Fashion hotels conquer Dubai

Armani opens its first design hotel in Dubai this March, Elie Saab has announced one for next year, and now Karl Lagerfeld and Victoria Beckham are rumored to be involved in a luxury hotel project here -- could the city be back on track?

Armani opens its first design hotel in Dubai this March, Elie Saab has announced one for next year, and now Karl Lagerfeld and Victoria Beckham are rumored to be involved in a luxury hotel project here - could the city be back on track?

According to the Daily Mirror, rumor has it that Spice-Girl-turned-designer Victoria Beckham has been offered £25 million (almost €29 million) to design rooms and staff uniforms.

Located on Dubai's fashion-themed island, Isla Moda, the hotel developers have reportedly already won over Chanel's head designer Karl Lagerfeld to participate in the project. Lagerfeld was already involved in the design process for the island.

The article in the British newspaper follows news that Lebanese designer Elie Saab is planning the launch of his luxury boutique hotel Al Ruwaya as part of the Tiger Woods Dubai resort in 2011.

Meanwhile, Armani announced the official opening for its first design hotel, which is located at the world's highest tower, Burj Khalifa in Dubai, for March 18.

The brands join the likes of Versace, Christian Lacroix, and Missoni, which have all opened fashion hotels in the past.