Marriott recently announced big plans for properties in the Middle East and Africa. The brand alluded to plans for 17 new properties opening across the region this year alone. The announcement coincides with the signing of the new 300-suite Doha Marriott Executive Apartments, which will open in 2019. Additionally, 10 new properties with 4,600 rooms will open in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia in 2016 and 2017, and 21 new hotels with 4,200 rooms will open in Saudi Arabia by 2025. Openings in new countries in the Middle East and Africa are also projected, with first hotels in Iraq, Gabon, Rwanda, Tunisia, Benin, Kenya, Libya and Mauritius by 2025. “We have ambitious plans for growth internationally, and the Middle East and Africa will play a large role in helping us achieve both our short-term and long-term targets,” said Alex Kyriakidis, president and managing director, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International. Marriott International’s current goal is to place brands in all major gateway cities, commercial centers and established resort destinations. As the focus remains on the Middle East and Africa, the company expects to grow its team in the region by 21,000 associates.