Viceroy out, W Hotels in at Yas Island

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The spectacular Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi has been re-branded under Marriott International’s funky W Hotels brand after owner Aldar Properties appointed Marriott to manage the hotel. Straddling the Yas Marina Formula 1 race track, the Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi has been removed from Viceroy’s website with effect 1 July 2018. “Marriott International will assume operation of the Yas Island hotel, which will go through a refurbishment period before opening under W Hotels – marking the debut of the brand in Abu Dhabi,” Aldar Properties said. “Areas across the hotel will be refreshed and redesigned as per W Hotels’ brand standards, with an upgrade to its lobby and pool facilities, while remaining open to guests.” 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 President and Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Alex Kyriakidis said the hotelier was delighted to introduce the W Hotels brand to Yas Island and bring “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.”

Another Viceroy Abu Dhabi project in the works

Aldar’s partnership with Marriott International on the Yas Island hotel doesn’t, however, mean an end to its alliance with the luxury accommodation provider. A day after announcing the hotel re-brand, Aldar confirmed it is already working on another “hospitality project” in Abu Dhabi with Viceroy Hotel Group. “Abu Dhabi continues to cement its reputation as a leading tourism destination for business and leisure travellers alike. We are pleased to continue our relationship with Viceroy Hotel Group on this hospitality project in line with our strategy to leverage partnerships with international operators and brands for our portfolio of 11 hotels,” Aldar Properties’ Chief Investment Officer Jassem Busaibe said.

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