Abu Dhabi property developer Aldar has announced plans for a major upgrade of its hotels in the country, as it transforms its portfolio and partners with key international hotel brands.
The company says it is responding to changing demands from the growing number of international visitors to Abu Dhabi, which is seeing more people looking for premium experiences. Hotel guest numbers were up 27% in 2023, with international guest arrivals growing 54%, as the country’s Department of Culture and Tourism pulls together a combined effort to grow the emirate’s tourism numbers. By 2030, the target is to welcome 39.3m visitors, helped by the opening of new capacity at Zayed airport, and the promotion of attractions such as Saadiyat Cultural District, and Yas Island.
Connecting with global brands
Aldar will be partnering with Hilton to upgrade its Mangroves hotel and rebrand it as a Waldorf Astoria. A comprehensive upgrade of the property is planned, while Aldar is also considering the addition of new residential and retail space, and improvements to the development’s marina and promenade.
Two more sites are to be improved and signed to InterContinental Hotels’ collection brand, Vignette. At Yas Plaza, a six hotel complex, Aldar is to modify the site’s masterplan to turn it into a single, fully integrated resort. Renamed Straylight Yas, it will enjoy a new private beach, with the addition of beachfront suites. Combined, the hotel blocks will become the world’s largest Vignette Collection property.
The hotels add up to 1,389 rooms and will operate under a franchise agreement. Following the refurbishment and repositioning work, the complex is expected to open in the last quarter of 2025.
Also joining IHG’s Vignette Collection is the Tilal Liwa desert resort. This will be upgraded to become a luxury desert escape, with renovation of its food and beverage choices, its kids club and spa. With 110 rooms, this is expected to launch under its new flag in the second quarter of 2025.
Upgrades across the portfolio
Other hospitality destinations will also be getting a refresh. The Nurai Island resort will be refurbished and expanded, while the W Abu Dhabi on Yas Island will retain its branding and will enjoy the addition of two new eateries, featuring international dining concepts, Brooklyn Chop House and Pappas Taverna.
In Ras Al Khaimah, two other already branded hotels will be benefitting from phased renovations. Rixos Al Bahr, and the DoubleTree by Hilton resort on Marjan Island will have improvements including redecorated guestrooms, and expanded public spaces and entertainment offerings.
Looking further ahead, Aldar has plans to continue to grow its hotel portfolio in the region. A previously announced Nobu hotel is in development, to open on Saadiyat Island in 2027.
