Bill Walshe, CEO of Viceroy Hotel Group, commented: “We are excited by what the next chapter brings for Viceroy Hotel Group in the region. Aldar has been and will continue to be a very important partner. We look forward to working with them in the drive to position Abu Dhabi globally.”
Post July 1, Marriott International will assume operation of the Yas Island hotel, which was so far being operated by Viceroy. It will go through a refurbishment and will open again under W Hotels. In accordance with the W Hotel’s brand standards, certain areas of the hotel will be redesigned, with an upgrade to the lobby and pool facilities.
Commenting on the announcement, Talal Al Dhiyebi, chief executive officer of Aldar Properties, said: “Appointing Marriott International to manage the operations of our Yas Island hotel supports our strategy to employ the most reputable international operators and reflects our active approach to the management of our portfolio. Marriott International’s experience will ensure guests have a memorable stay at our world-class hotel, while driving value for our asset management business. Our enviable portfolio of 11 hotels, including the recently acquired Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa and Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, positions us well to drive the activation of Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, and cater for the increasing number of tourists visiting Abu Dhabi.”
Alex Kyriakidis, president and managing director, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International commented: “We are delighted to work with Aldar to introduce W Hotels on Yas Island, bringing a new dimension to the luxury and lifestyle hospitality offering on the iconic landmark. Marriott International and Aldar share a similar vision for this project and we look forward to infusing the energy and innovative mind-set of the brand into a vibrant destination such as Yas Island. This hotel marks our 13th property in Abu Dhabi and adds to our diverse brand portfolio in the capital, complementing the destination and the diverse traveller it attracts today.”