Yas Island, where the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will take place. Yas Island, where the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will take place.

 Yas Island’s hotels will have to focus on building a strong local customer base if they wish to fill their F&B outlets after the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November,  outlet operators have said.

Crowne Plaza and Staybridge Suites Abu Dhabi Yas Island F&B director Rhys Owain admitted it would be “a challenge” attracting diners to Yas Island, given the development’s distance from the city centre.

“But with the Saadiyat freeway scheduled to open in the near future, commuting time will be reduced dramatically,” he pointed out.

“And we mustn’t forget that we have a target market on our doorstep, which we will of course be working hard on developing strong customer loyalty with.

“Areas like Al Raha Gardens, Khalifa A and B and Mohammed Bin Zayed city are all within a 20-minute drive from our hotels.

Story continues below
Advertisement

“And by ensuring that we have a constant stream of events and regular promotions, we will ensure that we develop a strong local customer base.”

Aldar Hotels and Hospitality managing director Paul Bell pointed out that the island would feature a total of 34 restaurants, “all offering a very different dining experience”.

“We expect these restaurants will be welcomed by the Abu Dhabi community as a refreshing addition to the city’s existing dining options,” he said.

Meanwhile Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island executive assistant manager in charge of F&B Tim Van Veen agreed that a pro-active approach from all Yas Island properties would be integral to their success.

“We have many promotions and interesting events planned at our restaurants, in both the Radisson Blu Hotel and the Park Inn,” he said.