Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces as entered into a strategic tie up with ETA Star Property Developers LLC to develop and manage the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, a luxury resort at the Palm Island Jumeirah crescent in Dubai. Increasing the shoreline of Dubai by 120 kms, the Palm Island Jumeirah is considered the world's most unique man-made island.

Commenting on the new venture, Mr Raymond Bickson, mnaging director, The Indian Hotels Company Limited, said, "This is part of IHCL's strategy of expanding into the key gateway cities of the world. Dubai today is fast emerging as a leisure destination in addition to being the commercial hub of the region. A second hotel in Dubai is proof of the vast potential that it holds. This new luxury resort will clearly reinforce Taj's dominance of the region."

Mr Abid Junaid, executive director, ETA Star Properties said, "ETA Star has been quick to make its move on the UAE's property scene with residential & commercial projects in advanced stages of development in prime localities. We are confident that, with the proposed launch of Taj Group's luxury resort at the Palm Island Jumeirah, ETA Star will further strengthen its leadership in Dubai's property market." To be unveiled in 2007, the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Dubai, will be targeted at the premium leisure and business travellers.