences planned for Manhattan, New York, US.

The global restaurant brand Nobu was started in 1994 by chef Nobu Matsuhisa and his partners, including actor Robert De Niro, producer Meir Teper and managing partner Richie Notar. (See the Spa Business Handbook for more information. To subscribe, visit spabusinesshandbook.com)