$1 mn holiday package to Emirates Palace

Dubai, Aug 6: Have money? Splurge on a week long dream holiday in Emirates! That is what the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi is offering as a package, which it says is the most expensive in the world.

The package will include first-class air tickets, chauffeur-driven limousines and daily spa treatments in one of the most luxurious surroundings, and even a day trip to Iran to weave carpets if the guest so desires. ''The package covers first class trip from any destination serviced by Etihad Airways to Abu Dhabi,'' said Janet Abrahams, the hotel's director of sales and marketing. Hans Olbertz, the hotel's general manager, said the premier property was seeking to establish Abu Dhabi as a world-class favourite destination for vacationing by offering the seven-night stay in a 680 sq m palace suite.

Part of the money collected through the package would be donated to social and charitable organisations in the UAE, he added. The hotel is attempting to get a slot in the Guinness Book of World Records, the Khaleej Times quote him as saying.

''The offer is tailor-made as per the guests' requirements. As an example, we can include day trips by private jet to Iran to create your own hand-made Persian carpet from the most exclusive and well-renowned maker, to Dead Sea in Jordan to experience the famous sea and the afternoon Anantara Spa treatment in the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar, to Bahrain for a deep sea pearl diving experience,'' Mr Olbertz said.

UNI