The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has signed a franchise agreement with Marriott International for two new hospitality projects under the Autograph Collection brand in the emirate.

Shurooq’s two projects will be located in Kalba and Khorfakkan under an agreement signed by Shurooq’s Sharjah Collection & Hotels Management.

Khorfakkan Hotel will be developed on a land area of approximately 38,000 square meters opposite the Khorfakkan Port. It will feature 75 deluxe units, the UAE’s first waterpark on the east coast, a yacht club, residences, retail options including restaurants, spa and gym facilities.

The other five-star development, Kalba Hotel, will be spread across a approximately 60,000 square meters in Kalba on Sharjah’s eastern coast, adjacent to the Kalba waterfront project. Kalba Hotel is close to some of the region’s most renowned diving locations and will feature 80 units, two restaurants, a gym, a spa, a swimming pool and meeting halls.

Autograph Collection Hotels currently operates 237 hotels globally.

“The new franchise agreement ties in with Shurooq’s vision to foster strategic global partnerships with reputed bespoke brands to add value to the world-class personalized service and care offered throughout Shurooq’s destinations. Joining the exclusive fold of Marriott’s Autograph Collection brings us closer to our long-term goal of empowering Sharjah’s diversified economy and cementing its position as a magnet for global brands,” said Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, executive chairman of Shurooq.

Sandeep Walia, CEO – Middle East, Marriott International, added: “We are excited to work with Shurooq to bring our Autograph Collection brand to Sharjah. We look forward to building on this relationship and supporting the overall growth of the tourism sector in Sharjah.”