The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. Announces First Hotel in Tunisia

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., the leader in luxury hospitality, has announced the brand's first hotel in Tunisia. The Ritz-Carlton Tunis, Carthage is owned by Companie Tunisienne de Development Touristique (CTDT), a subsidiary of the Driss-Jenayah Group, and a pioneer group in hospitality.

Located in Carthage-Sidi Bou Said, a suburb of Tunisia's capital city Tunis, the 129-suites resort is projected to open in late 2014. With interiors designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), the hotel will offer seven food and beverage outlets, an expansive ballroom and destination spa. Ideally situated on the Mediterranean Sea, The Ritz-Carlton Tunis, Carthage offers an exclusive beachfront setting adjacent to the Presidential Palace and step away from Carthage's ancient ruins. Tunis has a rich history evident in its many historical sites including the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprising of ancient Islamic architecture including over 700 monuments.

"We are honored to have been selected by Companie Tunisienne de Development Touristique to manage this incredible property," said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. "We believe this stunning destination with its rich history and diverse culture will offer our discerning guests a unique and exciting new location to explore when it opens late 2014."

Mr. Omar Jenayah, Chief Executive Officer of Companie Tunisienne de Development Touristique, said "We are delighted to partner with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company in its first endeavour into Tunisia. The long and storied legacy of The Ritz-Carlton is well-suited to Tunisia's own historical heritage."

Asked about additional growth in the region for The Ritz-Carlton, Humler added, "We continue to explore other opportunities and destinations in the Middle East and Africa. With the right hotels in the right locations, I believe expansion in this region is an essential part of our future strategy."

Companie Tunisienne de Development Touristique (CTDT), a subsidiary of the Driss-Jenayah Group, is a pioneer group in hospitality, financial services and healthcare, and also has several investments in manufacturing, airlines, agriculture and food processing. The Group owns a portfolio of hotels with more than 6000 rooms.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Bethesda, MD, part of Marriott International, Inc., currently operates more than 100 hotels in 32 countries and territories. For more information or reservations, visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.marriott.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR). The Ritz-Carlton is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.

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The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Bethesda, MD, part of Marriott International, Inc., currently operates more than 100 hotels in 32 countries and territories. For more information or reservations, visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.marriott.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.