Hilton Worldwide has been confirmed as the new operator for the Al Maqta Hotel Abu Dhabi, previously managed by Europe’s Rocco Forte Hotels.
The hotel, which opened back in November 2011 and is famed for its curved glass exterior, will rebrand and re-open as Hilton Abu Dhabi Capital Grand in summer 2013.
Hilton Worldwide Middle East and Africa president Rudi Jagersbacher said: “We are delighted to have signed such a prestigious deal for this unique, quality hotel in Abu Dhabi and in an emerging business community”.
The hotel, which was developed by Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) and owner UAE-based Al Farida Investments Company, will undergo a series of brand changes before joining the Hilton Hotels & Resorts portfolio.
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It features a 700-capacity grand ballroom with a separate 500-capacity function room, five large meeting rooms, two boardrooms and a VIP Majilis with private entrance.
Leisure facilities include seven F&B outlets and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
HE Sheikh Hamed Bin Ahmad Al Hamed of owning company, Al Farida Investment Company LLC, said: “We are delighted to bring the enviable reputation and quality service standards enjoyed by Hilton Worldwide to this outstanding hotel. The combination of a stunningly designed property together with the management expertise of such a reliable and respected hospitality provider will ensure a promising and successful future for Hilton Abu Dhabi Capital Grand”.
In an interview with Hotelier upon the launch of Rocco Forte Abu Dhabi in 2011, Sir Rocco Forte said he was confident in the Abu Dhabi hotel’s potential, but acknowledged that competition posed by a flurry of other hotel launches at the time was likely to cause challenges.
“The Abu Dhabi market has been strong in the last 12 months, with high occupancy. There are a lot of new five-star hotels opening which will make things difficult for a year or so until the demand catches up with supply,” he said.
The UAE capital welcomed a record 2.3 million visitors during 2012 with ambitious plans to attract a further 200,000 travellers during 2013
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