Business space
The best meeting spots on the bmi network
[ MECCA ]
Al Marwa Rayhaan
Almost twice as tall as the Empire State Building and with more floorspace than any other building on the planet, the Abraj Al-Bait Towers are set to become an Arab business centre to rival Dubai’s mighty pinnacles when they are finished next year. And they have something Dubai can never match – a view over the neighbouring Grand Mosque and the holy Kaaba.
Part of the massive complex – which when finished will include a shopping mall, two heliports, a conference centre and accommodation for 100,000 people – is already finished. The Al Marwa Rayhaan is a five-star hotel by regional group Rotana, with over 400 luxury rooms to house your delegation. Facilities are up to international standards, with a multi-lingual secretary in the business centre, a limo hire service and 24-hour in-room dining.
Mecca is easily reached via Jeddah airport. When planning a meeting, please remember that non-Muslims are not allowed to enter Mecca. Prices start from 450 riyals (£75) for rooms and 1,140 riyals (£190) for suites.
King Abdul Aziz Gate, Abraj Al Bait, Mecca, + 966 2571 4444, www.rotana.com
[ SCOTLAND ]
Dundee and Angus
A new website has been launched to help people organise conventions and business meetings in the Dundee and Angus area of Scotland. Easily accessible from bmi’s three Scottish airports – Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen – the region has many memorable venues, including a 16th-century castle, a botanical garden and the RSS Discovery (pictured), Scott of the Antartic’s exploration ship. And of course, plenty of golf courses to amuse your CEO.
www.conventiondundeeandangus.co.uk
