Belfast's growing reputation as a must-see tourist destination has been further reinforced with the opening of two new hotels.
The Ibis chain outlets in the city centre and near Queen's University represent a £12m boost to the hospitality industry and will provide 174 beds and create 50 jobs.
While the budget accommodation will carry the international chain's brand name, it will be managed by local hotelier Lord Diljit Rana as part of his Andras House group.
The deal represents the first time Ibis have franchised outlets in the UK.
Ibis Belfast City Centre is located on the corner of Castle Street and King Street with Ibis Queen's Quarter situated in University Street.
They were officially opened for business by Tourism minister Arlene Foster.
'High standards'
Lord Rana, who runs Belfast's Ramada Hotel, Days Hotel and Express by Holiday Inn, said Ibis's decision to let him open franchises in the city was proof of the growing confidence in Belfast.
"It is symbolic of their trust in the Northern Ireland tourism product and in the quality of service they know will be delivered to our high standards locally," he said.
Accor's budget Ibis brand was first established in 1974 and operates more than 800 Ibis hotels globally. Between 2009 and 2010, one to two new Ibis hotels are expected to be launched in the world every week.
Andras House has plans to build three more Ibis hotels in Northern Ireland in the coming years.
Minister Foster welcomed the arrival of the global chain to the region.
"The launch of the Ibis brand in Northern Ireland is a significant sign of confidence in Northern Ireland's tourism potential, as we continue to attract global brands of this stature," she said.
"Tourism has a vital role to play in Northern Ireland's future and, during these challenging economic times, this investment provides a welcome boost to the local economy."
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