The Dubai-based office aims to establish the Horwath HTL brand in the Middle East and to open up and penetrate the highly promising market in the Gulf countries.

In addition to Hospitality consulting services, the new Dubai office will focus on strengthening the destination development and planning disciplines within the Horwath HTL network, helping to expand the cooperation with international donor organisations such as the World Bank, International Finance Corporation, and GIZ (‘Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit’).

Thanks to its close relationship with the Obermeyer Corporate Group, a leading German engineering consultancy, the Dubai-based Horwath HTL office will offer an extended service portfolio, with services from market and feasibility studies and master plans through to engineering design, construction supervision and project management.

TDO’s Managing Director Hannes Scheid becomes Managing Director of the new Horwath HTL office. Hannes is an Industry expert with both comprehensive operational experience in the hospitality industry and a proven track record in Tourism and Master Planning projects.

Hannes has already worked extensively throughout the region and sees great potential for the Brand. Hannes said; “Despite the fact that several of the Gulf countries have been hit hard by the financial crisis, the Gulf’s tourism potential has not been fully tapped. The region still boasts lots of tourism opportunities as it benefits from assets such as strategic geographical location, strong GDP growth, a safe environment and a rapidly increasing population.” adding: ‘The Horwath HTL brand, with its rich history and credibility is perfect for the region and we look forward to helping our many clients achieve even greater success.

Robert Hecker, Chairman of the Horwath HTL network said; “We are delighted to welcome Hannes and his team to the Horwath HTL family and we have great hopes for the region. We have spent a great deal of time looking for the right partner to grow this important economic region and are fortunate to have found the quality of Hannes and his team to join the network.”