JEDDAH, 20 December 2003 — Hilton International, a leading hotel brand, and MasterCard International, a global payments leader, have teamed up to launch a “Precious Weekends” promotion in the Arabian Peninsula. “Weekends are the most precious time we have for relaxing and rejuvenating ourselves and at Hilton we aim to put back a little of what life takes out,” said Guy Epsom, Hilton’s regional director of sales and marketing, Arabian Peninsula. “With 10 hotels in the peninsula to choose from, Hilton has something for everyone — from city breaks and beach relaxation, to exploring the deep sea and desert adventures,” he added. Until March 31, guests can enjoy weekend room rates that have been lowered. MasterCard cardholders also receive an additional 10 percent discount when booking and paying with their MasterCard. Additionally, any MasterCard cardholder staying during the promotional period will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win one of 52 free ‘Precious weekends’ for two at select Hilton hotels.