LONDON – The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., the leader in luxury hospitality, has confirmed their first hotel in Israel will officially open its doors in late 2013. The Ritz-Carlton, Herzliya is located in the exclusive residential seafront town north of Tel Aviv, and will be the first global luxury branded hotel in the country.

"We are delighted to be opening this exceptional seafront property at a time of historic growth in incoming tourism to Israel. Global travellers will now have the opportunity to enjoy The Ritz-Carlton award- winning service and experience here as we establish the definitive luxury experience in Israel," said Herve Humler, president and chief operations officer, The Ritz-Carlton. "The Ritz-Carlton will bring its legendary service standards to Israel and offer the global affluent traveller a destination for both leisure and business in Herzliya," he added.

Tel Aviv is a vibrant Mediterranean city with historic cultural sights, Bauhaus architecture, and a dynamic cafe and restaurant culture. As the home of the growing technology sector, Herzliya is also a frequent destination for business travellers the world over.

Located on the Marina overlooking the Mediterranean, the hotel and was designed by a collection of internationally recognized architects and designers. Rani Ziss Architects Ltd. designed the 12-storey property and New York-based interior design firm Studio Gaia created the interiors with Israeli studio Gad Halperin producing the lobby and restaurant concepts. The 197 room property includes 82 suites all with stunning sea views and balconies. As the first urban resort in Israel, the property offers a unique beach front experience with leisure amenities including a roof-top swimming pool with sweeping panoramic views of the beach. The Ritz-Carlton Spa and Fitness Centre both have Mediterranean views and outdoor relaxation terraces, while sailing, surfing and other water sports are within a short stroll of the property.

Renowned Chef Yonathon Roshfeld will create his first kosher dining experience at the Herbet Samuel restaurant within The Ritz-Carlton by using local, seasonal produce complemented by kosher lsraeli and international wines. A panoramic rooftop bar will offer sweeping views overlooking of the coastline.

Facilities for business travellers at the property include 4,500 square feet of meeting space with views of the Marina for both business and social events and a Business Centre.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 80 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, an award that originated in 1987. Its purpose is to promote the awareness of quality excellence, recognize quality achievements of companies and publicize successful quality strategies. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company won the award in 1992 and 1999. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the UK 0800 234 000, or visit the company web site at . The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR).