The Rezidor Hotel Group (RHG) is to make its debut in Qatar after announcing that it will be converting the 583-bedroom Ramada Plaza Doha into a Radisson Blu-branded property.

An US18m (EUR14m, £11.6m) renovation is to be carried out before the property reopens as the Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha during the third quarter of 2012

Facilities currently include six bars and 12 restaurants; 2,000sq m (21,528sq ft) of meeting and conference space; and the Cabana Club, which offers a number of leisure activities.

The Cabana Club offers a large gymnasium; an outdoor swimming pool; a splash pool for children; two saunas and two steamrooms; two squash courts; and massage facilities.

Meanwhile, the East Wing of the hotel includes a splash pool with underwater mood music; two treatment rooms; two saunas; a sun room; and a gymnasium.

RHG president and chief executive officer Kurt Ritter said the property will join the brand's existing Middle East portfolio comprising 29 hotels either open or under development.

Hotel general manager Gordon MacKenzie added: "Joining the Radisson Blu brand will continue to enhance our services and open new avenues for international business."