8. Element Abu Dhabi
In 2008 Starwood Hotels announced the debut of its long-stay Element brand outside North America, a new-build property in Abu Dhabi due to open in 2011.
The hotel was to feature 270 extended-stay units, located in Abu Dhabi's $2.3 billion Capital Centre, a mixed-use development.
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A spin-off from the group’s Westin brand, Starwood placed particular emphasis on green construction and design techniques for the new Element concept.
However in 2011 the company said the first Starwood Hotels and Resorts Element hotel planned for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) had been put on hold.
"The project is delayed. Unfortunately, we are unable at present to provide a likely opening date. As we get more information from the developers, we will pass it on," Guido de Wilde, Starwood's senior vice president and regional director — Middle East, said in comments published by us.
A spokesperson from Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), master-developer of Capital Centre, confirmed: “The project is currently on hold pending a review of market conditions.”
The property was expected to feature 36 studios, 144 one-bedroom guest rooms and 90 two-bedroom units, a restaurant, swimming pool and fitness centre.
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