DUBAI, 5 February — Marriott International has opened its first Marriott Executive Apartments (MEAs) in the Middle East in Dubai. Located in the heart of Dubai’s commercial district, the complex consists of 172 fully furnished serviced apartments. MEAs is Marriott’s new upscale, apartment-like accommodation designed to meet the needs of business executives planning to stay in an urban, overseas destination for 30 days or more. The facility offers travelers a residential-style apartment with hotel-like amenities, full kitchens, security and the availability of short-term leases. Dubai MEAs, owned and developed by Union Properties PJSC, is the first such residential facility to be managed by Marriott International in the Middle East. Ed Fuller, president and managing director of Marriott Lodging International, and Anis Al Jallaf, chairman of Union Properties, officially opened the apartments. Situated in the Skywalk Towers A and B, the apartments overlook Dubai Creek and are just five minutes from Dubai International Airport. Fuller said: "We’re sure business people and other visitors will appreciate the pleasant combination of luxury five star accommodation services and the relaxed atmosphere and conveniences of home." Al Jallaf said: "Union Properties has a long association with providing high-quality residential accommodation. We’re delighted to be offering such a luxurious facility to the visitors and business guests of Dubai. The facility included 74 one-bedroom, 80 two-bedroom and 18 three-bedroom apartments, all tastefully furnished and fitted with the conveniences one would expect in a "home away from home." Currently, MEAs are located in Budapest, Prague, Brussels Hong Kong, Tokyo and Bombay. New MEAs are scheduled to open in Shanghai and Dalian, China, in 2002, Sao Paolo in 2003 and Canary Wharf, London in 2004.