Premiun brand Mandarin Oriental is to make its Middle East debut managing a new luxury resort and residences on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
The property, developed by Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), is scheduled to open in 2013.
“We are delighted to bring Mandarin Oriental’s renowned hospitality to the Middle East region for the first time. We look forward to working with TDIC on creating an exceptional experience for visitors to what will become one of the most extraordinary luxury resort destinations in the Middle East,” said group chief executive, Edouard Ettedgui of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.
Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi will feature 160 luxurious guest rooms and suites, as well as 35 serviced apartments and 50 branded residences. All guest rooms will be spacious and elegantly styled, with subtle design touches reflecting the group’s Oriental heritage.
Mandarin Oriental’s renowned customer-centric and highly sophisticated in-room entertainment systems will be a prominent feature.
The property will house a Spa at Mandarin Oriental introducing the group’s award-winning spa concepts to a new audience, providing holistic rejuvenation and relaxation in a serene, meditative setting. Innovative dining opportunities will abound in six eclectic restaurants and bars and the hotel will also feature extensive and elegant meeting and banqueting rooms.
Further leisure facilities include a private beach club, a comprehensive fitness centre and a large outdoor swimming pool. Guests will have preferred access to the 18-hole championship Saadiyat Beach Golf Course designed by Gary Player, which will wrap around the resort.
Mubarak Al Muhairi, managing director of TDIC, commented: “We are pleased to partner with Mandarin Oriental on the group’s first ever Middle East venture. TDIC aspires to provide unprecedented levels of luxury hospitality in Abu Dhabi and Mandarin Oriental will complement the distinctive leisure offerings.”
Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi will be located on Saadiyat Island, the natural island situated 500-m offshore of Abu Dhabi city. The hotel will sit on a pristine stretch of beach with protected sand dunes and extensive ocean views.