Iraq Plans $1 Billion Zone Of Influence Near New U.S. Embassy In Baghdad

Baghdad, Iraq (AHN) - Marriott International is considering opening a hotel in Baghdad's Green Zone, in response to a request from U.S. government officials who want to help Iraq revive its economy through foreign investments and economic activities.

While Marriott chief executive Bill Marriott is open to the idea, he has expressed concern about the safety of the Middle East location, the Washington Post said.

Operating in the Middle East is not new ground for the Bethesda-based hotel operator, one of the largest global hotel operators. Marriott has plans to build up to 75 hotels in the region from its current 26 in the next few years.

Baghdad authorities have approached other hotel operators aside from Marriott, but Iraq wants to maximize its links with the Bush administration since Bill Marriott chairs the U.S. Export Council. Even before Marriott has confirmed its interest, a license for a hotel construction has already been issued by Baghdad, said Paul Brinkley, deputy defense undersecretary for business transformation.

Marriott spokesman John Wolf told the Washington Post, "As with any opportunity, we carefully consider all the factors involved... We're evaluating this, just as we are considering opportunities elsewhere."

Aside from Marriott International, Navy Capt. Thomas Karnowski, leader of a team that seeks to create a zone of influence around the new $700 million U.S. Embassy, told the AP another possible investor for the hotel venture is MBI International. MBI is a consortium specializing in hotels and resorts, headed by Saudi Arabian Sheikh Mohamed Bin Issa Al Jaber.