Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide announced the introduction of its W brand to North Africa with plans to debut a new hotel and residence property in Marrakech, Morocco. Owned by Dilam Hotel Development S.A.S., W Marrakech and The Residences at W Marrakech will include a 150-room hotel and 68 whole-ownership villa residences as part of a luxurious, mixed-use development. The newly constructed property is scheduled to open in mid 2010 in a prime location at the heart of the city's emerging luxury hotel district.

"W continues to extend beyond the boundaries of everyday travel, offering a magical mix of sophisticated destinations and sublime design," said Ross Klein, President of Starwood's Luxury Brands Group. "W Marrakech will offer exclusivity, escape, and indulgence for travelers in the bustling landscape of one of Africa's most dynamic cities. From Marrakech to Milan, Barcelona to Beijing, Hoboken to Hong Kong, W is going global as the influential and innovative lifestyle authority."

W Marrakech will be a core element of the Al Maaden Resort development and will overlook an 18-hole championship golf course.

"Marking the entry of the W brand in North Africa, W Marrakech will provide a unique alternative for our customers, inviting them to discover one of the most charismatic destinations in the world," said Roeland Vos, President of Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Europe, Africa & Middle East. "I would like to thank Dilam Hotel Development S.A.S. for the trust they have shown in Starwood and the W brand."

"Dilam Hotel Development S.A.S. is very excited to bring the W brand to Morocco for a project that is sure to add a new level of excitement, ambiance and design to compliment the vibrancy and character of Marrakech," said Michael Barry, Principal of Dilim Hotel Development S.A.S.