Luxury launch

The BDD solution is indispensable for Burj Al Arab. Khan adds: "Considering the number of machines that need to be deployed and maintained, and the changes to the ‘desired golden configuration,' it would have been impossible to manage the diversity of changes otherwise."

The applications deployed alongside Windows Vista and the 2007 Microsoft Office system provide guests with a wide range of solutions for business and leisure use. The project required KalSoft and Microsoft to transfer knowledge about the new technology to the Burj Al Arab's IT support team to ensure guests could benefit from the new round-the-clock functions as soon as possible.

The benefits of implementing the software were plentiful. The Burj Al Arab's guests are discerning travellers accustomed to the latest and best in hospitality services.

IT is no exception. The visual sophistication of Windows Vista helps streamline guests' computing experience by refining common Windows functions so the user can focus on the screen's content rather than how to access it.

The software also provides guests with a more informative, intuitive, and helpful desktop experience. It also provides greater clarity for the information on the computer, so users can see what files contain without having to open them.

Other notable benefits include an improved search function for files and applications, more efficient navigation and easier-to-use functionality, new deployment tools for rapid implementation in guests' suites, built-in entertainment features and improved Internet surfing for guests through the new Internet Explorer 7.

The entire implementation took just three weeks, with the hotel guests now enjoying a streamlined computing experience, easier navigation, and instant access to e-mail messages, the internet, and multi-media entertainment channels.

Sabty adds: "We have always been an innovator. We were early adopters of Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition for our guests. Soon, everyone will be using Windows Vista and the 2007 Office System, and we want to be the first."

The Burj Al Arab also recently implemented Trapeze Smart Mobility Solution. The award-winning implementation included 500 access points with Wi-Fi phones, internet access, guest access with IPTV streaming over wireless for their mobile station The hotel also implemented GSM synchronisation.

The hotel is undeniably one of the most technically advanced in the region. It is only a matter of time before it will see further IT advancements.