KUWAIT: Kuwait-based IFA Hotels & Resorts (IFA HR) has announced the opening of its second hotel in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal - the brand new Fairmont Zimbali Resort.

At the opening ceremony held in Zimbali last week, Vice Chairman and CEO of IFA Hotels & Resorts, Mr Talal Jassim Al-Bahar joined the Honourable Minister of Justice & Constitutional Development, Mr Jeff Radebe in officially declaring the hotel open and operational.

Al-Bahar stated, "As one of the largest tourism investments ever undertaken in the region, the completion of this project is a milestone for the local economy, the South African tourism industry and IFA Hotels & Resorts. The opening of this resort reinforces our company's long-term commitment to tourism and economic development in the KwaZulu-Natal."

Situated between the pristine beauty of a 700-hectare forest reserve and the shimmering beaches of the Dolphin Coast on the Indian Ocean, Fairmont Zimbali Resort is an oasis of unspoiled beauty. With over 250 keys, comprising residential and hotel, the development offers the ultimate in five-star luxury accommodation including conference facilities, the international Willow Stream Spa, an exclusive beach club, decadent food and beverage outlets, a range of hotel condominiums and the prestigious Fairmont Heritage Place Private Residence Club.

A Gary Player Signature Golf Course, Country Club and Golf Academy with state-of-the-art driving range are also under construction.

President and COO, IFA Hotels & Resorts, Mr Werner Burger noted that the handover and management of the resort to Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, whose portfolio comprises distinctive and iconic properties the world over, automatically links South Africa to other top-tier destinations and facilities worldwide.

Burger added: "Increasing the region's global profile falls perfectly in line with IFA HR's long-term vision and commitment to South African tourism. And, with an investment of US$223 million (R1.7-billion), Fairmont Zimbali Resort has already made a major contribution towards local job creation, community development and 'green' environmental initiatives."

The project's timeline was accelerated in order to complete the resort ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Among the first bookings already received for the games are Nike International and Coca-Cola.

Al-Bahar concluded: "We are delighted to be open in time to host FIFA 2010 businesses and fans. With the recently opened King Shaka International airport just 15 minutes away, we are certain that Fairmont Zimbali Resort will become one of the most successful mixed-use resorts in South Africa during the World Cup and long after the games have moved on."