Dubai:W Hotels Worldwide, which describes itself as the hotel-category buster and industry innovator, said it has signed an agreement with Belbadi, a local UAE multi-disciplinary corporation, to bring the design-led lifestyle brand to the UAE in 2013.
W Abu Dhabi, on the waterfront at Al Bateen Wharf, will be part of a multi-component development to include high-end retail stores, restaurants and residences.
Developers say it will offer stunning views over the marina and the open sea. The luxury boutique hotel is expected to feature 350 guest rooms, including 25 suites and two "Extreme Wow" suites — W's answer to the Presidential suite, a spa, three restaurants, a lounge and a rooftop night club.
"Abu Dhabi is an important market for Starwood as we continue a strong growth pace in this booming, vibrant capital of the UAE," said Roeland Vos, President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe Africa and Middle East.
"With Abu Dhabi joining the roster of international openings for W over the next two years, we are honoured to partner with Belbadi as we add this key destination to W's global portfolio."
W Abu Dhabi will offer W brand exclusives including W's signature living room-style lobby, five pools and a fitness centre.
The hotel also expected to feature more than 5,000 square metres of meeting and event space, a full-service business centre and a full tourist service.
