He adds: “Everybody has a beautiful property, but we’re focusing on legendary service and on these little tie-ins of making sure that we pay respect to where we are. People really appreciate that. Today’s luxury traveller wants a bespoke experience. Everything we’ve done in each of the areas, in addition to our guest rooms and spa, speaks to that.”
And in spite of the general political and economic uncertainty, Greybanks adds that this is actually a great time to be in Abu Dhabi.
According to the latest figures released by TCA Abu Dhabi, hotel occupancy increased by 4% in March 2016 (83%) in comparison to 2015, and the number of guests showed an increase of 11% in year to date (January-March) 2016 when compared to last year, with the total number of hotel guest arrivals at 1,115,547.
However, YTD figures showed that total revenue for hotel establishments recorded 6% decrease (AED 1,719 billion), room revenue decreased by 9%, while F&B revenue decreased by 3%.
Greybanks says: “The market intelligence and figures that you see are positive. There is an increase in visitor numbers into Abu Dhabi, and we believe that opening the first Four Seasons in the UAE’s capital is also a strong message. From what I’ve seen so far from our business on the books, and patterns, they are true to our strategy. We’ve seen strong performance on our website since we launched in January. We have also been very enthusiastically welcomed by the local corporate market and the events market.”
MICE is going to be a big focus for the hotel, with 1,918m2 of space that can accommodate groups with up to 530 guests. It will have two ballrooms including a grand ballroom accessed by its own entrance and an expansive terrace overlooking the water and city. It also has five smaller spaces ideal for breakouts and board meetings as well as more intimate gatherings.
Greybanks concludes: “Of course the strategy will change as the market develops but I believe it’s a positive time in Abu Dhabi to have a Four Seasons, but also on Al Maryah Island as owners and partners on the island have built the infrastructure to attract a new market.”
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