While the UAE can expect several large-scale hotel openings in the next few years – 2016 is gearing up for the launch of the Four Seasons Abu Dhabi and The Langham, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai – there's still plenty to get excited about in the final months of 2015. Several must-visit properties are expected to launch between now and December 31, including five-star, luxury resorts and a handful of local brands. Here's what you can look forward to.
Abu Dhabi
Capital Centre Arjaan by Rotana
Rotana will add to its UAE portfolio of more than 30 properties next month when the Capital Centre Arjaan by Rotana opens its doors. The hotel, which is taking bookings for stays from October 1, will feature 259 fully furnished studios and suites, making it ideal for long-term business travellers and families. Situated near Adnec, the new hotel offers all-day dining at its restaurant, Tamarind. Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club is also available to guests. It includes a gym, a temperature-controlled outdoor swimming pool and separate saunas for men and women. Guests can book a massage with one of the hotel's therapists or a session with a personal trainer. Rooms cost from Dh547 per night, including taxes. For more information, visit www.rotana.com.
Jannah Burj Al Sarab
The UAE hotel brand Jannah Hotels & Resorts recently added its fifth property to its local portfolio. While the hotel is currently open for guests during its soft-opening phase, the official launch is set for the end of this month, and will include the opening of the hotel's beauty centre. The Jannah Burj Al Sarab, located on Mina Street in the heart of Abu Dhabi's business district, caters for business and leisure travellers. The hotel has 318 rooms and suites, an à la carte restaurant and a rooftop wellness area that includes a gym, pool and Jacuzzi. There are a number of watersports that guests can enjoy, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and kitesurfing classes. The hotel has a 24-hour concierge service, along with other services such as babysitting, and there's also a personalised, in-room spa service available. Rooms cost from Dh365 per night, including taxes. For more information, visit www.jannah.ae.
Dubai
Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai
The luxury lifestyle brand plans to open its beach club at the end of this year, with the rest of the resort to open in early 2016. The beachfront resort will be located in the new Pearl Jumeirah property, spread across more than 52,000 square metres. It will feature 117 rooms and suites, 15 villas and 61 lifestyle residences, some of which will include private pools, outdoor showers, sky lounges and large roof terraces. Though in proximity to a number of other restaurants, the resort offers plenty of in-house dining options, including the Nikki Beach Club & Restaurant, Cafe Nikki and Caribbean Seafood Restaurant. Guests will also be able to take advantage of the Tone Fitness facilities, tennis courts and selection of water sports. For more information, visit www.nikkibeachhotels.com.
St Regis Dubai
More than 100 years after first opening its doors on New York's Fifth Avenue, the St Regis will bring its iconic brand to Dubai. The new hotel – situated off Sheikh Zayed Road – will sit on the banks of the Dubai Water Canal, a short drive from the Burj Khalifa. It's set to open on November 15, offering 182 guest rooms and 51 signature suites. Inside, the architecture takes its inspiration from New York's Gilded Age – think late-19th century – and includes grand staircases and carefully selected artwork. Guests will have access to a variety of restaurants and lounges, including J&G Steakhouse, Cafe Fleuri and The Roof Gardens. Outdoor rooftop pools will be a feature, as will the childcare service for those with little ones. The Iridium Spa will offer a number of spa packages, while the hotel's signature 24-hour butler service will also be available. For more information, visit www.starwoodhotels.com.
W Dubai Al Habtoor City
While many of the details of this new property are being kept under wraps, the W Dubai Al Habtoor City is expected to launch in November, adjacent to the St Regis Dubai. This will be the first W Hotel in the UAE, though there are plans for two more – the W Abu Dhabi and W Dubai, The Palm – in 2017 and 2018. The 27-floor property will provide guests a selection of dining options, including its signature restaurant, Indulge at Namu. There are also plans to include a Fit gym as part of the hotel's facilities. For more information, visit www.starwoodhotels.com.
Sharjah
Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa
Dubai and Abu Dhabi aren't the only two emirates looking forward to openings this autumn. – the Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa opens on September 15. Overlooking the Arabian Gulf and minutes away from the Sharjah Aquarium and Sharjah Heritage Museum, the hotel has 349 rooms and suites. Guests will have access to the resort's private beach and leisure facilities, which include the Sheraton Fitness centre and pool. A number of watersports will be available, as is the option to book a personal trainer or enjoy treatments at the Shine Spa. The resort also boats a number of restaurants and lounges, including the Link@Sheraton Cafe, Gusti and the Seafood Market. Rooms cost from Dh780 per night, including taxes. For more information, visit www.sheratonsharjah.com.
Ones to watch in 2016
Dubai
The Langham, Palm Jumeirah
The hotel that first served the traditional “afternoon tea” in London is now planning to launch in the UAE. The property will feature 323 rooms, all with outdoor terraces and seafront views. A number of restaurants and bars will be on offer, many with alfresco dining. A Chuan Spa and sizeable recreation facilities will also be available to guests.
Viceroy Dubai, Palm Jumeirah
Making its debut in Dubai, the Viceroy will feature 477 rooms, all overlooking the Arabian Gulf. A boutique spa, with an array of treatments, will be available, as will indoor fitness facilities, three outdoor swimming pools and a kids’ club.
Abu Dhabi
Four Seasons Abu Dhabi
Al Maryah Island will host Abu Dhabi’s first Four Seasons. The property will feature 190 rooms, a rooftop pool, male and female fitness centres, a spa and salon. Guests will also have a number of eateries to choose from.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi – Grand Marina
Marking the brand’s second hotel in Abu Dhabi, the new property will boast 184 rooms and serviced apartments, situated next to the existing InterContinental Abu Dhabi. A number of food options will be available, including a fine-dining restaurant with a rooftop bar. Guests will also have access to several entertainment facilities.
alane@thenational.ae
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