The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has announced a major development and expansion initiative that will increase its property portfolio to 100 resorts and hotels across the globe by 2016.

Herve Humler, president and chief operations officer, said: "The robust pipeline of hotel projects indicates a strong ongoing demand for Ritz-Carlton products and services. We are delighted at the company’s continued positive growth,"

The company has opened three iconic properties over the last year, including The Ritz-Carlton in Abu Dhabi, a beach-front resort; Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Puerto Rico; and the brand’s first hotel in Vienna.