Company Has Received Strong Interest from Investors and Developers To Partner on Major Redevelopment Effort Starwood Also Plans to Open Six Hotels in New York City in 2010 and launch a $90 Million Renovation of the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) announced today a redevelopment plan for the 665-room Sheraton Manhattan at Times Square in New York City. The company is exploring a variety of options to maximize the long-term value of this significant asset which occupies 395,000 square feet of real estate, covering a full city block, bounded by Broadway, Seventh Avenue and 51st and 52nd Street near Times Square. The redevelopment plans will include a hotel flying one of Starwood’s brand flags, in possible combination with retail and office uses. Given the hotel’s incomparable footprint, Starwood has received considerable interest from investors and developers to partner on the project and the company has assembled a project team to assist in evaluating a full range of options and partners over the coming months.

As the hotel is redeveloped, Starwood will remove the Sheraton flag and operate the hotel as a non-branded Starwood property beginning in April. The hotel will remain open as the company finalizes redevelopment plans, and will continue to be a member of the Starwood Preferred Guest loyalty program. Starwood made the decision to operate the hotel as an independent because the hotel does not currently meet the upgraded standards of the Sheraton brand, which is culminating a three-year, $6 billion dollar global overhaul. As part of the revitalization of Sheraton, Starwood’s largest and most global hotel brand, the brand has removed 32 “off brand” hotels in order to improve its quality and consistency, and reflect a significantly enhanced guest experience.

The redevelopment of the Sheraton Manhattan is illustrative of Starwood’s bullish growth plans in New York City. Starwood has more hotels in New York City than anywhere in the world and currently operates 13 hotels here with plans to open six more in 2010, including two new high-profile Sheraton properties in Brooklyn and Tribeca, the W New York Downtown and the Four Points by Sheraton Long Island City. In addition, the global hotel giant will debut its two newest brands in the Big Apple with the openings of Aloft New York Brooklyn and Element New York Times Square West, bringing its total number of New York City properties to 19. In addition, the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers, the Sheraton brand’s flagship New York property, will launch a $90 million renovation later this year.

“Starwood is committed to maximizing the value of its owned assets around the world. The Sheraton Manhattan occupies a highly sought after piece of real estate in a prime location, and we’re excited about the prospect of redeveloping it into a flagship Starwood hotel,” said Simon Turner, President of Global Development for Starwood. “This will complement our existing portfolio in Manhattan’s Time Square area that includes the landmark Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers, Westin Times Square and W Times Square as well a the soon-to-open Element Times Square West.”

Beyond New York City, Starwood expects to open 80-100 high quality new-build and conversion hotels in 2010, coming off of the 83 opened and 77 new deals signed in 2009. Of these new hotels, roughly 70 percent will be outside of North America, with the majority in Asia Pacific. And Starwood’s upper upscale and luxury brands are leading the charge, representing more than 60% of the new openings. Among these hotels and resorts is expected to be its 1,000th property globally.

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with 982 properties in more than 100 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis(R), The Luxury Collection(R), W(R), Westin(R), Le Méridien(R), Sheraton(R), Four Points(R) by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft(R), and Element SM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

Starwood’s The Luxury Collection Brand Signs Seven New Deals and Opened Five Hotels in 2009

International Growth and Conversion Opportunities Extend Starwood’s Luxury Leadership

Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) announces today that its world-renowned The Luxury Collection brand has signed two new deals to open the brand’s first hotels in China. The Astor Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is scheduled to open as a Luxury Collection Hotel in May 2010 after a $22 million renovation, and The Malus Sanya, a Luxury Collection Resort, a new-build resort set to open in late 2012. These new developments are illustrative of The Luxury Collection brand’s overall global growth that includes seven new deals and five hotel openings in 2009.

“By working with the right partners on the right properties in the right places, The Luxury Collection has enjoyed steady and strategic international growth in key markets like China even amidst challenging times”

As evidenced by its two new deals in China, the brand’s growth is fueled by strength in Asia Pacific and a notable increase in conversion properties. In fact, of the seven deals for new Luxury Collection hotels, the majority are in Asia Pacific markets like China, India and Malaysia. And nearly half of the recently signed hotels are conversions.

“By working with the right partners on the right properties in the right places, The Luxury Collection has enjoyed steady and strategic international growth in key markets like China even amidst challenging times,” said Simon Turner, President, Global Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “In addition to new-build properties, Starwood is attracting a growing number of owners and developers who seek to rebrand existing properties as Luxury Collection hotels. By doing so, they maintain their independence while tapping into the power and breadth of the Starwood network, including our Starwood Preferred Guest® program, which drives business for owners and provides guests unprecedented access to the world’s finest luxury hotels.”

The Luxury Collection marked an important milestone in October of 2009 with the opening of ITC Royal Gardenia, a Luxury Collection hotel in Bengaluru, India, which is Starwood’s 150th hotel in Asia Pacific. Building on that success in Asia, The Luxury collection continues to grow in the region including the December 2009 re-branding of the iconic The Andaman, a Luxury Collection Resort in Langkawi, Malaysia, and in addition to the two recently signed Chinese hotels, The Luxury Collection will debut the Vana Belle Samui, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa on a secluded cove on the tropical Island of Koh Samui, Thailand.

“The Luxury Collection stands out in its category for delivering authentic, indigenous experiences and an exceptional level of service to its guests – a compelling combination for discerning global travelers,” said Paul James, Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection. “We are proud to serve as a portal to even more of the world’s most enriching and desirable destinations as we continue our global expedition.”

Originated in 1906 as a collection of Europe’s most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble of more than 70 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 30 countries across the globe including Hotel Danieli, Venice; Hotel Imperial, Vienna; Grand Bretagne, Athens; Marques de Riscal, Elciego, Spain; The Laguna Resort, Nusa Dua, Bali; Patios de Cafayate, Argentina; SLS at Beverly Hills; Royal Hawaiian, Waikiki and The Phoenician, Scottsdale.

The Astor Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Tianjin
Scheduled to debut in May 2010, following a $22 million (RMB 150 million) renovation, The Astor Hotel Tianjin features 152 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites, approximately 1,000 square metres of meeting space, five world class restaurants and bars, an indoor swimming pool, and state-of-the-art fitness and business centres.

With a heritage extending more than 140 years, The Astor Hotel first opened in 1863 and is one of China’s most iconic landmarks. Classified as a National Important Historical Relics Protection Unit by the Chinese Government, The Astor Hotel is renowned as the preferred destination for foreign expatriates and local dignitaries. Since its opening, the hotel has gone through several restorations and expansion programs including the building of its second tower which was completed in the late 20th century. The Astor Hotel has played host to VIPS, Heads-of-State and International Diplomats including Dr. Sun Yat-sen and Madam Song Qingling, former United States President Herbert Hoover, the last Emperor Puyi and Empress Wan Rong.

The Astor Hotel is located in the central business district (CBD) of Tianjin at Tai’erzhuang Road, Heping District, facing the Haihe River and Green River and at the back of Victoria Park. It is also a 35 minute drive from the Tianjin International Airport. For more information please visit, www.luxurycollection.com/astor.

The Malus, a Luxury Collection Resort, Sanya
Opening in the autumn of 2012, The Malus Sanya is part of the integrated Haitang Bay Beach Resort district spreading over a site area of 150 square kilometers with 40 kilometres of beachfront. Offering lush landscapes and breathtaking sea views, the resort will offer The Luxury Collection global explorers 160 luxury guest rooms and villas, approximately 300 square meters of meeting space; two signature restaurant and bars; a 24-hour business center; state-of-the-art health club and fitness center; signature spa; outdoor swimming pool; tennis courts; specialty shopping, and will share a recreational centre with the newly opened Sheraton Sanya Haitang Bay Resort.

With its tropical climate, crystalline water and endless azure skies, Hainan is celebrated as the “Hawaii of China,” offering guests the ideal destination for leisure and business retreats. The Malus, Sanya is situated on the southern part of Hainan and Haitang Bay, and is ideally located on the Island’s eastern coastal area. Due to the growing influx of leisure travelers to Hainan, the region is currently constructing its third International Airport only 127 km from Haitang Bay in Boao, Qionghai City. For more information please visit, www.luxurycollection.com/malus.

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with 982 properties in more than 100 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft®, and Element SM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts
The Luxury Collection® is a selection of hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination’s indigenous charms and treasures. Magnificent décor, spectacular settings, impeccable service and the latest modern conveniences combine to provide a uniquely enriching experience. Originated in 1906 as a collection of Europe’s most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble of more than 75 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 30 countries in bustling cities and spectacular destinations around the world. The Luxury Collection includes award-winning properties that continuously exceed guest expectations by offering unparalleled service, style and class while celebrating each hotel’s distinctive heritage and unique character. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world’s finest. For more information, please visit www.luxurycollection.com.

Aloft Abu Dhabi Introduces Style At A Steal In The Capital Of The United Arab Emirates

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.® (NYSE:HOT) and its new destination sensation brand, Aloft® Hotels, today announce the opening of Aloft Abu Dhabi, the first Aloft to open in the Middle East and the second Aloft to open outside of North America.

Ten years after Starwood Hotels & Resorts shook up the hotel industry with the launch of W Hotels, the innovative hotel giant has again reinvented hotel design with the debut of its newest brand, Aloft Hotels. Featuring loft-like guest rooms, a buzzing bar scene in the open lobby, an urban-inspired grab-and go café and industrial design elements throughout, Aloft delivers urban-influenced, modern and vibrant design and an energetic guest experience at an affordable price point.

The debut of Aloft Abu Dhabi highlights the strategic international expansion of the Aloft brand. After opening its first hotel in June 2008 in Canada, Aloft has since grown to nearly 40 hotels strong in three countries – the United States, China and Canada – with the United Arab Emirates marking its fourth. And looking ahead to 2010, Aloft will continue its global growth with slated debut openings in Belgium, India and Thailand. Aloft Abu Dhabi is also the first of two Aloft hotels coming to the Middle East in the next two years, with the Aloft Riyadh scheduled for a 2011 opening.

“The meaningful growth of Aloft in key markets such as the Middle East underscores the strength of the Starwood network and the strength of Starwood’s global relationships with experienced hotel developers,” said Simon Turner, President, Global Development for Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “The Aloft brand’s emphasis on high design and affordability translates globally and is attracting a growing group of developers and travelers who are very enthusiastic consumers of our global, high-caliber brands. In fact, Aloft represents one of the strongest brand launches in industry history, and its international expansion so early in the brand’s life cycle is unprecedented.”

Aloft Abu Dhabi introduces style at a steal to the region with 408 spacious, loft-like rooms, accessible technology and a vibrant, social atmosphere. A Vision of W Hotels, Aloft’s loft-inspired design, accessible technology and a stylish urban attitude arrives on the scene in the Middle East. Aloft offers atmospheric public spaces where guests can mix and mingle, read the paper, work on laptops, play a game of pool or grab a drink with friends at the re:mixSM communal lobby area and w xyzSM bar. The re:chargeSM fitness center and splash pool give travelers options to de-stress and re-energize, or enjoy a meal at Dine, the hotel’s main restaurant with live-cooked international-style cuisine. Feel the buzz of our open kitchen and boost your energy at Dine. re:fuel by Aloft is a one-stop, 24-hour grab & go food and beverage area, offering sweet, savory and healthy food, snacks and beverages. Or visit relax@12, an indoor/outdoor lounge where guests can find oriental bites, yummy tapas and a sassy sushi selection. The re:charge fitness centre and splash, the outdoor pool, give guests options to de-stress and re-energize. Maï Café, the ultimate chill-out spot on the fifth floor, offers exciting international flavours, oversized beach chairs and unique custom cocktails, complimented by our eclectic mix of laid-back tunes and sunny grooves.

“We are thrilled to introduce Aloft to Abu Dhabi, a fitting choice for the brand’s debut in the Middle East,” said Brian McGuinness, Starwood’s Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, Specialty Select Brands. “The hotel’s strategic location in the hub of the capital city makes a bold statement about how the brand is taking its innovative, fresh perspective on hotels to the most desirable locations around the world.”

First time visitors to Aloft will immediately understand that Aloft is different from any other hotel experience. Guests are greeted by special features and visually distinctive iconic structures on the exterior, including a colorful, sloping signature carport cover and building roof-line, and colorful glowing linear light sources on the building facade inspired by the notion of travel and motion.

Aloft guest rooms feature the brand’s signature ceilings of nearly three meters high, oversized windows and an ultra-comfortable bed, as well as roomy walk-in showers and bath amenities created by Bliss® Spa. Each Aloft room is equipped with complimentary wireless Internet access and a one-stop connectivity solution for multiple electronic gadgetry all linked to a 42” flat-panel, HDTV-ready television making it a combination high-tech office and entertainment center in one.

The new hotel is linked directly to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition, Centre (ADNEC), the Gulf’s largest exhibition centre which is at the heart of the Capital Centre district, a micro-city consisting of premium office towers, luxury hotels and residences, restaurants, shopping and a marina. The hotel will even provide guests direct access to the soon-to-open Re:lax@12 rooftop bar, Mai Restaurant & Bar and Dine Restaurant – all located on site. Ideally positioned right next to the Capital Centre district, Aloft Abu Dhabi is close to numerous embassies and corporate offices, 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and 15 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport.

About Aloft Hotels
Created to shake up the staid, traditional select service segment of the hotel industry, Aloft delivers urban-influenced, open and vibrant design and a social guest experience at an affordable price point. In the same way that W Hotels broke through the clutter of conformity in the upscale hotel arena a decade ago, Aloft is shaking up the industry for the next generation of traveler. Aloft hotels are geared toward savvy, design-conscious consumers who grew up with the democratization of design. Aloft hotels are wired for the future and an aggressive growth plan is in place with 40 properties set to be open by the end of this year from Abu Dhabi and Baltimore to Dallas and Beijing and everywhere in between. For more information, please visit www.alofthotels.com.

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with 982 properties in more than 100 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood® Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels and resorts with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, Aloft® and Element(SM). Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

About Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC)
Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) is a strategic international venue development and management company. ADNEC’s venue portfolio includes one of the most modern exhibition centers in the world – the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, and the UK capital’s largest exhibition and conference venue, ExCeL London. ADNEC is creating unique business districts to serve Abu Dhabi’s rapid expansion and emergence on the global stage. Development projects surrounding the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre include Capital Centre (a mixed-use development of 23 hotel, residential, commercial and mixed-use towers adjacent to the exhibition centre), Capital Gate (an iconic 35 storey gravity defying feature tower, featuring the 5-star hotel – ‘Hyatt at Capital Centre’), the Aloft Hotel and a 2.4km Marina zone on Al Bateen Channel opposite to the exhibition centre. In addition, ADNEC is expanding within the region, with The Al Ain Convention Centre, a residential and business micro city around a state-of-the-art convention centre.

Starwood Extends Its Lead as Asia Pacific’s Largest Upper-Upscale and Luxury Hotel Company with the Opening of the ITC Royal Gardenia, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bengaluru

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) reaches another key milestone with the opening of its 150th hotel in Asia Pacific – the ITC Royal Gardenia, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Bengaluru. The opening of the 292-room hotel in India underscores Starwood’s long-term strategic growth plans in Asia Pacific, where it has executed 23 new deals in 2009. This year, Starwood has also opened seven hotels prior to the opening of ITC Royal Gardenia with another seven slated to open by year end.

“Reaching our 150th hotel in Asia Pacific is an important next step for Starwood as we progress on the journey to open our 1,000th hotel and resort worldwide,” said Frits van Paasschen, President and CEO of Starwood. “The growth opportunities in Asia Pacific are unsurpassed perhaps anywhere in the world. And we are working with our best-in-class partners to further extend our position as the region’s largest upper-upscale and luxury hotel company, while strengthening our place as the industry innovator in the select service segment.”

China and India Fuel Starwood’s Growth in Asia Pacific
Starwood’s 150 high-caliber hotels can be found in 20 countries throughout its Asia Pacific Division, with the most significant growth occurring in China and India.

“Starwood has responded to Asia Pacific’s acute need for lodging by working to open top quality conversion and new-build properties throughout this dynamic market.” said Simon Turner, President of Global Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “In particular, China and India are fertile ground for Starwood as developers look to partner with world class brands that offer compelling guest experiences and are backed by powerful centralized sales and marketing systems.”

Within China, Starwood is set to double its current footprint to 100 hotels by 2012. So far in 2009, the company has signed 18 new deals and opened three hotels. Among the four hotel openings in China for the remainder of the year are Le Meridien hotels in Qingdao and Chongqing, a Westin hotel in Tianjin, and a Four Points by Sheraton hotel in Lianyungang. Next year, W is expected to strengthen its presence with the opening of W Guangzhou, and the Luxury Collection brand will make its Chinese debut.

India is now home to 23 Starwood hotels, with another 15 under development. This year, Starwood made significant gains in the market with the debut of the Four Points by Sheraton brand in Mumbai and Jaipur. Meanwhile, developer and consumer favorite, Westin Hotels & Resorts, is set to welcome guests to and within India with three new hotels coming on board later this year in Mumbai, Hyderabad and Pune. And looking ahead to 2010, Starwood will launch its Aloft brand in India, opening the first three of its five hotels in the pipeline.

Starwood Breaks New Ground Throughout Asia Pacific
Beyond China and India, this year Starwood is opening its second Sheraton in Korea and will soon be opening its first Sheraton resort in Vietnam. Starwood also recently signed new deals for a Sheraton resort and spa in New Caledonia and a Le Meridien in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. In 2010, the St. Regis brand will debut in Tibet, Thailand and Japan, while W makes its mark in Thailand and Indonesia. Starwood’s midscale brand, Four Points by Sheraton, is also meaningfully expanding with its first opening in Malaysia in 2009 and its first in Thailand in 2010.

“Starwood has become the hotel industry’s most global company – a position we assumed by remaining focused on working with the right partners in the right places on the right properties,” said Miguel Ko, Chairman & President of Starwood’s Asia Pacific Division. “Starwood continues to closely track both established and emerging markets throughout Asia Pacific to ensure our distinct and compelling brands are everywhere our guests want to be.”

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with 966 properties in more than 100 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft®, and Element SM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

Aloft Arundel Mills Marks The Next Step On Starwood’s Journey To Open Its 1,000th Hotel in 2009

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. celebrates a key milestone today with the opening of the 25th Aloft® hotel worldwide – Aloft Arundel Mills in Hanover, Maryland. With the global growth of the Aloft brand, Starwood continues to progress on its journey to open its 1,000th hotel in 2009.

The Aloft brand debuted in Montreal in June 2008 and opened its first 17 hotels by year end. In 2009, Aloft will grow to more than 40 hotels, opening one new property every two weeks in markets like Phoenix, Denver, Austin, and Washington, D.C. Aloft currently operates hotels in three countries – Canada, China and the United States – and is poised to debut in the Middle East this fall with the Aloft Abu Dhabi. The steady and strategic expansion of Aloft has played a key role in driving Starwood’s growth. In 2009, Starwood expects to add 80-100 new hotels across its nine distinctive and compelling brands, while broadening its portfolio to include 100 countries.

“By focusing on opening the right properties in the right places with the right partners, we expect Aloft to continue to systematically grow in key domestic and international markets, even in the face of a weakened economy,” said Simon Turner, President of Global Development for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “Aloft has attracted growing numbers of owners and developers, many of whom are developing multiple Aloft hotels, who appreciate the brand’s innovation and design, as well as the power of the Starwood network and its leading demand-driving programs like Starwood Preferred Guest®.”

With its loft-inspired rooms, atmospheric public spaces and electric social scene, Aloft hotels are already earning guest satisfaction scores that rival those of Starwood’s luxury hotel brands.

“The Aloft brand has successfully revolutionized the select service hotel category by meeting the needs of today’s travelers,” said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President, Specialty Select Brands, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “With its emphasis on bringing boutique-style hotels to the traveling masses by offering a four star experience at a three star price, Aloft is rapidly gaining worldwide recognition as one of the industry’s most compelling lifestyle brands.”

Aloft Arundel Mills offers 142 rooms in an ideal location, just outside the Baltimore Beltway. A Vision of W Hotels, Aloft is a new destination sensation featuring loft-inspired design, accessible and intuitive technology and a stylish urban attitude. For more information on the Aloft brand, please visit www.alofthotels.com.

About Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with 960 properties in 97 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft®, and ElementSM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com or www.starwoodpressclub.com

The Region’s Fastest Growing Hotel and Leisure Company Is On Track to Open Nearly 20 Best-in-Class Hotels by 2012

From the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) in Dubai, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced today the signing of a hotel within The Luxury Collection brand in Ajman, United Arab Emirates. The new-build, 207-room property is expected to open in 2012, and is illustrative of Starwood’s market leading growth in the region and around the world.

With a focus on working with the right partners on the right properties in the right places, Starwood remains on track to increase its global portfolio by 40 percent over the next five years and is set to open its 1000th hotel worldwide this year. The Middle East plays a key role in the global expansion, with plans to open nearly 20 new hotels in the region by 2012. Of these hotels, 75 percent are in the Gulf, which is a priority market for the future growth of Starwood.

“Our presence in the region dates back to our first Sheraton in Kuwait in 1966,” said Roeland Vos, President, Europe, Africa & Middle East, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “Today, we have an established footprint of 49 properties across 11 countries, and we look forward to continuing to build our presence with best-in-class hotels like The Luxury Collection Hotel in Ajman.”

“By working closely with our proven development partners, Starwood is able to sign and open high caliber hotels like The Luxury Collection Hotel in Ajman, even during challenging economic times,” said Simon Turner, President, Global Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “We are building, opening, converting, renovating and innovating for the recovery and beyond.”

Along with The Luxury Collection, each of Starwood’s compelling and distinctive brands continues to grow in the region. W Hotels, the lifestyle hotel innovator, marked its entry into the Middle East with the recent opening of the W Doha Hotel & Residences. With 10 years of proven success, W Hotels will double its footprint to 60 hotels by 2011, adding new properties in vibrant destinations around the world including Amman, Barcelona, Paris and Shanghai.

St. Regis, recognized globally as the preeminent luxury hotel brand, is developing world-class hotels in Doha, Bahrain and Abu Dhabi. And the Le Méridien brand, which Starwood acquired in 2005, continues to grow its established presence of 21 hotels in the Middle East with a new hotel scheduled to open in Doha in 2011.

Within the upper-upscale segment, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts is growing in both established and emerging markets with new hotels and important renovations such as the Sheraton Oman. This hotel is undergoing a $57 million renovation and is set to reopen December. Westin is expected to open new properties in Abu Dhabi and Aqaba, Jordan by 2012. These new hotels build on the momentum of the 2008 opening of the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi.

Starwood’s new and established select serve brands are seeing growth in the region as well. Four Points by Sheraton is slated to open hotels in Doha, Tripoli, Tartous (Syria), Jeddah and Dhahran in the next three years. This year, the Aloft brand will open its first hotel in the region with the Aloft Abu Dhabi. And Starwood’s green trailblazer, Element, which also launched in 2008, will soon expand with the recent signing of a new hotel also in Abu Dhabi. Upon the opening of this hotel, the Middle East will become the second region in the world to have Starwood’s complete portfolio of nine brands represented – each of which is backed by the power of Starwood Preferred Guest®.

About Starwood Hotels & Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 960 properties in approximately 97 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched AloftSM, and ElementSM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

Specialty Select Brands Reach Meaningful Milestones Along Starwood’s Journey to 1,000 Hotels & Resorts

From the AAHOA Lodging Conference in Washington D.C., Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announces it remains on-track on its journey to open its 1,000th hotel and resort this year. Contributing to the company’s growth is its best-in-class Specialty Select Group, which is comprised of three distinct select service brands – Aloft, Element and Four Points by Sheraton. In the next two months alone, Starwood will open the 25th Aloft worldwide, the fifth Element and the first Four Points by Sheraton based on the new design prototype, which is also the 137th property worldwide.

“With a focus on working with the right partners, on the right properties, in the right places, Starwood and our proven development partners are positioned for success during the recovery and beyond,” said Simon Turner, President of Global Development for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “Starwood is an established leader in the upper-upscale and luxury segments, and the growth of our high-caliber, moderately priced lifestyle brands allows us to better meet the needs of both developers and guests in key markets around the world. As we open these hotels, our powerful programs like Starwood Preferred Guest are driving occupancy as its members provide a foundation in soft markets – staying more and spending more.”

Starwood’s Specialty Select portfolio has benefited from the reinvention of the Four Points by Sheraton brand, as well as from the development community’s enthusiasm for Starwood’s newest brands, Aloft and Element. Less than one year after their global debut, Starwood’s newest lifestyle brands, Aloft and Element, continue to experience steady growth, building on the more than 100 hotels signed at the brands’ launch.

“Our compelling Specialty Select brands complement rather than compete with each other and provide developers innovative solutions to meet the needs of consumers in each individual market,” said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President of Aloft, Element and Four Points by Sheraton. “The success we are experiencing with these brands, even during tough times, is a testament to the power of Starwood and our development partners.”

The Rejuvenated Four Points by Sheraton Drives Growth and Scores Well with Guests
Four Points by Sheraton is currently experiencing the strongest growth momentum in its history. In 2009, the brand expects to open more than 20 hotels in 11 countries, including its first in India this summer. Since January, it has opened hotels in Malaysia, Mexico and the United States. Next month, the brand opens its flagship vacation hotel in Punta Gorda, Florida. The brand’s new prototype design also makes its debut in May with the Four Points by Sheraton San Antonio Northwest. And this summer, Four Points by Sheraton will rise to new heights with a 30-story hotel in Times Square.

Starwood’s strategy to improve the quality and consistency of the Four Points by Sheraton brand has resulted in a 70 percent turnover in the portfolio over the last five years through an investment of more than $1 billion in major property renovations, conversions, and new build hotels. The brand’s emphasis on uncomplicated comfort continues to strike a chord with guests, as evidenced by steady gains in JD Power Guest Satisfaction scores and a 13 percent point gain in brand awareness since 2004.

Aloft Set to Double Presence in 2009
Aloft takes the DNA of W to the upscale select service category, and has proved to be a popular choice among developers and travelers. Representing one of the most successful launches in the industry, Aloft opened its first 17 hotels in 2008 in three countries – the United States, Canada and China – and expects to more than double its footprint this year. Aloft will open two hotels per month in 2009, and has kept pace with eight openings since January in markets including Washington, D.C.; Charlotte, N.C.; San Antonio; Tempe, Ariz. and Green Bay, Wis. In May, Aloft will mark a meaningful milestone with the opening of its 25th hotel worldwide, which will be located just outside Baltimore in Arundel Mills, Maryland. In September, the brand is slated to make its debut in the Middle East with the Aloft Abu Dhabi.

Element Adds Four Hotels in 2009
Starwood’s green trailblazer, Element, opened its first two hotels in 2008 and its first in 2009 with the Element Houston Vintage Park. The brand expects to open three more this year in Denver; Baltimore; and Irving, Texas. Beyond the United States, Element has long term plans to add hotels in targeted international markets, such as Canada and the United Arab Emirates. With Element, Starwood developed an economically responsible LEED-certified hotel concept that is accessible to developers and delivers an environmentally conscious hotel experience without compromising on comfort. Guest satisfaction scores for the green trailblazer are at levels traditionally reserved exclusively for luxury brands.

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with 960 properties in 97 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft®, and Element SM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

From the American Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS) in San Diego, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. today announces it will open its 1000th hotel in 2009. The milestone comes as part of the company’s plan to open 100 hotels this year in diverse markets throughout the world.

Focused on opening the right properties in the right places with the right partners, Starwood remains on-track to expand its portfolio by more than 40 percent in the next five years. Starwood’s pipeline consists of more than 400 hotels – 60 percent of which currently are outside of the United States.

“By working closely with our development partners, we are able to open high caliber, best-in-class hotels around the world, even during challenging economic times,” said Simon Turner, President of Global Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “Starwood is building, opening, converting, renovating and innovating for the recovery and beyond, and these new hotels will further position Starwood and its development partners for long term growth and success.”

2009 marks a year of significant milestones and meaningful growth for Starwood and its portfolio of nine distinctive and compelling brands. Celebrating 10 years of proven success, W Hotels will triple its portfolio in the next three years. The once New York-centric wonder is transforming into a global phenomenon, opening 13 properties this year in markets including Barcelona, Bali, Doha and Santiago, as well as Atlanta, South Beach, Hollywood and Washington D.C.

As part of its $4 billion revitalization program, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts expects to open 18 hotels in high-profile destinations like New York City; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Istanbul, Turkey; Prague, Czech Republic; and Qiandao, China. The iconic brand is also scheduled to complete its goal of renovating nearly 100 hotels at an investment of $1.3 billion. Westin Hotels & Resorts expects to open 11 hotels this year in dynamic international cities including Montreal, Mumbai, Shanghai, Mexico City and Houston.

After opening 17 hotels in the U.S., Canada and China in 2008, Aloft will double its portfolio in 2009 with openings in Houston; Phoenix; and Abu Dhabi, UAE, among others. And Starwood’s green trailblazer, Element, expects to open five more hotels this year in U.S. markets such as Houston and Denver. Four Points by Sheraton continues to be a major growth vehicle for Starwood and is set to open nearly 30 hotels in 2009, including one in New York City’s Times Square; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Winnipeg, Canada, and its first new prototype, which is slated to be in San Antonio.

2009 began with St. Regis opening a new resort in Punta Mita, Mexico. The luxury brand will ramp up its global expansion with plans to open an additional four hotels in 2009, including properties in Atlanta; Park City, Utah; Mexico City; and Lhasa, China. The Luxury Collection entered the year celebrating the recent opening of a hotel in Beverly Hills and continues to grow with more than 10 hotels in its pipeline. And Le Meridien has nearly 20 hotels in development and four openings planned this year in markets around the world. Notably, the brand is making further inroads in North America, with plans to open hotels in Dallas and Philadelphia.

About Starwood Hotels & Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 940 properties in approximately 97 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis(R), The Luxury Collection(R), W(R), Westin(R), Le Meridien(R), Sheraton(R), Four Points(R) by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft(SM), and Element(SM). Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.