European hospitality company Kempinski Hotels is set to operate three further hotels in the Middle East.

The Kempinski Hotel Aqaba in Jordan will feature 216 rooms, suites and cabanas in three acres of gardens.

Additional facilities will include a club lounge with decking overlooking the Red Sea, a nightclub, a 400-capacity ballroom and a wellness centre and spa.

The United Saudi Jordanian Hotels & Tourism Company will develop the hotel in time for a December 2008 opening.

In Dhour Abadiyah, Lebanon, The Kempinski Hotel Al Abadiyah Hills will comprise 12 private villas, 33 townhouses and 220 apartments, with private gardens and swimming pools.

A health club, gymnasium, swimming pool, spa and tennis courts will also be available to guests.

Developer IFA Hotels & Resorts proposes to open the property in 2008.

The third property is the seven-storey, 250-room Kempinski Hotel Emerald Palace in Dubai.

Facilities include a fitness centre and spa, several restaurants, a shopping arcade, a 500m long private beach and a business centre. Dubai-based developer The Emerald Palace Group intends to open the hotel in 2009.

Kempinski’s hotel management portfolio comprises more than 50 properties in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and South America. Details: www.kempinski.com