The Saudi Binladin Group (SBG) has awarded UAE-based Drake & Scull International (DSI) a sub-contract worth AED85m ($23m) for the mechanical, plumbing and engineering (MEP) work on the Rotana Gardenia hotel project in Homs, Syria.

SBG is the main contractor for the development.

The MEP project is the first contract win in Syria for Drake & Scull since it opened offices in the country earlier this year.

The Rotana Gardenia is a five-star hotel with a total built-up area of 84,000 square metres. The development includes four basement floors, two floors of banquet halls, three floors of retail units, 289 hotel rooms on 26 floors, 16 floors of apartments and restaurants and leisure facilities.

Work on the project is expected to begin immediately and the hotel development is scheduled for completion in June 2012.