Belfast Harbour has revealed that Marriott International has been selected as the brand for the new £25m City Quays hotel.
The Belfast waterfront venue will be Marriott International's first in Northern Ireland, expanding the company's portfolio of nearly 4,500 hotels located in 87 countries and territories.
The four-star AC Hotel will include 188 rooms, a restaurant, a bar/lounge, fitness facilities and meeting rooms.
Gilbert Ash has been appointed as contractor for the construction element of the £25m project.
Due to open in early 2018, the hotel is expected to create 180 construction jobs and 115 full-time opportunities upon completion.
Graeme Johnston, Belfast Harbour's property director, said: "Bringing Marriott to Northern Ireland for the first time is great news for both business and leisure travellers, as well as for the city.
"Marriott has a very strong presence in the business market which will complement the wider office developments planned for City Quays. The first office is already fully let to four US firms employing 800 people.
"The hotel will also be well placed to tap into Belfast's growing reputation as a conference destination with the newly refurbished Waterfront Hall just a short riverside walk away."
Paul Thomas, director of international development at Marriott, added: "This will be the first AC Hotel by Marriott in Northern Ireland, demonstrating our commitment to opening design-led hotels in thriving destinations where we see growing demand from discerning travellers seeking a refreshed hotel experience.
"We look forward to being part of this exciting and flourishing city."
Ray Hutchinson, managing director of Gilbert-Ash, praised the major construction projects currently being worked on in Belfast, which will "substantially change the face of the city in the coming year".
"Few buildings are able to capitalise on a view over the River Lagan and we think that this hotel and its riverside terrace will allow locals and tourists alike to enjoy one of the city’s greatest assets," he said.
