Aldar Properties is investing 5 billion to transform its hotel assets into luxury resort-style properties, a move that aligns with the increasing demand for premium hospitality experiences in Abu Dhabi. This surge in demand is driven by the rapid expansion of the leisure and tourism sector in the region. As part of this strategic initiative, Aldar has partnered with Hilton to operate the Eastern Mangroves hotel under the prestigious Waldorf Astoria brand. Additionally, Yas Plaza and the desert resort formerly known as Tilal Liwa will be rebranded under the Vignette Collection brand, an IHG Hotels & Resorts concept. Notably, the Yas Plaza hotels will become the largest Vignette Collection resort in the world.
Abu Dhabi has seen a significant increase in hotel guests, with a 27% rise in 2023 compared to the previous year, and international guest arrivals jumping by 54%. This growth is in line with the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi's strategy to boost visitor numbers to 39.3 million by 2030. The opening of the new terminal at Zayed International Airport, which has a capacity for 45 million passengers, and the success of world-class attractions in Saadiyat Cultural District and Yas Island have further supported this growth.
Talal Al Dhiyebi, group chief executive officer of Aldar, commented: "The UAE continues to strengthen its position as a premier international leisure and tourism destination, and the government has a clear vision to further develop tourism infrastructure and attractions. In this context, we see a significant opportunity to enhance and reposition our hotel portfolio to meet the expected demand in the luxury segment, while maximizing the revenue potential of each asset. We are also thrilled to offer our customers the chance to experience two world-class hospitality brands in Abu Dhabi for the first time."
At Yas Plaza, Aldar is revising its masterplan to transform the six-hotel complex into a fully integrated resort operated by IHG’s ‘Vignette Collection’ brand, to be renamed Straylight Yas. This transformation will include access to a private beach and the addition of beachfront suites, enhancing guest options. Upon completion, the resort is expected to become Yas Island's premier destination for both international and local guests, complementing the island's vision as a leading leisure and entertainment hub.
The Eastern Mangroves hotel will be rebranded as the Waldorf Astoria Abu Dhabi. Aldar will also introduce luxury residential living as part of the broader master plan, with enhancements to the promenade and marina, and a new retail mix. Nurai Island is undergoing a major refurbishment and expansion to maintain its status as Abu Dhabi's ultra-luxury hospitality destination. The existing villas, F&B options, spa, gym, and beach club will be renovated, followed by a significant expansion to include additional luxurious villas, a ballroom, a community hub, and a jetty, making it the largest resort of its kind in the region.
Aldar is repositioning its desert resort in the Al Dhafra region (formerly Tilal Liwa) into a luxury desert escape, operated by IHG’s Vignette Collection. The property will feature new luxury suites, curated desert experiences, and upgrades to the F&B offering, kids club, and spa facilities. Additionally, Aldar will elevate the guest experience at the W Abu Dhabi hotel on Yas Island by introducing new internationally renowned dining concepts, Brooklyn Chop House and Pappas Taverna, bringing New York-style dining to the vibrant W Hotel by the end of 2024.
Aldar’s flagship hospitality assets in Ras Al Khaimah, Rixos Bab Al Bahr and DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island, are undergoing phased renovations to upgrade guest rooms and expand and refurbish public spaces, F&B, and entertainment offerings. This project aligns with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority’s strategic growth plan, which has seen a record 1.22 million overnight arrivals in 2023, bolstered by a 24% year-on-year increase in international visitors.
Aldar’s latest investment in its hospitality portfolio complements previously announced plans to develop Nobu Hotel, an iconic hospitality experience set to be unveiled on Saadiyat Island in 2027. Aldar’s ambitious plans for hospitality reflect the significant investment across the business, guided by a strategy for transformational growth, driving rapid expansion and diversification alongside consistent upgrade and optimization of Aldar’s assets and operating platforms.
