The project will entail the construction of a new hotel on the existing site. It will have a built-up area of 51,000 square metres, with 270 rooms, in addition to conference facilities, restaurants and a multi-level underground car park. The main consultant working on the project is UK-based Wimberly Allison Tong & Goo.

International contractors that have recently completed work or are now active in the Egyptian construction market include Besixof Belgium, South Africa's Murray & Roberts Construction, Balfour Beattyand John Laing- both of the UK - Skanska of Sweden and Consolidated Contractors International Company (CCC)and Joannou & Paraskevaides (Overseas), both Athens-based.

It is understood that the client is aiming to invite bids from shortlisted contractors in the fourth quarter of 2002.

The existing 588-room hotel was refurbished in the mid 1990s by SAEof France.