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Your Essential Destination and Meetings Guide abudhabi 2012
Your essential destination and meetings guide
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Welcome Editorial GROUP editor Faye Rowe production editor Debra Freeman-Thorpe CONTRIBUTING editor Amanda Tomlinson
Studio Senior Art Director Andrea Tempesta Senior Designers Kelly Massie, Prachi Bhaumik,Tim MacDonald contributing Designer Tia Seifert Photographer Adham Sneeh Production Coordinator Naveed Aziz
Advertising ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER Irene Fernandez International sales manager Rose D'Souza sales SUPPORT Kirat Sabharwal sales Coordinators Michelle Hirao, Carol Milan
Publishing Publisher Rob Nicholas Cover image: City Skyline from Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club, Getty Images
Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this publication, NPI cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies contained within it. All information contained in this publication is under copyright to NPI and cannot be reproduced or transmitted in any form, without first obtaining written permission from the publisher. Nicholas Publishing International FZ LLC PO Box 500573, Office 704, Executive Heights (Damac Building), Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 4243600 Fax: +971 4 4327505 Email: meet@npimedia.com Web: www.meetmiddleeast.com
Abu Dhabi has been making great strides towards building a tourism product that stands alone in the Gulf and business tourism has been placed front and centre of its plans and initiatives. Last year was a ground-breaking year when tourism targets were comfortably exceeded as the capital welcomed an impressive 2,111,611 visitors. The numbers have been boosted by major developments in two particular areas: hospitality infrastructure and major events. The pipeline of new hotels in the capital has received a great deal of publicity as Abu Dhabi works its way towards an ambitious plan to attract 7.9 million tourists per year by 2030. Meanwhile, hotel rooms in the emirate are forecast to rise to 21,000 in 2013, 49,000 by 2020 and 74,000 by 2030. In the next year alone, Abu Dhabiﾃ不 room stock will increase by almost 30 percent. However, the value proposition for meetings groups is unrivalled, thanks to the availability of five-star meeting venues and hotel rooms at competitive prices. Infrastructure at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) along with a comprehensive hospitality infrastructure and the facilitating management of Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority that spearheads congress bids, have attracted an unprecedented number of association meetings to Abu Dhabi in the last year, as well as a healthy pipeline of future events. These have included the recent World Ophthalmology Congress, contributing an estimated US$22 million to the economy in a recent impact study. At the same time, Abu Dhabi has an events calendar to put most other destinations to shame. These alone have drawn in an estimated two million visitors in 2011. When it comes to meetings, delegates are assured of both the best venues and a full social calendar where activities span sports, entertainment, heritage, eco-tourism and wildlife, shopping, dining and relaxation. Make sure Abu Dhabi is on your meeting plans for the forthcoming year. Rob Nicholas Publisher | NPI Media
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abu dhabi: contents abu dhabi 2012
useful info
introduction
INCENTIVES
Attractions key
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30 PLAY AWAY Incentives in the capital
Ideal for Group size Timings Top tip
FACT FILE Language, location, currency and culture
ACTIVITIES 8 CONNECTING ABU DHABI How to choose the best airport for your needs 10 SEEING IS BELIEVING The Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority: moves to grow the region as a mustvisit tourism destination 14 GRAND BRANDS Sports, arts and entertainment: Abu Dhabi brings in the brands
34 FUN IN THE SUN Outdoor activities abound 38 in POLE POSITION Yas Island: fast-tracked to the top of the incentive tree 42 WINNING FORMULA Sports events: Abu Dhabi is on the leader board 46 PARADISE ISLAND Sir Bani Yas Island: the eco-tourism destination
ATTRACTIONS MEETINGS 18 Modern METROPOLIS City life in lights 20 Culture classic A peek at history in the making
50 CONVENTION CREDENTIALS Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre update
64 THE STRESS TEST Rejuvenate or relax in a soothing spa 66 CULINARY KUDOS A luscious list of cafÂŽ and restaurant hotspots 68 SHOP TALK Where to enjoy retail therapy
hotels 74 HOTEL VENUES A comprehensive list of the leading hotels the region has to offer 118 WHERE TO STAY An easy reference guide for meeting capacity facts and figures, plus information on venue facilities
SERVICES 125 SUPPORT SERVICES 127 CALENDAR of events
INFRASTRUCTURE 22 Fair isles Island hop to unique venues 24 Nature tale Watching wildlife 26 Eastern promise On a tour of Al Ain 28 Outside the box Beyond the city limits
54 FORWARD THINKING Abu Dhabi is striving forward with a wave of new developments
LEISURE 60 ON AND OFF THE GREENS Golf resort facilities offer perfect luxury for all
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introduction: fact file abu dhabi 2012
fact file
Essential information to help you make the most of your visit to Abu Dhabi
Customs: No customs duty is levied on
Electricity: The electrical system is based
personal effects entering Abu Dhabi. It is forbidden to import drugs and pornographic items. Luggage is X-rayed at Abu Dhabi International Airport on arrival and DVD/videos, books and magazines may be checked. DVD/videotapes may be confiscated temporarily for the content to be checked.
on 220/240 AC volts. US-made appliances may require an adaptor.
Photography: Tourist photography is allowed, but it is considered offensive to photograph Muslim women. It is always courteous to ask permission before taking pictures. Alcohol: Alcohol is permitted for non-Muslims
Language: The official language of the UAE is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in the hospitality industry. Guides and facilitators who speak other languages are also available.
Currency: The monetary unit is the UAE
at licensed premises in hotels and sports facilities such as golf clubs and exhibition venues. Outdoor events catered for by hotels or clubs are also allowed to serve alcohol.
Religion: Islam is the official religion while other faiths are also respected.
Dirham (AED), which is divided into 100 Fils. The exchange rate is approximately US$1 = AED 3.67 (correct at time of press).
Climate: Sunny, blue skies can be expected throughout the year, although June to September is hot and humid with temperatures averaging above 40没C. The weather is pleasant from October to May with temperatures averaging 28没C, although evenings in January and February can occasionally require the use of a sweater or jacket. The oasis city of Al Ain enjoys cooler temperatures even through summer due to sporadic rainfall. Location: The UAE comprises seven emirates, namely Abu Dhabi (the capital), Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ras al Khaimah. Qatar lies to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west, south and southeast and Oman to the southeast and northeast.
Clothing: Lightweight summer clothing
Local time: GMT +3/4 hours.
Business hours: The official weekend is Friday, but government offices are closed Friday and Saturday. Most shops/ malls open by 10am and close around 10pm, although they close later during Ramadan and on weekends. Banks, embassies and consulates are open from 8.30am to 12.30pm, Sunday to Thursday.
Visas: Visa requirements vary greatly according to the nationality of the visitor and regulations should always be checked prior to travel, since they are liable to change without notice. Check with your local embassy.
in cottons or blends is ideal for the majority of the year. Sweaters, a light jacket or pashminas may be needed for the cooler evenings. Dress should be conservative as extremely revealing clothing may be considered offensive.
Ramadan
During the Holy Month of Ramadan, Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking and smoking in daylight hours (approximately 7am to 6.30pm). As a sign of respect, visitors are also required to refrain from these activities in public during fasting hours. In 2012, the Holy Month of Ramadan is expected to begin around July 20th. At the end of 30 days, or on sighting of the new moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated and most public and private institutions close for at least three days.
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PEARL BALLROOM THE IDEAL VENUE FOR YOUR EVENT The Pearl Ballroom at Danat Al Ain Resort has been totally renovated. This strikingly spacious ballroom can accommodate more than 600 of your special guests who will be overwhelmed by the luxury and the customized spectacular setting that will be tailor made to suit your events from weddings, conferences, exhibitions, seminars and more. Our executive chef is committed to bring the tastes of the world to your table. Our daily delegate rate for meeting starts from AED 160* per person including buffet lunch, 2 coffee breaks as well as meeting equipments. Call +971 3 704 6144 for more information or email banquetsales.alain@danathotels.com. *Rate is subject to 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee. Rate is valid until 31st December 2012.
Managed by Danat Hotels & Resorts, a Division of National Corporation for Tourism & Hotels PO Box 16031, Al Ain, UAE | T. +971 3 704 6000 | F. +971 3 704 6009 | E. info.alain@danathotels.com | www.danathotels.com
GETTING THERE Abu Dhabi International Airport welcomed nearly 12.4 million passengers in 2011, up 13.9 percent compared with the previous year
ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ¥ Terminal 3, which is dedicated to Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, opened in the first quarter of 2009 and has increased the airport's overall annual passenger capacity to over 12 million passengers
• BOSTON • NEW YORK • WASHINGTON DC
¥ Abu Dhabi International Airport is the base of Etihad Airways, which operates a fleet of 63 aircraft and serves 84 passenger and cargo destinations in 52 countries ¥ A new extended terminal facility, dubbed the Midfield Terminal Complex, will have the initial capacity to handle 27-30 million passengers per annum and is expected to be completed in 2017 ¥ The airport boasts several luxurious lounges, including a premier lounge known as Al Dar where passengers can relax and travel in total comfort and complete privacy ¥ While in transit, passengers can visit the airport hotel, which includes a hotel bar, gymnasium, business centre, a spa, children's play area and 40 rooms ¥ Free Wi-Fi internet access is available to passengers within the airport ¥ A special meet-and-assist service known as Golden Class offers passengers a three-minute check-in and hassle-free fast-track immigration at Abu Dhabi International Airport. The service is available both on arrival and departure and can be pre-booked in advance of arrival into the emirate ¥ In 2011 leading airline companies such as Cathay Pacific, Virgin Australia and Czech Airlines joined the network, increasing the airport's reach to new destinations and expanding further its connectivity
• MIAMI
¥ The airport added eight new destinations in 2011: Hong Kong, Prague, Seychelles, Male, Dusseldorf, Bangalore, Chengdu and Aleppo ¥ The top 10 routes from Abu Dhabi International Airport during 2011 were: London Heathrow; Doha; Bangkok; Manila, Jeddah; Sydney; Cairo; Frankfurt; Bahrain; and Paris' Charles de Gaulle. These destinations collectively generated 32.9 percent of the airport's total passenger traffic AL AIN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
• RIO DE JANEIRO
• BUENOS AIRES
¥ Al Ain International Airport, Abu Dhabi's second air gateway, was launched in early 1994 ¥ The airport has recently undergone developments that include the expansion of the main terminal building to handle more flights, the opening of a new cargo terminal and the installation of a catering building ¥ The airport currently handles seven airlines: Royal Jordanian, Air India Express, Pakistan International Airlines, Ariana Airlines, Shaheen Air International, Oman Air and Gulf Air ¥ The airport is also the venue for the annual international aerobatics air show
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introduction: getting there abu dhabi 2012
• STOCKHOLM
• MOSCOW
• DUBLIN LONDON •
• AMSTERDAM • PRAGUE • FRANKFURT • PARIS • VIENNA • ZURICH ROME •
• ISTANBUL
BEIJING •
• ATHENS • RABAT • CASABLANCA CAIRO •
• SEOUL
• TOKYO • OSAKA
• BEIRUT • DAMASCUS • AMMAN • KUWAIT
• ISLAMABAD
• SHANGHAI
• DELHI
ABU DHABI • DUBAI
• DHAKA
MUSCAT • • MUMBAI
• JEDDAH
• LAGOS
ADDIS ABABA •
• NAIROBI
o ur s
• BANGALORE ACCRA •
• TAIPEI • HONG KONG
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• MANILA
• BANGKOK
• HO CHI MINH CITY
• COLOMBO
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• KUALA LUMPUR • SINGAPORE • JAKARTA
DAR ES SALAAM • • DARWIN • MAURITIUS
• BRISBANE • PERTH ADELAIDE •
• SYDNEY AUCKLAND • • MELBOURNE WELLINGTON • CHRISTCHURCH •
MAP DENOTES APPROXIMATE FLYING TIMES FROM ABU DHABI
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abu dhabi CORNICHE
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introduction: abu dhabi abu dhabi 2012
SEEING IS BELIEVING The Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority is the power behind development plans for the UAE capital and is leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to cement its reputation as a leading business and tourism destination The largest of the UAE's seven emirates is the capital Abu Dhabi, which covers more than 87 percent of the total landmass. The city centre sits along the coastline and on the largest of almost 200 natural islands that stretch out into the Arabian Gulf. A city with business as its backbone, it is home to the federal government as well as the majority of ministries and associated institutions, embassies, state broadcasting facilities, oil and gas companies. The emirate's other hub, the garden city of Al Ain, located in the Eastern Region, is its second-largest city and, along with the western Al Gharbia region, is undergoing transformation as part of the government's Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 vision. This emirate-wide plan focuses on urban development to manage anticipated population expansion and guide the emirate's economic diversification drive. With an estimated 9.2 percent of global hydrocarbon reserves, Abu Dhabi is one of the world's richest states and its strong liquidity position is driving fundamental physical change and prompting further economic diversity. Tourism has been identified as a high-potential economic driver and the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority is leading its promotion. The authority is almost at the end of a five-year strategic plan (2008 to 2012). The plan aimed to deliver 2.3 million hotel guests by the end of 2012, but has since revised this to 2.7 million owing to the emirate's strong performance in 2011, which witnessed 2.1 million hotel guests. As part of that strategy, the authority established Advantage Abu Dhabi, an incentive programme launched in 2009 to seed new business tourism and meeting concepts, which form a key part of Abu Dhabi's tourism development. Abu Dhabi's steps to develop its infrastructure in order to attract business travellers, includes the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Firmly at the centre of this push, ADNEC has been accompanied by a raft of new hotels,
meeting spaces, leisure spots, sports venues and considerable road and airport upgrades. In overall market terms, Middle Eastern visitors represent a significant proportion of Abu Dhabi's hotel guests, but both the UK and Germany are considered to produce the most meetings in the region. Future efforts at developing tourism will be divided into two distinct geographical strategies: the Middle East, which represents 30 percent of hotel guests; and those countries accessible via the route network of Etihad Airways (the national airline of the UAE), namely China, India and Russia. With its wealth of natural islands, cosmopolitan lifestyle and traditional roots, Abu Dhabi's long-term goal is to become a recognised international tourism destination.
This growth potential is continuing to maintain healthy levels, with Abu Dhabi's GDP expected to rise four percent to US$204 billion in 2012, according to forecasts from the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce at the end of 2011. The tourism industry will be pivotal in maintaining these figures, as it has proved resilient in the UAE amid a global drop in leisure tourism. Abu Dhabi recorded its most successful year in 2011 in terms of hotel-guest arrivals with over 2.1 million leisure and business tourists staying in hotels throughout the emirate last year Ă? beating the 2011 target of two million by 6.5 percent or over 100,000 guests. This is in line with the tourism authority's five-year plan, which culminates at the end of this year.
Advantage Abu Dhabi is an incentive programme launched in 2009 to seed new business tourism and meeting concepts, as meeting and incentive visitors form a key part of Abu Dhabi’s tourism development
adnec waterfront quayside can accommodate vessels ranging from military ships to super-yachts
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the luxurious Yas Viceroy hotel is a popular venue for high-profile conferences
the sheikh zayed grand mosque is an architectural treasure
Abu Dhabi facts Capital city of the UAE and largest of the country's seven emirates Government and political heart of the UAE Oil reserves estimated to last some 150 years Owns eight percent of the planet's oil reserves and a fifth of the world's natural gas Has 200 natural islands and 700 kilometres of coastline 1.8 million population expected to grow 6.8 percent per annum in the next 10 years
Venue firsts
Meeting growth Abu Dhabi's positioning as a major international events destination is also attracting a diverse range of regional and international shows with several big exhibitions slated for 2012. The portfolio of high-profile trade exhibitions already includes: the World Ophthalmology Congress; IDEX, the world's largest defence show; the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference, the third largest in the world; the World Future Energy Summit; and the Gulf Incentive and Business Travel and Meetings (GIBTM) exhibition. The 33rd World Ophthalmology Congress, held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) is the first of its scale to be seen in Abu Dhabi. With 12,000 visitors, the exhibition has been hailed as a landmark event on the city's jour足ney to becoming a leading destination for conferences and exhibitions. Another major event is the World Health Care Congress Middle East, which is being
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organised by USA's World Congress, a leading global provider of healthcare congresses. The third edition to be hosted in Abu Dhabi takes place in December, affirming the emirate's congress capabilities. Abu Dhabi will also host its fourth Media Summit early in the fourth quarter of 2012, which will see hundreds of top industry players and luminaries gather together to discuss emerging media issues in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. With environmental initiatives underpinning Abu Dhabi's development plans, the emirate will once again stage the World Green Tourism Congress at ADNEC. Other large-scale events taking place in the emirate during 2012 include the annual UFI Congress in November, which is recognised as the ultimate networking opportunity for the world's exhibition organisers, venue managers and partners of the industry. (Turn to page 127 for further details).
The majority of events are held in the state-of-the-art ADNEC, one of the most modern centres in the world with 12 exhibition halls spanning 55,000 square metres of exhibition space and including a 5,700seat auditorium and outdoor marina area. As well as the impressive ADNEC site, smaller high-profile conferences are taking place on Yas Island with the luxurious Yas Viceroy hotel the staging point. There is also the Emirates Palace Conference Centre, with an auditorium seating 1,200, a main ballroom for up to 2,800 participants and 48 meeting rooms. A host of unique culturally appropriate venues exist across the emirate for organisers looking for an out-of-the-box experience. Al Ain's historic Al Jahili Fort, built by Sheikh Zayed the First (Sheikh Zayed Bin Khalifa) in the 1890s, is one of the largest forts in the country. Recently restored by the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, it is available for concerts, gala dinners and meetings. Much of the emirate is still dominated by towering sand dunes and large open stretches of desert bordering the infamous Empty Quarter (Rub Al Khail). This setting provides the perfect backdrop for incentive activities such as desert safaris and Bedouin camps.
introduction: abu dhabi abu dhabi 2012
YAS MARINA CIRCUIT HOSTS THE ANNUAL FORMULA ONE ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX
ABU DHABI HOSTED A FORTNIGHT-LONG STOPOVER OF THE VOLVO OCEAN RACE 2011-2012
Major sporting events in the capital include the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the Volvo Ocean Race and the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship
FERRARI WORLD OFFERS FAST-PACED THRILLS AS WELL AS A SHOWCASE FOR THE CARS THEMSELVES
Advantage Abu Dhabi About to start the final year of its three-year initiative, the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority's Advantage Abu Dhabi (AAD) is aimed at seeding innovative and viable business events aligned to the government's Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, part of its economic vision. The AAD is designed to support the meetings industry to realise direct tourism benefits and to ensure it serves as a growth pillar for Abu Dhabi's long-term development goals. The AAD arranges financial and non-financial resources to enable meeting planners and exhibition and conference organisers to actualise new business events in Abu Dhabi across 12 strategic sectors.
The UAE Pavilion was relocated to Saadiyat Island after hosting the UAE's National Exhibition at the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai. Designed in the shape of a golden sand dune and situated next to the Manarat al Saadiyat exhibition space and art gallery, the pavilion is a landmark exhibition and events venue. The latest addition to the desert-scape and a 90-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport, is the five-star Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, a luxury retreat hidden behind the dunes and offering another great meeting or incentive option with traditional desert pursuits, such as falconry and camel riding on the menu.
CULTURAL HUB With more than 200 natural islands, year-round sunshine and fabulous beaches, Abu Dhabi has a lot going for it as an incentive destination. Major sporting events, including the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, the Volvo Ocean Race and the annual Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, top and tail the emirate's impressive events calendar, creating a reason for corporate groups to hinge annual meetings and staff incentives in the capital. Cultural attractions planned, such as the Louvre and Guggenheim museums now in the pipeline, are set for completion in 2015 and 2017 respectively.
Other more traditional attractions that typify Abu Dhabi's past, as well as its present, include the working Heritage Village out on the breakwater, the dhow wharves at Mina Zayed port, the colourful local souks and the visually stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on the outskirts of the city. The Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC) is the force behind many of Abu Dhabi's ambitious projects. These include Saadiyat Island, a 27-square-kilometre island sanctuary under development off the northeast coast of Abu Dhabi city. TDIC is also the main force behind the US$3 billion Desert Islands development, consisting of eight islands and an onshore gate, offering a unique eco-tourism destination. Over at Yas Island, the Ferrari World theme park has proved a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike since opening in November 2010. Yas Island is also home to the Yas Arena, which stages Yas Island Show Weekends headlining major acts from around the world, such as Janet Jackson, Madonna and Metallica, organised by Flash Entertainment. With a daily growing group of international hotel brands, one of the largest events facilities in the Middle East, a truly diverse array of cultural attractions and an exciting calendar of sporting events, Abu Dhabi is a complete corporate meeting and incentive destination.
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GRAND BRANDS With a strategy to establish its cultural credentials, Abu Dhabi is attracting some of the biggest names in sport, entertainment, culture and education, to put the emirate firmly on the world stage
When you are talking about an incentive or meeting that incorporates international iconic brands Ferrari and the Louvre in the same breath as the Guggenheim, Manchester City and the Sorbonne, youÕd assume a lot of air miles and a big bill at the end of it � unless you happen to be in Abu Dhabi that is.
The louvre abu dhabi will have a vast 'floating' dome and is being designed by french architect jean nouvel
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The emirate has made it a mission to embark on a multi-billion-dollar spending spree, buying up international brand names from the world stage in every sector imaginable. From culture and sport to entertainment Ă? each investment has been made with a view to enhancing Abu Dhabi's international reputation.
Whether it is Middle Eastern versions of world-famous cultural museums, or hosting international sporting events like the Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the Volvo Ocean Race, tying up with the right brands is all part of a carefully thought-out strategy to ensure that Abu Dhabi places itself firmly in the spotlight.
introduction: international brands abu dhabi 2012
Cultural capital Abu Dhabi is intent on establishing its cultural credentials. To this end, the emirate has teamed up with two of the worldÕs most famous museums, the Louvre and the Guggenheim, to open up museums in the city, in exchange for supporting their western outposts with billions of dollars in investment. No expense has been spared to bring these cultural icons to the capital. Abu Dhabi has reportedly paid more than US$1 billion to bring the Louvre and hundreds of art works, exhibitions and advisers to the emirate. Now the mere association of such a prestigious cultural institution heading to the Gulf has been enough to whip the art world into a frenzy of excitement. Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the Louvre Abu Dhabi will be the first installment of the Parisian art gallery to be built outside France. HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE president and ruler of Abu Dhabi, heralded the deal as a Òmajor achievement in Abu DhabiÕs vision to become a worldclass destination bridging global culturesÓ. The museum is scheduled to open in 2015. Meanwhile, just next door to the Louvre, the largest Guggenheim museum in the world is in the pipeline. Designed by award-winning architect Frank Gehry, the museum pushes architectural boundaries to the limit with an ultra-dramatic design. While the museum is owned by Abu DhabiÕs Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC), it will be run by the Guggenheim Foundation, so fans of modern art have been assured they can expect the same cutting-edge style found at Guggenheims around the world when the gallery opens in 2017 Ð with some concessions to local sensibilities (all the subjects in paintings are expected to be clothed).
Manchester City When Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan splashed out US$322.2 million to buy Manchester City Football Club in September 2008, the decision rippled through the massive international community of Premier League fans and Abu Dhabi was thrust instantly into the global spotlight. Manchester City fans were unsurprisingly over the moon at the takeover by the billionaire Gulf investor, even donning traditional Arab kanduras to show appreciation for their clubÕs new proprietor, who promised to turn City, a middle-ranking Premier League team, into one of the biggest clubs in the world. As if that wasnÕt enough excitement, within hours of the deal being agreed, Manchester City broke the British transfer record to snatch Real Madrid player Robinho from under the noses of Chelsea (who had been courting him all summer) for a cool US$52.4 million. The club has since splashed out millions of dollars on a collection of stars, including Carlos Tevez, Yaya Toure and Edin Dzeko. Soccer schools featuring former Manchester City players and coaches have been held in Abu Dhabi since the club, which is sponsored by UAE national carrier Etihad Airways, was taken over. Now, thought to be the wealthiest club in the world, City may not have won the Champions League just yet, but with so much cash to flash, all eyes in the football world are now on its Abu Dhabi owners to see whether they really can make good on that promise.
MANCHESTER CITY PLAYER carlos tevez
Photo: sportgraphic / Shutterstock.com
an artist's impression of the new guggenheim abu dhabi, designed by internationally renowned architect frank gehry
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Sebastian Vettel at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Manchester United The red half of Manchester is also closely linked to Abu Dhabi, with United hosting soccer schools in the UAE capital since October 2010. While unable to compete financially with its Abu Dhabi-owned rival, Manchester United is still the more successful club on the field. Guided by manager Sir Alex Ferguson, Man United remains a major football force that consistently battles for Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League honours each season. Retaining its position as one of the worldÕs most successful clubs requires fresh talent to replace ageing or transferred stars. With clubs scouring the globe for upcoming players, UnitedÕs soccer schools in Abu Dhabi could perhaps, in years to come, unearth the next Wayne Rooney or Rio Ferdinand. Youngsters aged six to 18 can play the game and receive coaching at the Manchester United Soccer Schools, which organise football courses and soccer camps. Lucky participants even have chance to knock a ball around with former Man United players such as Andy Cole who visited in March 2012. The schools may be aimed at youngsters, but Manchester UnitedÕs arrival in Abu Dhabi is testament to the UAE capitalÕs ability to attract some of the worldÕs biggest sporting names.
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Grand Prix action
World-class learning
Without a doubt, the most highly anticipated event on the Abu Dhabi calendar is the 2012 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which takes place from November 2 to 4 on the Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island. Quoted during the first Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2009, president of Formula One Bernie Ecclestone described the Yas Marina Circuit as Òone of the most exciting tracks I have ever seenÓ. Televised in 188 countries, the Grand Prix is watched by an estimated audience of 527 million. However, visitors to Abu Dhabi can view the action live from luxurious hospitality suites around the track or from a yacht in the Yas Marina. Motoring enthusiasts can also take part in a drag race on a strip sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association, or try go-karting.
Culture and sport are not the only areas where Abu Dhabi has spotted excellent branding opportunities; education is another. Remarkable as it may seem, students can now obtain a world-class degree from the Paris Sorbonne without even going to France. The ancient Parisian institution has been offering law, economics and human sciences degrees at its Abu Dhabi campus since 2006 (in French of course). In total, the Sorbonne has about 400 students in Abu Dhabi, some of whom are taking French-language courses before starting undergraduate degrees. It is the first time the 750-year-old prestigious centre of learning in the Paris Latin Quarter has been exported overseas and Abu Dhabi is funding the entire project, estimated at around US$42 million. The New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) is the regionÕs first comprehensive research university and in its 2011-2012 Bulletin is quoted as aiming to be Òa force for social and education progress and intellectual understandingÓ. A campus in both New York and Abu Dhabi links the cities as world-class university sites and together they endeavour to create Òa truly diverse and globally engaged student bodyÓ. The NYUAD looks for the very top students from all backgrounds across the globe and admission is highly selective. Clearly, Abu Dhabi has been successful in building its reputation as a first-class city by courting partnerships with the worldÕs best brands to embolden ÔBrand Abu DhabiÕ. With strong alliances and exciting international attention, the capital is poised to become a meeting and incentive plannerÕs dream destination.
Ocean drive The Volvo Ocean Race is undeniably the worldÕs premier global ocean race, one of the worldÕs most demanding team events Ð a full-on mix of world-class sporting competition and white-knuckle adventure. Known as the Whitbread Round the World Race when the first 39,000-nautical-mile challenge took place over 37 years ago, the race tests crews against some of the world's most brutal oceanic elements. Spread over nine months, the race starts in Spain and ends in Ireland. The 2013 race, which completes next year, will be its twelfth and it is just the second time the Middle East (and particularly Abu Dhabi) will have been part of the route.
abu dhabi is the first middle eastern host port of the volvo ocean race
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CRUISE GROUNDHANDLING DESTINATION REPRESENTATION TOURISM CONSULTANCY
Abu Dhabi Office / United Arab Emirates Al Bawardi Bldg II, Suite 1502 Tel: 00971 2 6799914 Fax: 00971 2 6799913 Dubai Office / United Arab Emirates Al Serkal Bldg II, Suite 602 Tel: 00971 4 2942290 Fax: 00971 4 2942291 info@thevisionme.com www.thevisionme.com
MODERN METROPOLIS The blend of old and new has developed both Abu Dhabi's skyline and its city coastline into a modern statement of Arabia ABU DHABI'S SPECTACULAR SKYLINE
THE CORNICHE BOASTSK A WAKEBOARDING PAR
COASTAL CORNICHE A city attraction in its own right and indeed Abu Dhabi's most spectacular sight is that of the Corniche, a span of stunning hotels, white mosques, glass buildings and beautiful gardens, that runs for six kilometres along the coastline. Having undergone a massive renovation programme in recent years, the Corniche is one of the most picturesque sites in the capital, lined by parks, benches and fountains. It is an easily accessible leisure spot located in the centre of the city offering safe and pleasant walking, cycling, jogging and rollerblading along the seashore to all visitors. The Corniche is also home to some of the best beaches in Abu Dhabi.
The edge of the breakwaters, consisting of reclaimed land at the western end of the Corniche, affords a panoramic view of the city's imposing skyline and offers restaurants, shops and a mini funfair. The Clock Tower near the Corniche remains one of its most visually striking landmarks, with plans underway for a new, 70-metre-high structure to replace the existing tower, eventually to house an information centre, cafeteria, stores, gardens and other recreational outlets.
ABU DHABI CORNICHE
Early morning or late afternoon Unlimited All day Get your team to rollerblade or organise mini races
The beach A lengthy stretch of beach extends along Corniche Road from near the Hilton Abu Dhabi to beyond Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, where the main entrance is situated. The beach has swimming areas, refreshment outlets, scenic gardens, pathways for walking, beach volleyball pitches and children's play areas. At least 70 umbrellas line the stretch of beach to provide shade to beach-goers.
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attractions: city life abu dhabi 2012
MARINA MALL IS A STALWART OF THE EMIRATE'S SHOPPING BASKET
SHOP STOPS Shopping in Abu Dhabi can be an air-conditioned preamble around a modern mall or a hot, dusty and unforgettable adventure around an authentic Arabian souk. Both make for great group excursions, especially as part of a partner's programme. Abu Dhabi Mall and Marina Mall are the two stalwarts of the emirate's shopping basket, offering a host of international brands at taxfree prices, but more recent entrants into the retail game include the Al Wahd a Mall and Khalidiya Mall, both of which offer new brands and old favourites as well as unlimited dining and entertainment opportunities. The Avenue at Etihad Towers boasts 40 luxury boutiques. For a more authentic shopping experience, head for one of the two main souks Ð the Iranian Souk and Afghan Souk (or Mina Souk) Ð which are both situated out on the fringes of the port area. The Iranian Souk, near port Zayed, is an open-air market selling soft furnishings, carpets and pottery from Iran. It is well worth a visit for a walk around the area's pools and fountains. Nearby, the Afghan Souk is a great place to seek out Oriental carpets and rugs. Abu Dhabi's Central Market reflects the style of a traditional Islamic bazaar. The market features purveyors of gold and precious stones, carpets, rugs, textiles, Arabian coffee pots, shisha pipes, khanjars (curved daggers) and inlaid jewellery boxes, among other things. Half-day tour 10 to 30 Avoid the midday heat. Late afternoon and evenings are better times to shop Decide on a designated meeting spot, as souks can turn into mazes
POTTERY IN THE IRANIAN SOUK
TWO IN ONE
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Ideal for Group size Timings Top tip
CARPETS AND RUGS ARE A POPULAR MOMENTO
Madinat Zayed Mall encompasses two buildings: the Gold Centre and the Shopping Centre. The Gold Centre has more than 65 leading gold and jewellery shops under one roof as well as Homes R Us and The Daiso Ð Japan's premier value store. The Shopping Centre houses more than 220 popular retail stores and is worth a visit for its range of exquisite abayas and sheilas, handicraft, antiques, gifts, perfumes and cosmetics, electronics, furniture, textiles and fashion. Half-day tour 10 to 30 In the morning or after 4pm. Closed on Friday mornings. When buying gold, take note of the daily rate per ounce, as dealers use this to calculate prices
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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
CULTURE CLASSIC Tap into tradition by exploring the overwhelming riches of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or simple village life SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE The majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is probably the most imposing religious and national landmark in Abu Dhabi. Its initial architectural design is Moroccan, but with many global influences. Natural materials were chosen for construction Ă? marble, stone, gold, semi-precious stones, crystals and ceramics. The mosque features 80 domes all decorated with white marble. The main dome's outer shell measures 32.7
metres in diameter and stands 85 metres high from the out-side Ă? the largest of its kind. A total of 1,096 exterior columns and 96 columns in the main prayer hall are embedded with more than 20,000 handmade marble panels encrusted with lapis lazuli, amethyst and mother of pearl.Four beautiful minarets standing 107 metres adorn each corner of the mosque. Hanging within the mosque are seven 24-carat gold-plated chandeliers made in Germany and covered in thousands of Swarovski crystals.
I slamic and UAE history Five to 30 Opening hours for self-tours are 9am to10pm daily, except Fridays when the Mosque opens in the afternoon only. Guided tours usually take place Sunday to Thursday at 10am, 11am and 5pm; Friday at 5pm and 8pm; and Saturday at 10am, 11am, 2pm, 5pm and 8pm*
key
Ideal for Group size Timings Top tip
the view from heritage village
*Tours are adjusted to prayer times so double check prior to visiting.
G roups larger than 10 should pre-book
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attractions: historical abu dhabi 2012
AL MAQTA FORT IS 200 YEARS OLD
GLASSBLOWING FORMS PART OF THE EMIRATE'S PRE-OIL HERITAGE
CULTURAL CLASS The Cultural Foundation is an artsÕ hub hosting rotating photography, art and various cultural exhibitions throughout the year, as well as concerts and screenings of international films in the in-house cinema. The centre also houses the National Library and the Institute of Culture & Art. A visit provides a unique insight into Abu Dhabi's cultural heritage and visitors will see a model of old Abu Dhabi city, traditional musical instruments, gifts from visiting dignitaries, Islamic
art and a vast collection of black and white photographs documenting the last five decades of development. The Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority has also established an outlet for traditional Emirati handicrafts within the centre. A cultural overview Five to 40 Sunday to Thursday: 8am to 3pm and 5pm to 9.30pm, Friday from 5pm to 8pm and Saturday from 9am to 12pm and then 5pm to 8pm
WATCH A POTTERY DEMONSTRATION AT HERITAGE VILLAGE
HOLD THE FORT
VILLAGE LIFE
Abu Dhabi comprises many archaeological sites that shed important light on its rich, deep-rooted history. Forts, citadels and palaces collectively draw a vivid picture of the region's culture and heritage. Visitors approaching the capital across Al Maqta Bridge can take in Al Maqta Fort, built over 200 years ago, now fully restored and serving as a tourist information centre. The fort used to act as a military checkpoint, strategically positioned in the middle of the water to protect the city. It is thought to have been the traditional residence for the Al Nahyan tribe leaders, rulers of Abu Dhabi at the time.
The Heritage Village, overlooking the Corniche near the breakwaters, is run by the Emirates Heritage Club and offers a journey into the past, with Bedouin tents, palm houses and old fishing village, traditional souk and maritime traditions on display. Traditional aspects of the desert way of life, including a campfire with coffee pots, a goatsÕ hair tent and a falaj irrigation system, are on display. Workshops where craftsmen demonstrate traditional skills, such as metalwork and pottery, while women sit weaving and spinning, are also part of the mix. The craftsmen are happy to share their skills and occasionally give visitors the chance to try them out. A shop on the premises displays various local crafts, a large number of photographs and a unique collection of the Holy Qur'an.
A cultural overview Five to 30 Avoid the midday heat
Times past The Cultural Foundation's traditional Emirati handicrafts displayed within the arts hub are made by Emirati women who demonstrate basket weaving and embroidery to watching visitors
Early evening event 30 to 50 Avoid the midday heat Follow up with Arabic mezze at a local restaurant to cap off an authentic evening out
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FAIR ISLES
MANARAT AL SAADIYAT IS A PURP OSE-BUILT 15,400-SQUARE-METRE VISITOR CENT TO BRING THE VISION OF SAADIYAT RE DESIGNED ISLAND ALIVE
With a coastline incorporating over 200 separate islands, the landscape is set for offshore fun and exploration
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SAADIYAT ISLAND'S NATURAL TURTLE HABITAT IS PROTECTED
SAADIYAT ISLAND Saadiyat Island to the north of the Abu Dhabi Corniche is being transformed into a luxury leisure and cultural destination. This massive, multi-billion-dollar development project includes new hotels and spas, world-class entertainment centres, museums, resorts, upscale residences and business centres currently being built on the natural island. Located just 500 metres off the coast of the capital, this island will offer 30 kilometres of waterfront, two championship golf courses, seven unique
Ideal for Group size Timings Top tip
districts and a marina with berthing home. It will also play host to the Louvre Abu Dhabi opening in 2015, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi to be completed in 2017, Sheikh Zayed National Museum coming online in 2016, a Performing Arts Centre designed by Zaha Hadid and a Maritime Museum. The island is already home to contemporary art galleries open to the general public, as well as the Gary Player-designed Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, the Arabian Gulf's only seafront course. The Manarat Al Saadiyat,
In the pipeline The Shangri-La, owned by the Al Jaber Group and the Mandarin Oriental are two topquality hotels in the pipeline. Both are designed to create a destination in harmony with nature, while providing premium hospitality and boasting beachfront caf s and restaurants as well as wellness centres and spas. Guests will access the resort beaches by a series of boardwalks and pathways through the dunes.
which means Òthe place of enlightenmentÓ, is a 15,400square-metre arts and culture centre designed to house interactive exhibitions with international collections from around the world, including three major galleries, a central events gallery, sales centre, a 250-seat theatre and restaurant. Saadiyat Beach will be host to nine five-star, highly landscaped resorts, when they are all completed. Resort developers have to follow strict development guidelines to accommodate a series of natural dunes and fauna lying directly behind the beachfront. Design concepts for the beach developments have to take the natural environment into consideration, as well as offering hotel guests the prerequisite recreational amenities and entertainment. Completed earlier this year is StarwoodÕs St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort which has 377 luxury quest rooms and 33 St. Regis branded villas. Situated adjacent to the Saadiyat Beach Golf Course, the resort houses an additional 259 branded residences and a high-end retail and entertainment complex called The Collection. The complex is due to be completed during 2012. The hotel itself includes a ballroom of 3,000 square metres with an outdoor terrace, meeting rooms and a business centre. Half-day trip from the city 10 to 50 Open daily
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MARINA CIRCUIT AN AERIAL VIEW OF YAS ABU DHABI AND FERRARI WORLD
attractions: islands abu dhabi 2012
KAYAKING ON SIR BANI YAS
YAS ISLAND Yas Island is being positioned as the heart of the emirate's sporting and leisure activities. Situated close to Abu Dhabi city and totalling 25 square kilometres, the island boasts world-class hotels, a sprawling marina, a theme park and a golf course, making it one of the best business tourist hubs in the region. With the Yas Arena and Yas Forum for megaconcerts, the island is making its mark as the optimum choice in leisure destinations. The rich maritime history of Abu Dhabi is also showcased with a modern twist at the Yas Marina which houses an exclusive yacht club. The Yas Marina Circuit is home to the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, an actionpacked three-day sports spect acular. With a license to host the Grand Prix until 2016, this fixture will be an incentive draw for many in the future. During the Grand Prix events, the Paddock Club offers a corporate entertainment experience, with views over the pitlane and fine cuisine. Additional to the roaring success of the Grand Prix, the Yas Marina Circuit is open year-round with a karting track, drag-racing facility and driving academy on offer. The venue also hosts the FIA GT 1 World Championship, Yas V8 400 and the GP2 Asia Series. Yas Island is home to the world's largest indoor theme park, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. A shopping mall and water park, which will feature more than 40 rides are both up for completion
this year. The Emirati-themed Yas Water World Abu Dhabi will include a wave pool, lazy river ride, cable water skiing and scuba diving, among other activities. There are also plans for several more golf courses to be built across the island, plus polo fields and an equestrian centre to complement the existing seven hotels, which collectively have some 2,000 rooms. Full day or more Five to 50 All day
SIR BANI YAS ISLAND Formerly the private wildlife reserve for the ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas has become a popular attraction for visitors looking for an eco-experience. Located some 250 kilometres west of Abu Dhabi, to reach this historic and exotic island, visitors can either take a short plane ride, or travel up by road and hop on a speedboat for the quick 10-minute transfer from nearby Jebel Dhanna. While best known for its wildlife and nature reserve,
the island recently opened an equestrian centre while a watersports and dive centre near the Desert Island Resort & Spa by Anantara are under construction. The Desert Island hotel boasts luxury accommodation, a conference centre for up to 350 people, eight breakout rooms and a boardroom, reception, large courtyard and a business centre. Full day or overnight excursion Five to 50 All day
A NATIVE ARABIAN LEOPARD
Island lodges Two new Arabian-style lodges will open this year on Sir Bani Yas. Al Sahel Lodge is designed so that guests can view indigenous wildlife from their rooms. Al Yamm Lodge, located on a mangrove lagoon beach, has been designed to help guests relax with the sound of water. Each lodge comprises 30 sizeable individual villas, a pool, restaurants and retail units.
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NATURE TALE When animal magic is on the agenda, there's some great tours for group outings and plenty of choice between wild birds of prey, camel racing and Arabian horses
FALCON QUEST The falcon is an inextricable part of cultural history and tradition in the Gulf region and for those who want a unique insight into the world of falconry, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is the place to go. This bird of prey has been revered throughout the Gulf for centuries and the hospital gives teams a chance to tour the grounds and learn about the long history of falconry. It is a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent birds of prey. Tours around the grounds are given by staff who are able to impart interesting information and regale stories about the history of falconry. Group visits can easily be arranged that include a falcon show and guided tour of the museum, together with a tour of the hospital wards where the falcons are kept as VIPs during their stay. There is also the opportunity to see the aviary where these magnificent birds can fly freely. The culmination of the tour is a display of falconry skills, where a Bedouin falconer entertains the crowds with a flight show. The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital also allows visitors the opportunity of having pictures taken with a falcon sitting on their arms. On the meetings side, a conference centre has been built to accommodate up to 160 people.
learn about the history of falconry at the abu dhabi falcon hospital
Half-day tour 4 0 max Tours from Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 2pm Book in advance
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attractions: wildlife abu dhabi 2012
CAMEL CALVALCADE Ride them or watch them race, camels are a big attraction in the inland garden city of Al Ain, which also boasts a camel market, best experienced on a Friday when dealers come from across the Gulf to buy and sell racing camels. Al Ain also has a long-standing tradition of camel racing with the main race track now located in Al Malagit. As much a people-watching experience as anything, the big races attract hundreds of spectators (entry is free) and owners tempted by sizeable prize purses. A second camel race track is located in the Al Maqam area to the east. This oasis town also boasts the region's only camel milk farm, the Al Ain Dairy, producing a variety of camel milk products and ice cream. Camel farms abound in Al Ain, allowing visitors to get up close. Most destination management companies (DMCs) will include a camel ride in trips to the desert. Part of a full-day trip 10 to 30 Fridays are best for racing and the market Check that the camels are used to people before approaching
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Ideal for Group size Timings Top tip
HORSERACING IS A PARTICULAR PASSION OF THE UAE'S RULERS
THOROUGHBRED CLUB Abu Dhabi locals have a long and passionate relationship with the stunning Arabian horse. The distinguished lineage of thoroughbred Arabians began when they were chosen to be trained by their Bedouin masters as war horses due to their intelligence and outstanding stamina, while at the same time possessing an undisputed reputation for beauty and gentle demeanour towards people. A visit to the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club (ADEC) in the Mushrif area of the city, located around 20 minutes from the city centre, gives visitors a glimpse of the outstanding role played by horses in the local heritage and sporting culture. ADEC is a sprawling haven for horses, where they live in air-conditioned luxury. The club is suitable for equestrians of all ages and skill levels. World-class facilities, including well-appointed, spacious barns and a 70-metre equine swimming pool, are located at the club. Horse races are held in Abu Dhabi (usually Sundays) during the cooler winter season, with the HH President's Cup, the National Day Cup and the Championship Cup among the most popular races each year. Show jumping competitions also form part of ADEC's annual calendar. Half-day trip 10 to 50 Check in advance for local race timings Groups larger than 10 should pre-book
ARABIAN HORSES ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR DISTINCTIVE BEAUTY
CAMEL RACING IS A POPULAR SPECTATOR SPORT
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EASTERN PROMISE Take a trip out east and visitors will find Al Ain, a garden city boasting a wealth of cultural hotspots and beautiful landscapes HISTORY TOUR Al Ain boasts a huge number of old forts - some restored and some still picture-perfect in their ruinous state. One of the oldest forts in the country lies in the grounds of the Al Ain National Museum and houses several permanent exhibitions, from a fascinating photographic display of black and white prints of Al Ain taken in the 1960s, to the reconstruction of a traditional majlis. The National Museum was established in 1969 and includes exhibitions from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Hellenistic Era and the more recent Islamic period. The ethnographical section covers reconstructions of the traditional majlis and lives of the people and includes household items, garments, utensils and gold and silver jewellery. The archaeological section displays ancient pendants, coins, fabrics, costumes and jewels. The Al Ain Palace Museum, located on the edge of the city's oasis, is a former residence of HH Sheikh Zayed. Built in 1937 and restored in 1998 as a living museum, it offers a nostalgic glimpse into a royal residence. Archaeological sites abound in nearby Rumeilah where there is a magnificent fort as well as the ruins of an Iron Age settlement and remnants of a disused falaj (water irrigation) system. Mud-brick houses on the northern edge of the city form Bida Bint Saud and date back several centuries. Full-day tour 10 to 50 The National Museum is open 8:30am to 7.30pm Saturday to Thursday, 3pm to 7.30pm Friday and is closed on Monday Book in advance
GIRAFFES AT AL AIN ZOO
A GLIMPSE OF THE FASCINATING WORLD OF FALCONRY
WILDLIFE WONDER The Al Ain Zoo, having undergone a series of landscaping transformations in the last few years, is now dedicated to exhibiting and conserving the wildlife of the desert world. The resort is one of the most ambitious wildlife projects embarked on and provides an opportunity for visitors to see the region's commitment to wildlife conservation. The largest park of its kind in the region it has a diverse variety of animal residents both great and small, indigenous and exotic. The wildlife park offers wide open spaces filled with wild animals such as giraffe, wildebeest, rhinoceros, zebra and ostrich, over
a 40-hectare area. Here visitors can explore the surroundings and experience a world-class resort at the same time. Local attractions include oryx and gazelle, while a big cat house holds lions, (including the endangered white lions of Sambona), tigers, pumas, leopards and jaguars. Duringthe summer, the zoo offers a night-time opening schedule, which allows visitors to view the unique behaviour of nocturnal animals. The park is also a leader in the conservation of desert antelopes. Part of a full-day tour Two to 50 Take a tour guide
Night ights A bird show at night with special lighting is also part of the zoo's programme, where untethered birds of prey fly overhead, oblivious to curious onlookers.
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attractions: al ain abu dhabi 2012
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AL AIN CAMEL MARKET: OPEN DAILY
Ideal for Group size Timings Top tip
THE THULE ADVENTURE TEAM LED BY RICHARD USSHER AT JEBEL HAFEET
MOUNTAIN HIGH
WORLD CONRY
SHIPS OF THE DESERT The camel has always played an important role in Arabian life and was often used as an alternative to currency when wealth was measured by how many camels a man owned. The payment of zakat (the portion of a MuslimÕs personal wealth which must be given for the relief of the poor and needy) was frequently paid in camels instead of money and a brideÕs dowry was often paid in the same way. Referred to as 'beasts of burden', camels were also a source of food and drink Ð their milk is very nutritious Ð and their wool was used in weaving rugs, pillows and clothes. The camel market in Al Ain is famous throughout Abu Dhabi
and attracts breeders and buyers from all over the UAE. It has recently been transferred from its city-centre location to a new site on the road to Mezyad towards the border with Oman. The lively, bustling market is open daily, entrance is free and, as pure open-air theatre, provides an opportunity to hear traders extolling the merits of their prized animals, discussing prices and negotiating sales. Many of these merchants and shepherds are from the Al Rashaidah tribes of Sudan and the Sultanate of Oman. Part of a day trip 10 to 30 Early mornings
THE JEBEL HAFEET MERCURE CHALLENGE
Jebel Hafeet challenge The mountain is the location for the annual Jebel Hafeet Mercure Challenge road cycling competition, which takes place every January. The mountain road extends for 11.7 kilometres upwards and, with 21 corners and an excellent road surface, sees riders punish themselves with an eight percent average mountain ascent.
Al Ain's crowning glory is one of the UAE's highest mountain, Jebel Hafeet, which dominates the landscape and forms part of the Hajar mountain range. Its impressive apex of 1,249 metres above the city is certainly an arresting sight and has become a soughtafter photographic opportunity. The same can be said for the summit, which has been made easy to ascend by the 13-kilometre road. The mountain is capped off by a circular viewing area for successful climbers to survey the land below. Jebel Hafeet is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including bats, foxes and snakes. A maze of caves traverse the sides of the mountain, while at its base the welldeveloped tourist attraction of Green Mubuzzarah offers hot-water springs emerging from a lake, complemented by a number of swimming pools and whirlpool facilities. Part of a day tour Five to 50 Visit early to avoid midday heat
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OUTSIDE THE BOX
With Abu Dhabi accounting for 87 percent of the UAE's landmass, there is much to see and explore beyond the city borders
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attractions: exploring abu dhabi 2012
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OASIS OF CALM Liwa Oasis is about 150 kilometres from Abu Dhabi city on the northern edge of the Rub Al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter (the biggest sand desert in the world with dunes up to 300 metres high). The oasis has been a magnet for explorers for more than half a century. It stretches approximately 100 kilometres east to west and is home to 50 villages. The desert surrounding Liwa has remained unchanged for centuries, retaining its mountainous red dunes. The area is great for camel rides, desert safaris, sand skiing and Bedouin camp trips. The geographical and economic centre of Liwa Oasis is Muzayri, but as a group, the villages of Liwa Oasis are the southern-most settlements of Abu Dhabi. Liwa itself features freshwater pools and date plantations. The village of Mahdar Bin Usayyan is located the furthest south and east in the region, about 10 kilometres from the border with Saudi Arabia. Part of a full-day itinerary 10 to 30 Avoid the midday heat Take a break at the Liwa Hotel
THE STUNNING LIWA OASIS
DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA ON SIR BANI YAS ISLAND OFFERS MOUNTAIN-BIKING TOURS
ON THE WATER Al Bateen, on the west side of Abu Dhabi island has its roots in the fishing and boat-building industry, way back before oil was discovered in the Ô60s. Close to the Corniche, the area is undergoing gradual redevelopment by the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) in partnership with the UAEÕs Belbadi Enterprises. Currently, the Marina Al Bateen offers a home to 200 boats and yachts with a gym, a swimming pool and three restaurants on site. When the new hotel is added, the whole district will evolve into a signature waterfront destination, a FishermenÕs Marina and the luxury five-star Al Bateen Wharf Hotel, plus berthing for 285 fishing boats and 38 racing dhows, when completed. There will also be a boardwalk of caf s, shops and restaurants. Even before development is complete the area is ideal for sightseeing Corniche cruises, bottlenose and humpback
Ideal for Group size Timings Top tip
dolphin-watching and various island trips. Al Bateen has a reputation for big-game sports fishing charters, scuba diving and snorkelling trips. Scuba-diving companies offer one- or twotank dives, night dives and wreck diving. Stand-up sports-fishing vessels come in a variety of sizes from 28 to 40 feet for groups of five and above. Half-day fishing trips should include all the equipment and an instructor to ensure that regulations to protect fish stocks are adhered to. Expect to catch kawa kawa, trevally, cobia and sailfish, but a catch-and-release programme is operated with all billfish, without exception. Half- or full-day tour Five to 30 Avoid the midday heat
Venue tip Book all boat trips with IGFAcertified captains and scuba-diving trips with PADI-qualified and medically trained instructors
ON YOUR BIKE Catch a sunrise when the surrounding scenery is at its most beautiful and take a morning bike ride. Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara on Sir Bani Yas Island will provide a guide to help cyclists pedal their way through the sanctuaryÕs wildlife out in full force early in the day. Ride across the desert salt flats and experience a glimpse of the island as it comes to life. The aim is to get back before breakfast and enjoy a few hours' recuperation by the pool. Alternatively, the Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road offers an 11-kilometre climb for the more extreme road rider. With an excellent road surface and an eight percent average incline, it should satisfy any hardcore cyclist. Mountain bikers can simply follow the 4x4 tracks, which surround the mountain and the hot springs. Part of a day Two to 10 Very early before it gets hot
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PLAY AWAY Whether it’s high-octane action on sand, land and water or tours of the region’s traditional heritage, Abu Dhabi provides a portfolio of playtime experiences for groups of all sizes
kayaking in the mangroves
As global hospitality brands eye up Abu Dhabi for their next hotel opening, the emirate continues to expand its portfolio of traditional and contemporary attractions, increasingly making it a top choice for the meetings and incentives industry. Add to that the country's diverse topography naturally lending itself to a wide range of activities on land, sand and water and you're left with a tremendous choice of impressive experiences for groups large or small. As far as the topography goes, Abu Dhabi has more than 400 kilometres of coastline, of which 10 kilometres are public beaches. Land cultivation and irrigation for agriculture, together with the modelling of attractive parks and plantations over the past decade, has increased the size of greener areas in the emirate to about five percent of the total land area. A small part of Abu Dhabi's land area is covered by mountains, which contain several caves across Jebel Hafeet and the Hajar
mountains near Al Ain. The coastal area contains pockets of wetland and mangrove colonies. Abu Dhabi also has dozens of islands, mostly small and uninhabited, some of which have been designated as sanctuaries for wildlife. From desert driving and Bedouin camp barbecues to camel racing, falconry and hiking, the term 'all work and no play' is definitely not the order of the day in Abu Dhabi. For a cultural experience, groups can enjoy guided tours of the exquisite Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or the prestigious Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, which includes an up-close-andpersonal falconry demonstration. The emirate is also home to world-class golf courses, including Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, the Arabian Gulf's first beachfront course Ð the ultimate experience for golfers who have done it all.
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incentives: experiences abu dhabi 2012
yola is a traditional dance performed by men
Al Ain Palace Museum
high-octane fun at ferrari world abu dhabi
Part of Abu Dhabi's unique charm is its blend of ancient and modern. Traditions, some of them little changed since the 19th century, co-exist with a 21st century economy and lifestyle The culinary heritage of the region is also incorporated into many incentive programmes. Traditional regional cuisine is all about sharing Ð perfect for group dinners, with plates of appetising mezze dishes followed by aromatically spiced charcoal-grilled fish, meat and vegetable dishes. Whether you opt for dinner at a licensed hotel restaurant or in a desert camp, local touches can include shisha pipes (hubbly bubbly), henna artists, live music and dancing, providing a dose of authenticity to the Arabian experience.
Warm welcome Abu Dhabi has a dedicated stable of professional tour opertors and destination management companies (DMCs) that can deliver a tailored incentive programme to suit any group and budget. Ayman Aridi, MICE director, Alpha Tours, says: "Hospitality is one of the most treasured values of Arab culture and visiting delegates will experience an authentic taste of Bedouin life and heritage in a safe, clean environment. Abu Dhabi's sporting and leisure facilities are world class. Moreover, the emirate is blessed with outstanding natural assets Ð beautiful beaches, spectacular desert scenery, 200 islands and endless sunshine. "Part of Abu Dhabi's unique charm is its blend of ancient and modern. Traditions, some of them little changed since the 19th century, co-exist with a 21st century economy and lifestyle; a juxtaposition that lies at the heart of modern society. Old-world courtesies still prevail and traditional culture is very much alive. Visitors can see craftsmen demonstrating ancient skills or
safari driving adventure in the desert
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A WAKEBOARDER AT THE AL GHARBIA WATERSPORTS FESTIVAL
Inspirational touch One of the Abu Dhabi's longestablished travel groups, Al Masaood Travel Management, offers to arrange "unforgettable experiences" with "touches of inspiration" for delegates heading to the emirate. With over 7,000 employees, Al Masaood arranges all aspects of visitors' business and incentive travel needs. With a promise to make a trip as smooth as possible, taking care of visas, transfers and airport 'meet-and-greet' services, a 24hour emergency service, a tailormade online reservation service, travel insurance, 'implanted' on-site professional consultants, cargo and equipment handling, helicopter and private jet travel and lastly, personalised venue search and acquisition. Al Masaood also owns its own luxury yacht available for charter, plus VIP coaches for transfers.
A JET SKIER SHOWS OFF HIS SKILLS AT THE AL GHARBIA WATERSPORTS FESTIVAL DRAG RACING AT YAS MARINA CIRCUIT
FAQs
FUTAISI ISLAND
experience camel riding, falconry, ayallah dancing, henna painting and learn about other ageold customs from local people proud to share their traditions," he adds. Local tour operators agree that Abu Dhabi holds special appeal as an incentive destination due to the richness of its culture and heritage proposition supported by a well-reported secure environment, high service levels and hospitality Ă? an inherent factor in the Arabic culture.
OFFSHORE ACTION Island activities are a strong draw for incentive groups, especially due to Yas Marina Circuit, the site for the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, meaning motorsport-related options including drag racing and karting facilities, are creating a new business buzz. Non-racing enthusiasts are equally well catered for with both Futaisi Island and Sir Bani Yas Island offering outdoor programmes to explore the local heritage. Futaisi, a 15-minute speedboat journey from the city shoreline, has a history dating back hundreds of years and is also home to an authentic Arabian fort built of traditional materials and a unique setting for private parties and group dinners.
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What type of activities are best suited to larger groups? Desert safaris can make for great large-scale group events. A winding convoy of 4x4 vehicles will transport teams out into the vast expanse of desert surrounding the capital for a thrilling ride between the impressive dunes before arriving at a traditional Bedouin encampment for dinner and entertainment. These camps can usually be hired out for private functions, allowing for branding, speeches and a corporate twist to proceedings. We are arranging a 'green' meeting. What incentives have the least impact on the emirate's environment? If you are going green avoid anything with petrol or power. Desert safaris are fun, but the impact that convoys of 4x4s is having on desert wildlife is hard to measure. The same goes for jet skis and powerboats on marine life. A visit to Al Futaisi Island or Sir Bani Yas Island, both of which have official nature reserves, will definitely tick the right environmental boxes. Here, your team can enjoy the wonders of indigenous creatures, such as gazelle, oryx and birds of prey, as well as migrating species, which are being protected and encouraged to breed on both islands.
A winning strategy begins with the first move. Leave it to the experts.
At CSI, we’re meticulous about event management. From government clearances to travel, accommodation, delegate coordination, marketing and venue selection, every aspect is perfectly planned until it comes together with total precision. Make the first move, call us on +971 4 303 4778. CSI is part of the Destination & Leisure Management division of the award-winning Emirates airline. congresssolutionsinternational.com
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2/8/12 12:04:53 PM
FUN IN THE SUN Dip into desert island life, zoom around an F1 circuit or enjoy a camel trek across the sand. These are just some of the thrilling escapes that lie beyond the city limits
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activities: outdoors abu dhabi 2012
The sheer variety of incentive opportunities in Abu Dhabi makes organising a corporate event easy even for the busiest executives. The regionﾃ不 varied terrain. Here are some of the activities and excursions we rate.
Need for speed With Yas Island the latest addition to the activities calendar, Abu Dhabi now boasts a high-octane option for group thrills. Yas Marina Circuit is home to an independent NHRA-accredited drag racing centre and karting track, as well as a driving academy and a tailored race experience is complemented by luxurious hospitality facilities. Ramp up the competitive spirit and get the adrenaline flowing by hiring the track for a day for a team-building race event. A total of 18 two-storey buildings equipped with their own kitchens and relaxation areas line the main Paddock and are ideal for small group events. The circuitﾃ不 North Grandstand acts as a natural amphitheatre setting for larger gatherings or gala entertainment options. There are also a further six smaller rooms incorporating office facilities, which are being marketed for niche meeting and incentive activities. For a sunset cocktail event, the stunning rooftop terrace of the media centre can welcome several hundred guests for a uniquely memorable experience.
Island hideaway With over 200 islands dotted off the coast, Abu Dhabi offers a vast array of untouched hideaways for groups keen to get off the beaten track or for an exclusive venue for a high-end incentive event. Futaisi Island, a 10-minute boat ride from the capital, offers pristine beaches, chalet accommodation and plenty of wildlife. It also features an Arabian fort, which can be hired out for events, making it an ideal venue for gala banquets. Other islands that are equally accessible from the city include Bahraini Island and Lulu, as well as Sir Bani Yas located in the emirateﾃ不 Western Region. All offer excellent opportunities for snorkelling or camping and are blank canvases for a memorable dinner setting or special evening of themed entertainment. Sir Bani Yas Island, the island nature reserve and experimental agricultural base, has undergone a massive amount of land reclamation, planting, irrigation and wildlife husbandry, creating a destination that somehow defies all expectations in terms of what can live and grow in this southern Arabian Gulf region. Future island developments include Saadiyat, home to the Abu Dhabi Louvre and Guggenheim museums.
With over 200 islands dotted off the coast, Abu Dhabi offers a vast array of untouched hideaways for groups keen to get off the beaten track intense conservation has helped boost numbers of the vulnerable arabian oryx population on sir bani yas island
beyond abu dhabi is a vast expanse of some of the biggest dunes in the UAE
Dune adventure Dune-driving safaris are a perennially popular and unique team-building event for visitors and Abu Dhabi is home to some of the most impressive dunes in the UAE. Rub Al Khali, the famed Empty Quarter, offers a vast expanse of dunes and oases for groups looking for a taste of desert life. Local tour operators and DMCs can arrange half- and full-day tours, which typically include a convoy of 4x4 vehicles zooming up and down the large dunes before arriving at a re-creation of a traditional Bedouin camp for dinner and drinks. A desert-safari experience traditionally includes a barbecue dinner, belly dancing and sometimes the opportunity for a sleepover under the stars. The spectacular sand dunes of Liwa provide a remarkable sight and experience for visitors. The journey to Liwa Oasis, which is located southwest of Abu Dhabi, adjoining the Empty Quarter, makes for an exciting adventure. The desert here has remained unchanged for centuries with its mountainous red dunes. An occasional Bedouin encampment is the only sign of habitation. Special trips into Liwa cover camel rides over red sands and overnight camping. Away from the splendour of Liwa, groups will find that former arid desert land has been converted into a prairie for fodder grass, covering many kilometres in the vast Western Region that extends out to the town of Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabiﾃ不 second-largest inland town after Al Ain. This area can be reached by travelling some of the way in a 4x4 vehicle and also partly on camel back.
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Racing times
Sail away A traditional Arabic dhow cruise is another must-do for groups visiting Abu Dhabi. An hour-long sunset cruise will take visitors along the breakwater of the city, providing spectacular views of the skyline at dusk. For five-star cruising, Le Royal M ridien Abu DhabiÕs Shuja Yacht, provides the best in fine dining, offering corporate executives and highprofile companies the opportunity to conduct meetings and mini-conferences on board. Fully equipped with trained service staff, state-ofthe-art communications and audio-visual systems, it is a stalwart of the charter scene. Exclusive private lunches and dinners for up to 100 guests can be arranged both on the Shuja Yacht and on smaller group charters through several other companies.
Aquatic action The combination of sunny skies and calm Gulf waters makes Abu Dhabi the perfect destination for water sport enthusiasts. Sailing, water skiing, canoeing, jet skiing and windsurfing are all available through local hotel beach clubs. For sub-aquatic action, the waters around the UAE are rich in marine and coral life. Dive sites are easily accessible and include wreck, deep-water and reef dives. There are a number of specialist dive companies catering to all levels of experience, including PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) training for beginners. For heads above water, deep-sea fishing is another popular activity and great for small groups. Sailfish, queenfish, shari, kingfish, dorado and the popular hammour can all be caught locally and then enjoyed on the barbecue. Divide your group into teams and see who can catch the most.
there are plenty of watersports on offer in the capital
Camel racing in Abu Dhabi takes place on Fridays and Saturdays during the winter months at special tracks around the emirate. The atmosphere at these events is charged with excitement, especially during public holidays when major races are held for a notinconsiderable prize purse. The main camel race tracks are Al Maqam Camel Racetrack, located 45 kilometres from Abu Dhabi city and the Al Wathba Camel Racetrack on the road to Al Ain. Horse-riding lessons for all abilities and age groups are widely available in Abu Dhabi, with the riding club at Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club ranking among the most popular. The club, just a short drive from the city centre, is one of the regionÕs most impressive venues for horse racing and show-jumping events, with two race tracks, fibre sand and fibre turfs, an equine swimming pool and an indoor show-jumping arena. Race meetings, usually held between November and April, include the PresidentÕs Cup, National Day Cup and Emirates Championship. The Ghantoot Polo and Racing Club, approximately an hourÕs drive from Abu Dhabi, has four floodlit polo fields, a racing grandstand and a polo school, among other facilities.
Sports resort Strategically located in Khalifa City, 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport and 20 from the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Al Forsan International Sports Resort is the ultimate destination for sports professionals, enthusiasts and corporate groups events. With state-of-theart facilities, the resort aims to establish itself as a major sports and leisure hub in Abu Dhabi. The Al Forsan resort incorporates: a CIK-approved professional motorsport track; air-conditioned and themed paintball domes; shooting facilities for the experienced and novice alike, offering Olympic disciplines and sporting clays, handgun and rifle ranges; an equestrian centre for riding, polo, show jumping and dressage; a watersports park with a watercable system for wakeboards, wake skates, kneeboards, mono skis or water skis; and a rugby, football and racket-ball centre. Guests are also spoilt for choice at the resort when it comes to dining, with food lounges in each facility; snack bars, restaurants and caf s. The resort also offers conference and banqueting facilities and services for groups large and small. Trainers run for cover as the camel race begins
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activities: outdoors abu dhabi 2012
Golf hotspots No business negotiation is complete without a round of golf and Abu Dhabi offers some of the best greens in the Gulf. The emirate is home to a growing number of golf courses, all of which offer clubhouses, immaculate greens or browns, lush fairways and a range of additional facilities, including quality pro shops and dedicated coaching facilities with PGA-qualified professionals. One of the latest additions to the emirate is the much-publicised Gary Player-designed Saadiyat Beach Golf Club on Saadiyat Island. A par-72 figure-of-eight configuration, it is the first such facility to launch on the island. Yas Links is another golfing hotspot suitable for team-building sessions and events. The Kyle Phillips-designed course on Yas Island has floodlit practice ranges, a golf academy and upscale facilities. Other enues include the Al Ghazal Golf Club, an 18-hole, 6,450-yard, par-71 sand golf course, located near the international airport,
the abu dhabi hsbc golf championship took place in january at the abu dhabi golf club
and Abu Dhabi City Golf Club, a nine-hole, 6,350-yard, par-70 floodlit course, set in the middle of a racetrack in the Mushrif area in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi Golf Club, managed by Troon Golf, is located just outside the city and is described as a Ôsuper courseÕ by sections of the golfing press. Home to the renowned Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, which takes place every January, the club features one world-class, par-72 18-hole golf course, namely the National Course and a nine-hole par-36 Garden Course.
High altitude The oasis town of Al Ain offers ample activities for the outdoor adventurer, with its main attraction being the soaring Jebel Hafeet Ð one of the highest mountains in the UAE. For those with a penchant for the outdoors, the rugged Omani mountains offer ample opportunities for climbing, abseiling and camping. However, make sure your team is up for the challenge.
Abu Dhabi Golf Club, managed by Troon Golf, is located just outside the city and is described as a ‘super course’ by sections of the golfing press
FAQs Is it OK for female group members to wear shorts and t-shirts when participating in activities? The UAE is a Muslim country and, therefore, it is advisable to dress conservatively when in public areas. However, modest shorts are acceptable for outdoor activities, including boat trips and island adventures. Beachwear is acceptable for beach and water activities, but make sure all female group members cover up afterwards. Is it possible to fit more than one activity in a day? Yes, providing the activities are all city based. Abu Dhabi is the largest emirate and, therefore, transfer times to some events may take as long as 90 minutes. Otherwise, offer multiple options at one destination. An island adventure, for example, could also include fishing or diving, as well as beach-based activities.
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In POLE POSITION For speed enthusiasts, Yas Island’s F1 Grand Prix is undoubtedly a huge draw, yet Yas also boasts alternative pedal-to-the-metal incentive options, luxury hotels and excellent meeting spaces to accommodate visitors all year round Well placed on the grid and raring to go, Abu Dhabi's tourism industry truly accelerated when the emirate hosted its first Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on November 1, 2009. Spectators from around the world converged on Abu Dhabi's Yas Island in tens of thousands for an action-packed threeday motorsports extravaganza. Now firmly on the yearly Abu Dhabi special-events calendar, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix takes place this year from November 2 to 4. Abu Dhabi has secured the rights to host a Grand Prix until 2016 and the UAE is currently one of only 20 countries licensed to hold F1 Grand Prix races. The event offers a host of options for corporate groups looking for hospi-
yas marina circuit can accommodate everything from large-scale groups to smaller private parties
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tality options. However, for those whose hearts refuse to race at the thought of the Grand Prix, Yas Island offers a plethora of meeting and incentive options throughout the year. Spanning 25 square kilometres and strategically located within easy reach of Abu Dhabi city and the main arterial roads to Dubai and Al Ain, Yas Island boasts world-class hotels, a marina, theme park and golf course with a shopping mall and water park all in various stages of development, making it one of the most exhilarating tourism destinations in the region. Yas Island is being developed by Aldar Properties, the company behind the Al Raha Beach project and the regeneration of downtown Abu Dhabi where the Central Market is situated.
Racing ahead The Yas Marina Circuit offered a number of motor racing world firsts when it opened. Unique attractions include the Yas Viceroy hotel which straddles the track; a solarpowered VIP hospitality tower offering unsurpassed track views from 60 metres high; and fully covered, luxury grandstands capable of seating 50,000 race-goers. Bernie Ecclestone, president of Formula One, has described Yas Marina Circuit as "one of the most exciting tracks I have ever seen". From the twisting Singapore-style street sections to the Monaco-inspired marina, Yas Marina Circuit serves up an array of challenges for the world's best drivers. The 5.5-kilometre-
activities: yas island abu dhabi 2012
the annual formula 1 etihad airways abu dhabi grand prix provides first-class corporate hospitality
From the twisting Singapore-style street sections to the Monaco-inspired marina, Yas Marina Circuit serves up an array of challenges for the world’s best drivers long circuit can operate as two independent, fully functioning tracks, offering options for simultaneous events to be hosted. For corporates, there are numerous ways to get up close to the rubberburning action, with Yas Marina Circuit offering year-round events and hospitality options. At the first Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and subsequent Grands Prix, the Paddock Club offered a premium corporate entertainment experience, with unrivalled views over the pit lane, fine cuisine and unique opportunities to network among VIPs from the worlds of business, sport and entertainment.
Corporate opportunities at Yas Marina Circuit also extend well beyond the Grand Prix. Hospitality is offered at a range of other motorsport events throughout the year. The venue hosts other racing competitions, including the FIA GT 1 World Championship, Yas V8 400 and the GP2 Asia Series. For groups wanting to get closer to the action, Yas Marina Circuit offers a drag strip and a karting circuit for corporate events. There is also a driving academy, while the Yas Viceroy hotel, Yas Marina and Yas Yacht Club also offer numerous venues, activities and entertainment options.
Hotel options
the Club Rotana Lounge at YAS ISLAND rotana abu dhabi
Nautilus Seafood Restaurant, Yas Viceroy
Seven hotels opened on Yas Island ahead of the inaugural Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, all of which are operated by internationally renowned brands. The Yas Viceroy hotel is an iconic contemporary hotel and part of the Yas Island experience. Additionally, the six Golf Plaza hotels Ð Crowne Plaza, Staybridge Suites, Rotana, Centro, Radisson Blu and Park Inn Ð provide accommodation for very large meetings, previously unavailable in Abu Dhabi. With Abu Dhabi hotels boasting high occupancy rates in recent years, finding rooms that can host events for between 500 and 1,000 people has not been easy. However, having seven hotels on Yas Island has gone some way to partially addressing the issue.
The five-star, 500-room Yas Viceroy is the flagship property for the hotels cluster. It straddles Yas Marina Circuit and is completely unique with an eye-catching shell cloaking the property. The Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island offers 428 rooms, including a club floor and 45 suites. The property has comprehensive meetings facilities with: a 500-square-metre ballroom, divisible into four; a boardroom capable of accommodating up to 80; and three meeting rooms, each with a capacity for 50 delegates. Sister property Staybridge Suites Abu Dhabi Yas Island targets the extended-stay market, offering an alternative to a conventional hotel for those who need to be in Abu Dhabi for a longer duration. The property offers free Wi-Fi broadband, an exercise room, hub kitchen, pantry and guest services for its 165 suites.
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yas links boasts a magnificant sea view
Regional hotel operator Rotana operates the Yas Island Rotana which brings 281 rooms, 27 suites and five dining outlets to the island. The property has six flexible meeting rooms and a ballroom with a maximum capacity of 402. A dedicated conference team is on hand to facilitate any event, large or small. Centro Yas Island, Rotana's business-focused limited-service brand, offers 259 rooms and three meeting rooms with a capacity of 74 people. Europe's Rezidor hotel group also has a double bill on Yas Island with a Radisson Blu and a Park Inn. Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi, Yas Island boasts 397 guestrooms and suites, all with free Wi-Fi access. Meetings and events facilities include the 445-square-metre Galaxy Ballroom and seven other meeting rooms. The Park Inn Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, includes 204 guestrooms with four one-bedroom suites and six deluxe. It also has two modern meeting rooms with natural daylight, free Wi-Fi and the latest audio-visual equipment.
Nautical craft Yas Marina, which is bordered by Yas Marina Circuit, is home to the iconic Yas Viceroy and an exclusive yacht club. As development continues, Yas Island will offer several worldclass marinas capable of accommodating a total of 1,500 vessels.
Seaplane flights For an aerial view of some of the UAE's most notable sights, consider taking a seaplane flight from Yas Island to Dubai. The newly launched flight with Seawings takes around 40 minutes and provides unique photographic opportunities of iconic landmarks such as Yas Marina
The newly launched flight with Seawings takes around 40 minutes and provides not-to-be-missed photographic opportunities of iconic landmarks
World of fun In addition to the adrenaline-pumping excitement of the F1, Yas Island also provides a host of alternative attractions. The world's largest indoor theme park, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, offers more than 20 rides and attractions with five dining outlets. The iconic roof is designed on the classic double-curve body shell of the Ferrari GT car and covers a total area of 200,000 square metres. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi has a dedicated special-events team to help build unique packages for each client.
Links tee time Yas Island is home to the first links golf course in the Middle East. This championship course, designed by Kyle Phillips, is located on the west shores of the island and offers a 4,000-squaremetre clubhouse as well as floodlit practice ranges and a golf academy. The course provides an unparalleled golf experience with rolling hills and seashore green locations.
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Circuit and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and on to Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah in Dubai. The Seawings Classique Yas Experience incorporates a flight on a Cessna 208 seaplane, which accommodates eight passengers, or nine if someone in the group sits beside the pilot. Each person has his or her own window so as to enjoy unobstructed views. Passengers board the plane from a pontoon behind Yas Yacht Club and receive a short safety briefing before take-off. The flight takes passengers over Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, highlighting views of the racing circuit and eye-catching Yas Viceroy hotel. From Yas Island, the seaplane follows the coastline towards Dubai, past Ghantoot Racing
take A seaplane flight for an aerial perspective
activities: yas island abu dhabi 2012
yas viceroy is ideally positioned over yas marina circuit
& Polo Club where the HH President of UAE Polo Cup is held, and on to Jebel Ali. Flying at 2,000 feet, the journey takes in the high-rise Dubai Marina, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah before descending in Deira and docking at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club.
Retail detail Yas Island will offer 235,000 square metres of retail space for popular brands. The 500-unit Yas Mall, although still under development until 2013, will set a new benchmark in retail and feature a central entertainment zone with one of the world's largest LCD screens. With such a diverse offering, Yas Island offers an all-inclusive alternative location for corporate groups wanting to combine meetings with leisure.
Pool resources Aldar Properties is constructing a huge waterpark on Yas Island, with delivery schedule this year. The 16.4-hectare Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi will feature more than 40 rides and attractions including four one-of-a-kind rides that have never been seen before in a water park, according to Aldar. Themed and landscaped, with 'bomber', 'maelstrom' and 'hurricane' water rides, the park will also include a wave pool, lazy river, cable water skiing, scuba diving and sand lounging, while carrying an Emirati theme.
Need to know
ferrari world's formula rosso is the world's fastest rollercoaster
Catch of the day Fishing trips should only be booked through a licensed operator, as there are many regulations in place to protect sealife F1 hospitality Corporate options for the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix are quickly signed up. Plan well in advance if you want to build a meeting or corporate incentive around the 2012 race Thrills and spills Why not break up a typical business trip by heading down to the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park for an adrenaline-fuelled day Calendar of events Yas Marina Circuit has a busy calendar of motorsports events for 2012, so if the F1 does not fit with your schedule find out what other races are taking place throughout the year Traditional attractions The centre of Abu Dhabi is only a 15-minute drive away so be sure to combine the modern-day wonders of Yas Island with some of the more traditional attractions of the city
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ABU DHABI IS HOME TO A number of international POWERBOAT RACEs
WINNING FORMULA From Formula One and golf to powerboat racing and polo, Abu Dhabi is going for gold to host world-class sporting events that attract visitors from around the world and put the emirate firmly on the sporting map In terms of a leader board, Abu Dhabi is up there with some of the top international sports venues in the world. From the thrills of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, to tennis, horse racing and cricket, Abu Dhabi's range of stunning high-end venues is enticing major international competitions and persuading them to make the emirate their home. Welcoming world-class athletes and sporting legends, on top of producing top-quality national sports stars itself, Abu Dhabi is set for an exciting and lively 2012 sports-fest and, as with everything to do with the capital, these events are presented with heaps of Arabian hospitality, five-star facilities and incomparable corporate entertainment options.
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Golf The biggest event on the PGA European Tour, the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship saw a selection of golf's greatest names, including Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, battle over the birdies at the end of January. Since its inception by the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority in 2006, the championship has been staged at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club. Its ongoing success, says the authority, is laying the foundations for Abu Dhabi's emergence as an international golfing destination. The capital now boasts three championship-standard courses ready to host further challenges.
activities: sport abu dhabi 2012
Paul Casey at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship
Corporate opportunities at Yas Marina Circuit continue throughout the year, as the venue hosts other racing competitions, such as the FIA GT 1 World Championship and the YAS V8 400 In 2011, the event attracted 30,000 spectators over the four-day tournament. This year, the figure rose to a massive 82,000 with an estimated television audience of 400 million. No pressure then, for England's Robert Rock, who, having started the last day of the competition as joint overnight leader, kept his cool to hold off 14-times Major winner Tiger Woods and go on to win the 2012 Falcon Trophy. Rock was presented the trophy in front of packed grandstands by HH Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, chairman of the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, who said: "We promised the giants of golf and fans have certainly seen massive performances from the game's biggest names. Today, we add another giant to our pantheon. Well done Robert, you stood up to the test and are a thoroughly deserving champion." Rock admitted: "This win is special. It's such a big tournament, with a huge field and to play with Tiger today was something I will never forget. "It's difficult playing with Tiger. You expect almost every shot to threaten to go in. I felt a lot of pressure and couldn't afford any lapses in concentration at all. It was a lot of work, but I am very happy now," he added. Previous winners also include Germany's Martin Kaymer, England's Paul Casey and Chris Dimarco from the US.
The Abu Dhabi Golf Club, which staged the championship, is hailed as a world-class sporting facility and shows the UAE capital's ability to build top-tier venues for international events. With enhanced spectator platforms, an expanded Championship Village, restaurants, cafÂŽs and competitions, the championship is also one of the most fan-friendly events on the map. This year, the village included a range of interactive games available within the HSBC Interactive Village and visitors had the chance to take home prizes, including signed merchandise and photographs from the very popular Giants of Golf photo experience. The whole championship is central to Abu Dhabi's long-term golf tourism strategy, which is being further empowered with the creation of new facilities on Saadiyat Island and Yas Island. Abu Dhabi Golf Club, managed by Troon Golf, offers hospitality packages for groups at the annual event; tables of 10 can be reserved at the Falcon Terrace, providing unobstructed views of the ninth and 18th holes.
groups.Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island is home to the emirate's F1 track and is host to the event, opening to much fanfare for the inaugural Grand Prix in 2009. The track itself is 5.55 kilometres long. It is divided into a three-kilometre permanent circuit for the public and a 2.6-kilometre city layout exclusively for F1 racing, combining the benefits of a high-speed track and a street circuit. Taking one minute and 38 seconds per lap, the course includes 21 turns and sees drivers achieving top speeds of 320 kilometres an hour. It is one of the longest and most demanding tracks in the world and includes an iconic grandstand hairpin to challenge drivers and wow spectators. Additional attractions are part of the Yas Marina Circuit experience and include the Yas Viceroy hotel, which straddles the track, a solar-powered VIP hospitality tower offering unrivalled track views and fully covered luxury grandstands for 50,000 race-goers. Corporate opportunities at the circuit continue throughout the year, as the venue hosts other racing competitions, such as the FIA GT 1 World Championship and the YAS V8 400. The instant impact and celebrity status offered with an enormous television audience has served to establish Abu Dhabi's Yas Island as a world venue for racing. Dayne Lim Kok Chun, product development division Abu Dhabi will wave the chequered flag for the fourth year running IN 2012
Formula One Abu Dhabi will wave the chequered flag for the fourth year running as the emirate plays host to one of the final Grands Prix of the year from November 2 to 4. Having secured the rights to host the Grand Prix until 2016, the yearly event offers a pit-load of options for corporate
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Abu Dhabi sports ‘must-dos’
A FULL CALENDER OF POLO EVENTS CAN BE ENJOYED
director at the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, stresses, however, that the emirate has not been relying on just one event to encourage visitors. A strategic masterplan has been devised to leverage further potential and bring in other activities, infrastructure development, hotels, marina extension, a golf course and water park as well as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
TENNIS Last year's Mubadala World Tennis Championship from December 29 to 31 saw the strongest line-up of global tennis stars to ever compete in the Middle East. On the final day of the competition, Serbian Novak Djokovic defeated Spain's David Ferrer in two sets, 6-2, 6-1, while third place went to Rafael Nadal who beat his close rival Roger Federer. At the close of play Shaitha Al Romaithi from event organiser Flash Entertainment said: "The Mubadala World Tennis Championship has truly come of age as the start of the global tennis season with a world-class experience for the players and fans alike." The power-driven action on court was complemented by the Tennis Village, which has been expanded with live entertainment, a picnic area and an interactive zone. VIP seating provided first-class sightlines, while the hospitality wing offered food, beverages and a bar. Additional corporate hospitality options combined the tennis with New Year celebrations. Young tennis enthusiasts were also offered the chance to play against a major tennis star as part of the Mubadala Community Cup.
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POLO For a more high-end sporting experience, why not head for the elegant settings of the Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club? Situated on the border of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the club boasts the best facilities in the region with a magnificent clubhouse and seven polo pitches. Following a very successful 2011 season, which saw the Abu Dhabi Polo Club lift the coveted Dubai Gold Cup, the club triumphed again at the 2012 Dubai Silver Cup in February this year, drawing a huge crowd to the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club. March sees the final of the President's Cup at the RAFAEL NADAL
Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship Mubadala World Tennis Championship President's Cup for polo One-day International Cricket Formula One World Championship Powerboat Race National Day Cup/President's Cup for horseracing Dhow racing Camel racing International Aerobatic Championship Abu Dhabi International Triathlon
Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club. The grand final on March 30 is the number one polo event in the Middle East. The tournaments are invitation-only for spectators, but planners interested in organising an incentive event combining an evening of polo can contact the club direct. The event incorporates free activities, picnic areas and corporate hospitality restaurants.
CRICKET With a huge contingent of Pakistani and Indian resident expatriates, not to mention locally based English, Australian and South African cricket fans, the cast-iron guar-
activities: sport abu dhabi 2012
antee of vociferous support is seeing Abu Dhabi emerge as a one-day international cricket venue. International teams are visiting the emirate for serious competition and charity games, attracted by the five-star facilities and great winter weather. January and February 2012 saw the England versus Pakistan Test Series played out at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium at Sas Al Nakhl, Abu Dhabi. The stadium hosts over 500 games a year played by Abu Dhabi's growing number of teams, currently totalling 62. The Al Ain Cricket Ground also offers all-year-round tournaments and coaching on its full-sized pitch.
Camel racing For a truly Arabian sporting activity, why not take the team to see the unusual sport of camel racing? An opportunity to experience the electric atmosphere of this unique sport that is part of the heritage of the UAE is not to be missed. The season starts in October and runs until March, with racing taking place on Fridays and Saturdays. There are two main tracks Ð one at Al Maqam Camel Racetrack east of Abu Dhabi and the other at Al Malagit in Al Ain.
Horseracing Horseracing is also a big draw in Abu Dhabi. The racing season generally runs from November to March and includes up to 50 meetings, divided between thoroughbreds and Arabian purebreds. camel racing with robot jockeys
Highlights include the National Day Cup, which takes place every year and the President's Cup, which offers the princely sum of AED1 million (US$272,000) in prize money. Races take place at the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club.
horseracing at the abu dhabi equestrian club
Powerboat racing On the international scene, the UAE has become a major force in a sport to which it is a much more recent convert, involving speed on water rather than on land. The UAE regularly unveils a top-class team to compete in the UIM Formula One World Championship powerboat race, which climaxes every November/December. Abu Dhabi plays a prominent role in a fourrace Middle East season of UIM F1 powerboat madness, as boats slice through the surf in front of tens of thousands of spectators. The 50-lap Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi starts at the Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club by the Breakwater and loops from there to the Corniche and back to provide a real open-water spectacle. Described as driving a Formula One racing car at full speed over a ploughed field, the powerboats accelerate faster than the F1 cars. They are capable of going from a standstill to 160 kilometres per hour in only four seconds, competing at these speeds without the use of brakes or gears and leaving spectators breathless by this extreme sport.
Dhow racing There may be less speed involved, but competition is still fierce for the many dhow races held in Abu Dhabi in January, February, May and June. Traditional wooden dhows present an evocative and majestic sight when racing. The racing vessels are usually 40 to 60 feet long and are either powered by men (up to 100 oarsmen per dhow) or the wind. In addition to regular dhow races, further regattas are held on special occasions. Abu Dhabi hosts short coastal races where the boats have a shallow drought, ideal for sailing closer to the Corniche.
Triathlon Choosing between a punishing longdistance competition, a less-gruelling short-distant race or an ultra-quick sprint might be difficult for some, but all are catered for in the Abu Dhabi International Triathlon, held in the city each March. With each of the three disciplines Ð swimming, biking and running Ð start-
ing at the public beach on the Corniche, the triathlon welcomes competitors and supporters alike. The city closes the necessary roads to accommodate the growing numbers of athletes that now compete each year. The long-distance competition comprises an eye-watering three-kilometre swim, a 200-kilometre bike ride and a 20-kilometre run. The short-distance race is cut to a 1.5-kilometre swim, a 100-kilometre bike ride and a 10-kilometre run and the sprint is a mere 750-metre swim, 50-kilometre bike ride and a five-kilometre run. However, if you're not up to tackling all three disciplines by yourself, form a team of three for the relay competition where one team member swims, one bikes and one runs.
Extreme sports The Al Ain International Aerobatic Show is a breathtaking and daring display performed by some of the world's top pilots and aerobatic teams. The four-day event, which will take place from November 30 to December 2, is seen by nearly 130,000 spectators who also enjoy activities on the ground during the displays. More than 100 aircraft regularly perform in this annual show, which sees them take to the skies to play out a series of outrageous stunts in a bid to clinch the US$100,000 first prize.
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spring and autumn migrations bring more than 250,000 shore birds tO the island
PARADISE ISLAND Remote island nature reserve Sir Bani Yas is a wildlife oasis just waiting to be discovered by incentive groups who prefer a unique eco-based destination that also offers alternative full-on adventure 46
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activities: eco-tourism abu dhabi 2012
A little-known and unique gem of an incentive experience is on offer to adventurous event organisers keen to look beyond the city limits of the emirate's capital. Just a short flight, or longer drive if preferred, Sir Bani Yas is a remote desert island 250 kilometres from Abu Dhabi. Populated by wildlife experts, staff from the island's hotel and thousands of free-roaming wild animals, the island is ideal for a unique nature-based incentive trip for up to 50 people. With a conference centre under development at the Desert Islands Resort & Spa, Sir Bani Yas will also offer a unique setting for meetings and events. The venue will have a main hall that can handle 350 people, a boardroom and eight breakout rooms. The former nature reserve of the late HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, first president of the UAE, the island was a low-key tourist spot for several years before being upgraded and relaunched to the public as the emirate's first eco-tourism destination in late 2008. Guests can enjoy a range of activities on the island, including mountain biking, kayaking, hiking and game drives, or they can simply unwind on a sun lounger and gaze out over crystal-clear seas. A state-of-the-art riding facility opened in March. There will also be several other leisure activities to indulge in, such as splashing around at the watersports and dive centre. For visitors flying in, Sir Bani Yas is a roundshaped island covered in patches of greenery and fringed by sandy beaches. From the air it looks tiny, but Sir Bani Yas measures 87 square kilometres and is the largest natural island in the
UAE. Sir Bani Yas has been developed by TDIC (Tourism Development & Investment Company) and is the first of eight islands to open to the public. The others include Dalma Island, to the northwest of Sir Bani Yas and the small group of Discovery Islands to the east, all of which make up the Desert Islands collection. After disembarking, guests board a mini足 bus and are driven slowly (the island imposes a 50-kilometre speed limit on all vehicles) to the nearby Sir Bani Yas Harbour, where seaplanes land and take off, transporting visitors between the island and the cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The visitors' centre on the eco-island features 100 percent biodegradable paper tags. The idea is that each new visitor writes his or her name on a tag, which is then attached to a mangrove and planted on the island. It is a way of giving visitors ownership of the island and shows that sustainability is high on the agenda. The first resort to open on the island was the Desert Islands Resort & Spa. Managed by Thai hosp足i足tality group Anantara, it is a 64-room boutique hotel located on the north shore of the island, about a 20-minute drive from the seaport.
Wildlife park Originally conceived as a wildlife reserve more than 20 years ago to ensure the survival of the region's most endangered species, the Arabian Wildlife Park covers more than half of Sir Bani Yas and is home to many free-roaming animals, including one of the world's largest herds of Arabian oryx. This species of antelope is almost extinct in the wild.
sir bani yas is a bird-watcher's paradise
the distinctive arabian leopard
go mountain-biking on sir bani yas
Sir Bani Yas is also a bird-watcher's paradise. About 170 species of birds have been spotted on the island, including flamingos that gather in dense flocks in the shallow lagoons. During the spring and autumn migrations, more than 250,000 shore birds nest and feed on the island's intertidal sand and mud flats. The island's wealth of flora and fauna makes it an ideal safari destination and this is just one option available to incentive groups. There are only a handful of tarmac roads across the island, flanked by row upon row of trees, bushes and shrubs, all carefully tended and watered. For a remote desert island, Sir Bani Yas certainly is verdant, despite having no fresh water source; it's all pumped in from the Abu Dhabi mainland. Transportation is via safari-style converted 4x4s, which have open sides and canvas curtains that tie back to offer views across the landscape.
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GET BACK TO NATURE BY BOOKING A GAME DRIVE
ANIMAL MAGIC Brightly coloured peacocks and sprightly gazelles can be spotted roaming freely among the trees by the side of the road. There is also a fenced-off enclosure containing huge emus. The fences are not so much to keep the animals in, rather to separate various species that may not coexist harmoniously with one another. Other magnificent creatures on view include the beisahorned oryx and black buck antelope. There are also 36 giraffes on the island.
MAGNIFICENT MAJLIS As the safari winds up a rugged track, the tarmac road ends and the landscape changes dramatically. Gone is the flat, sandy coast with mangroves dotting the shoreline. On higher ground, the vegetation becomes sparse, while the rocky hillside gleams red and pink in the sunlight from trace minerals present on the island. At one of the highest points is the grand-looking Sheikh Zayed's majlis (meeting place). Built high up in the hills, the majlis not only affords stunning views across the island, but also has the benefit of cooler breezes. Close by is the famous 'Green Mountain', a large hill bathed in a surreal emerald green, which, it turns out, is actually vegetation. The story goes that Sheikh Zayed requested he be able to see natural greenery from his hilltop majlis. To accommodate his wish, an entire nearby hill was irrigated and is, to this day, still covered in lush grass.
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Guests can enjoy a range of activities on the island, including mountain-biking, kayaking, hiking and game drives, or they can simply unwind on a sun lounger and gaze out over crystal-clear seas
Need to know Sir Bani Yas is part of the Desert Islands, a group of eight natural islands that also includes the historical Dalma Island and the previously unexplored Discovery Islands Sir Bani Yas is located in the Arabian Gulf, approximately eight kilometres from Abu Dhabi's western coastline (in the Al Gharbia region) and a 250-kilometre drive from Abu Dhabi city Marsa Jebel Dhanna is the mainland gateway to Desert Islands and features a two-kilometre jetty with boat transport to the islands, including Sir Bani Yas A seaplane service from Abu Dhabi International Airport takes about 50 minutes to reach Sir Bani Yas
activities: eco-tourism abu dhabi 2012
a wide variety of resilient desert-tolerant plants CAN BE FOUND
Going green Sir Bani Yas is being developed with respect to the island's delicate ecosystem. Contributing to the island's sustainability drive, the region's only wind turbine, which also happens to be the largest wind turbine in the Middle East, powers a portion of the island's facilities. Expanding on Sheikh Zayed's eco-philosophy, Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) plans to utilise solar and wind solutions throughout Desert Islands following Abu Dhabi's commitment to sourcing seven percent of its power from renewable sources within the next nine years. TDIC has partnered with Masdar, the Abu Dhabi government's future energy company responsible for developing renewable energy resources in the emirate. Masdar's alternative energy-production facility on Sir Bani Yas powers the island's desalination plant. Water for the island will be sourced from this desalination plant, thus guaranteeing a good supply for the animals.
Nature retreat
carrying out more excavations and it is hoped some may one day be accessible to tourists. Another example of the island's ancient heritage is pearl diving. Historical evidence suggests that the pristine waters around Sir Bani Yas supported a thriving trade in pearl fishing Ð the island of 'Sirbeniast' was recorded in 1590 by Gasparo Balbi, a Venetian jeweller, as an island around which pearls were found. the warm waters AROUND sir bani yas ISLAND are ideal for snorkelling
Archaeology As the safari veers towards the coast, there is an old settlement, just one of the 36 archaeological sites discovered so far on the island. A pre-Islamic Christian monastery (thought to be older than any Christian church in Europe) has been unearthed. Meanwhile, some of the human settlements to be found date back to the Bronze Age, making Sir Bani Yas one of the oldest known inhabited areas in the Gulf. Some of the region's earliest evidence of date cultivation has also been discovered around the island. While the Sir Bani Yas archaeological sites are presently off-limits to visitors, Abu Dhabi Islands Archaeological Survey (ADIAS) is
Explore the outdoors In addition to wildlife adventure, incentive groups can indulge in a host of outdoor activities which lend themselves well to team building. One such option is kayaking. Usually kayaking takes place around the mangroves on the east coast of Sir Bani Yas, but during low tide can include the secluded bay next to the hotel. Dolphins, sea turtles and dugongs are regularly seen around the island. For those of an even more active persuasion, there is still the option to try out mountain biking, hiking and horse riding. That's the beauty of Sir Bani Yas Ð visitors can do as much or as little as they like. From close encounters with exotic animals to rugged scenery, ancient heritage, outdoor pursuits or simply the chance to enjoy unspoiled beaches, this unique island sanctuary has it all.
Sir Bani Yas spans 87 square kilometres, making it roughly the same size as the main Abu Dhabi island. The name originates from the Bani Yas tribe, which first inhabited Abu Dhabi. The island is home to around 23 species of free-roaming animals, including giraffes, a variety of antelope and one of the world's largest herds of critically endangered Arabian oryx. Dolphins, dugongs, sea turtles and other indigenous sealife inhabit the waters around the island. Sheikh Zayed implemented a no-fishing zone around Sir Bani Yas more than 25 years ago, which means the island has more sea life than other parts of Abu Dhabi's coastal areas. Many species of wild birds are indigenous to the region and several non-indigenous species have settled during migration and made the island their permanent home. Birdlife includes flamingos, seagulls, cormorants, wild fowl, pintails, teal, crab plovers, avocets and grey herons. The Arabian Wildlife Park covers more than half the island and is home to many animals that the World Conservation Union classifies as critically endangered or vulnerable to the wild, including sea turtles, sand gazelles, blackbuck antelope, urial sheep, barbary sheep and Arabian oryx. Therefore, the island plays a significant role in protecting these animals for future generations. As part of Sheikh Zayed's 'Greening of the Desert' programme, nearly 2.5 million plants and trees have been planted on Sir Bani Yas, including more than 18,000 date palms and olive groves.
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Use an online registration system to reduce paper • Make two-sided copies on any handouts and try to limit speaker handouts • Use recycled paper or paper from a sustainable timber source where possible • Do not hand out a plastic conference bag. If you must have a bag, make sure it is made of recycled materials • Reuse and recycle name badges, printing name inserts on recycled paper • Provide water in pitchers or large bottled water stations instead of individual bottles • Use cloth instead of paper napkins and cutlery instead of plastic utensils • Eliminate the use of disposable items, especially Styrofoam • Choose a hotel and meeting venue that already adheres to green codes of practice • Make use of the hotel’s linen and towel reuse programme • Request bulk amenities, make sure consumable amenities are not replaced daily • Encourage delegates to turn off lights and air-conditioning while not in use
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An exceptionally high number of turtles nest in Oman each year and this natural phenomenon has become a popular tourism attraction with both leisure travellers and corporate incentive groups. However, visitors must ensure that they enjoy this natural spectacle responsibly and the easiest way to ensure this is to go through an established turtle-watching centre. Positioned on the very eastern tip of Oman, about a four-hour drive south of Muscat, is the isolated bay of Ras Al Jinz. Its beaches are the largest nesting site for green turtles on the Indian Ocean, attracting an average of 30,000 nesting animals a year. The Ras Al Jinz Scientific and Visitors Centre, located within a 120-square-kilometre nature reserve, is pioneering the concept of ecotourism in Oman, offering meeting and incentive groups a chance to get up close and personal with green sea turtles as they lay their eggs.
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A state-of-the-art ecotourism facility, it also nestteaches groups about the animals and their nest ing habits and all funds raised go straight back conserinto the project to fund research and conser vation activities. "The numbers of turtles are nestincreasing steadily. There are already new nest ing places that were previously avoided by the turtles. This is a pioneer project – the aim now is to replicate and customise this best practice in other protected areas in Oman," says Ras Al Jinz regional director Pierre Abi-Aoun. The centre also offers 'nomadic dining' options, enabling corporate groups and tour operators to request outdoor catering or picnics Sharqiat many of the scenic landscapes of Al Sharqi yah. "Incentive groups can take advantage of our nomadic dining formula, where they can eat inside or on the rocks, in the desert or beside a wadi. No matter where, we will still provide fivestar services," explains Abi-Aoun. Conference facilities are also available onsite for groups of conferenc40 for day meetings, including video conferenc ing, a library and all necessary infrastructures. "We also have team-building instructors and can provide activities in the area, including trips to Sur and Al Hadd," says Abi-Aoun. The ver y founda tions corporate travel sec of the GCC’s travel ind generat or compar tor. The sector ustry are is still by Feathering ed to mee industr built onthe nest ies in the far the tings and the high region) more than 460 different bird species, Oman is one of the With success yet, to dat leisure travel (rel est revenue fully, or rath ativtop e, no trad world's bird-watching destinations. Common species include this lucr e fled gling ative mar er consistently, e w orgospreys, produced sho ket. herons, aniser hasSwift terns, Laughing doves, Egyptian cultures, With a an event that cate travel com gap for a sho Rollers. Qurum Natural Park and Al-Ansab Lagoon are and Indian w catering rs to munity, it has take to the nee renowned bird-watching sites, as are Musandam in the north of the n the bul is no surprise that ds of the l by the corporate Dhofar in the south. In Muscat, various native species andine countrybus horns and Reed Travel Exh travel a ss ibit seen centerp Travel and declare within the landscaped grounds of the InterContinental s (RT iece d its can beion E) ntion to Abu Dha Meetings Exhibit at this year’s Gul inte Al Bustan Palace. and Muscat mak bi Nation ion (GI f Incent e BTM), al Exhibit Diving and Adventure Centre offers bird-watching tours Muscat Busines “The bus which take ive, ion Cen s iness and tre s part of the plac of Hanna and Jens Eriksen, co-authors of the Bird(AD guidance the under e at the corporate NE meetings travel com C) fromwatching March 26-2 year we industr Guide to Oman and world-renowned bird photographers. are mak munity y and has ing bus is an intr 8. been exp the sho iness trav w’s new insic anding Right: Capi Above: GIBT el a key stea tal Gate dilygreat the “With the exhibition man focus at M 2011 , so this outdoors Tower, adjac GIBTM ager Loi UAE wit ent to ADN this yea ,” s groups wanting to leave the boardroom behind corporate small For Hal exp nessing EC r and lains a five per l. in the Mid recording the largest num cent increas and encounter a true Arabian experience, a night under the stars dle Eas e in a must. Nestled in the golden sands of the Wahiba, just outside t and Afr growth traffic in the bus ica region ber of hotel roo is air ms iness trav , we exp has “alw und Wasil, Al erwayDesert Nights Camp is an initiative from the OHI Group ays ect el increasingl been a part of GIB sector.” She add to see eve n Companies. of gre ater s that bus y TM. How in the GC global, meeting iness The travelresort offers 32 bespoke units, including 25 tented accoms and eve ever, with busines C and glob nts held world, fue ally are modation oming units complete with air-conditioning, en-suite bathroom by corpor s bec ling the often org ate com busines anised cosy and pan s travel ies terrace area. The camp has been designed so that all the in other industr parts y”. open out to panoramic vistas across the golden sands. Facilities tents of the include a restaurant, bar and recreational area. 42 / While the beds are made up with the finest cotton, Desert Nights Camp is still a simple lodging option, in keeping with its Bedouin theme. This is not an international five-star hotel in the MEETME desert and therein lies its charm. Accommodation is fully air-con_MARAP R_GIBTM ditioned although there is no spa or swimming pools. .indd 42 Yet who needs manmade facilities when you have the desert before you? Groups can enjoy camel safaris, desert driving in 4X4s, visits to local Bedouin houses, trips in the beautiful Wadi Bani Khalid and souvenir hunting at the local souk. This is authentic Arabia and this authenticity makes it a great location for group incentives.
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Wahiba sands The Wahiba Sands is an area of dunes 100 kilometres wide and 200 kilometres long, running south from the eastern Hajar Mountains to the Arabian Sea. Dunes can tower up to 100 metres tall and their rich mineral content creates a landscape rich in orange, amber, gold and earthy browns. It is estimated that some 3,000 Bedouins have made Wahiba their home and their camps abound. To the west of the Wahiba are the small towns of Rawdah, Samad Ash Shan, Al Akhdar and Lizq. Rawdah and Samad Ash Shan contain ruins and reconstructions of old forts.
nature reserVes The As Saleel Nature Park is located in the Al Kamil and Al Wafi Governorate in the Ash Sharqiyah Province. The nature park covers an area of 220 square kilometres and features an impressive forest of acacia trees. It is home to a number of rare species including the Arabian gazelle, the Omani wild cat, the red fox, the Egyptian eagle and others. Al-Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve is located around 18 kilometres off the coast of Barka and is one of the most impressive marine reserves in the Middle East. Covering an area of 247 acres, the reserve comprises nine islands, each featuring pristine beaches, coral reefs and an abundance of sea life. The islands are also home to a large number of sea turtles that lay their eggs and nest there, as well as migratory and indigenous birds. In 1984, the islands were officially recognised as an international marine and nature reserve. They are also a magnet for divers and snorkellers, with 22 known diving sites. Wadi Sireen Reserve is located in the eastern Al Hajar Mountains about 45 kilometres south of Muscat. The area is home to a large number of native animals including the Arabian Tahr and deer. The Arabian Tahr is indigenous to Oman and is a very rare goat-like creature, with a short body, hooked horns and reddish-brown hair. It is one of the smallest of its species in the world.
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meetings: adnec abu dhabi 2012
Convention Credentials Having recently unveiled its new International Convention Centre, ADNEC is now even better positioned to attract large-scale meeting events serving delegates from around the world
ItÕs more commonly known as the largest exhibition venue in the Middle East, not to mention being among the worldÕs most modern, but, thanks to a landmark upgrade, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) is now developing a reputation as a top spot for large-scale international conventions and association events. This new positioning is due to the addition of the expansive International Convention Centre (ICC) Abu Dhabi, which was unveiled in February 2012. Seating up to 6,000 people in its tired auditorium, which spans 7,920 square metres, the ICC also boasts conference rooms, smaller break-out rooms and additional exhibition space, all supported with catering facilities. The set-up effectively rebrands ADNECÕs Abu Dhabi Hall, which has previously played host to a range of live events including sports occasions and concerts. Those in need of flexibility will be pleased to know that the ICC still boasts all the hi-tech facilities that Abu Dhabi Hall was renowned for, including its fully automated 'tier' seating system. As well as serving the needs of those organising large-scale meetings Ð the opening happened in time for FebruaryÕs World Ophthalmology Congress 2012, the largest congress to be staged in the UAE capital yet Ð ICC plays a vital role in boosting Abu DhabiÕs credentials as a destination for major events, as outlined in the governmentÕs Plan Abu Dhabi 2030.
record-breaking capital gate tower
ÒBuilding on our success to date, we continue to seek out new opportunities and raise Abu DhabiÕs international profile as a destination for major events; the creation of ICC Abu Dhabi is another step in this direction,Ó said HE Ali Saeed Bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, managing director, ADNEC. The move also serves to stress how conventions are now the lifeblood of the events industry, with huge potential for growth, while illustrating the companyÕs clear intention to target this sector. Building relationships with high-profile international associations is expected to form a pivotal part of the strategy, in order for the venue to become the preferred choice for mega-conferences of this kind. ÒProfessional conference organisers recognise and appreciate ICC,Ó said ADNECÕs chief sales and marketing officer, Humaid Al Dhaheri. ÒICC Abu Dhabi adds another string to our bow as we actively promote the emirate internationally as a growing market for association meetings.Ó Having celebrated its fifth anniversary on February 18, only time will tell whether the venueÕs repositioning will attract the kind of attention it desires, although if early indications are anything to go by, the future looks bright.
ADNECÕs key milestones ¥ A record-breaking International Defence Exhibition (idex) and the launch of the co-located NAV-
DEX. IDEX 2011 attracted 1,060 exhibitors and utilised 124,000 square metres of event space at ADNEC. ¥ The completion of the Capital Gate tower, Abu DhabiÕs iconic new leaning tower, which is owned
International Defence Exhibition (idex)
by ADNEC. The tower houses the 189-room, luxury five-star Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi hotel, which opened on December 21, 2011 and 15,000 square metres of office space. ¥ Strong growth of ADNECÕs weddings business. In 2011, the venue hosted close to 100 weddings, representing more than a 500 percent increase compared with 2009. ¥ Opening of the 252-room ADNEC-owned Aloft London ExCel, boosting hotel room capacity at ExCel to 1,400. ¥ Scooping more than 20 global industry awards including ÒInternational Venue of the YearÓ at the Association of Events Organisers Awards. ¥ The purchase and relaunch of ticket website BoxOfficeME.com and a renewed focus on live events.
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THE SLEEK ADNEC CONCOURSE
abu dhabi 2012
OTHER LANDMARK DEVELOPMENTS The ICC isnÕt the only major development from the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company, however. According to its latest annual report, released in January 2012, the company enjoyed record results in 2011, welcoming a huge 733 events to its three venues Ð ADNEC, ExCeL London and the Al Ain Convention Centre Ð representing an increase of 18 percent on 2010. Highlights within this include ADNECÕs 56 percent year-on-year increase as its total number of events jumped from 148 to 231 in 2010. Furthermore, events hosted at ExCeL shot up from 242 in 2010 to 284 in 2011, an increase of 17 percent. ÒThe growing number and scale of the events we host is a clear signal of our ambitions and rising prominence in the events industry,Ó said His Excellency Ali Saeed Bin Harmal Al Dhaheri. ÒIn 2010, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre made great strides towards its goal of becoming the most successful exhibition, conference and events centre in the region. ADNEC is raising the profile of Abu Dhabi internationally and playing a key role in boosting the volume of business tourism to the emirate. The ADNEC team is moving forward and developing the company in line with Abu DhabiÕs strategic 2030 vision.Ó
FUTURE GOALS
HOSTED BUYERS DISCUSS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES AT GIBTM
ADNEC is making great strides towards its goal of becoming the most successful exhibition, conference and events centre in the region and raising Abu Dhabi's profile as a destination for large-scale events
ADNEC'S INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE SEATS UP TO 6,000 PEOPLE
On top of the variety of leading events which took place in the first quarter of 2012, highlights in the diary this year include the Gulf Incentive Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM), while Abu DhabiÕs second largest congress, the 18th World Route Development Forum, will take place in autumn. November sees the UFI Annual Congress Ð marking the first time this key exhibition industry event will be held in the Arabian Gulf Ð and ADIPEC, the largest oil and gas show outside of North America. The 2012 edition of ADIPEC will mark the 15th successive edition and encompasses quayside exhibition space at ADNECÕs purposebuilt marina. Looking to London, a prominent fixture for ExCeL is the seven Olympic events (240 medals) and six Paralympic events (222 medals) which will be staged there as part of the London 2012 games this summer.
ICC at a glance The new facilities offered by ADNECÕs ICC: ¥ A fully flexible, tiered auditorium seating up to 6,000 people. The 7,920-square- metre space is also able to host a range of meetings and events ¥ Two additional large conference rooms ¥ 19 smaller break-out rooms ¥ Additional exhibition space stretching 65,080 square metres ¥ Catering facilities Note: There are over 2,400 hotel rooms available on-site or within five minutesÕ drive of the venue. An additional 700-plus rooms are expected to be added to the on-site hotel stock by the end of 2012
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30 April - 3 May 2012 6-9 May 2013
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an artist's impression of saadiyat island's cultural district
FORWARD THINKING Abu Dhabi’s blueprint for its evolution into a leading destination for culture and tourism is coming on apace. The city’s transformation is evident at every turn with further developments set to leap from the drawing board into reality The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council's Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 for urban structure, originally launched in 2007, is an ambitious longterm vision with a strategy to identify and respond to the city's future development needs. Through 10 policy statements, the plan specifies land uses, building heights and transportation developments for the metropolitan area of Abu Dhabi. Under the plan, the city is projected to grow from around two million people to over three million by 2030. In order to become the leading tourism and cultural hub it desires to be, the emirate has to plan for both expansion into the outlying areas beyond the main city centre Ð and up into the Western Region Ð as well as concentrating on its wealth of natural offshore islands.
Moving forward The Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority's target of increasing visitor numbers to 2.7 million by the end of 2012 is reflected in the impressive number of residential, commercial, tourism and retail projects under development across the emirate. To meet visitor accommodation targets, current hotel stock is increasing by a staggering 13,000 rooms to a total of 25,000. Islands such as Saadiyat and Yas are home to many of these new projects, part of bigger mixed-use community destinations.
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infrastructure:what’s new abu dhabi 2012
As part of the authority's sub-plan for the region, covering 2008 to 2012, six priorities were initially defined: sector standardisation; tourism experience enhancement; improved transport and visa processing; increased international marketing; further product development; and preservation of the emirate's culture, values and traditions.
Yas Island Totalling 25 square kilometres and boasting state-of-the-art sports and leisure facilities, Yas Island has to be seen to be believed. In addition to the sprawling Yas Marina with its own yacht club, Yas Marina Circuit and the Yas Arena and Yas Forum, the island also houses the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park (complete with the world's fastest rollercoaster), go-karts, a driving school and Links golf course, together with a soon-to-becompleted shopping mall and a waterpark about to open. The Yas Mall is due to open this year and will cover 235,000 square metres, housing 5 00 shops over three floors. The Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi is due for completion late 2012 to early 2013. Developed by Aldar Properties, the water-park tells the story of Dana, a young Emirati girl in search of an exquisite pearl, a depiction of which is a park centrepiece. The park is situated next to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and will provide thrill-seekers with 40 rides, slides and attractions over 21,000 square metres with restaurants and shops. All developments are set to complement the seven hotels across the island.
Al Raha Beach Aldar Properties' Al Raha Beach development will be home to 120,000 residents when complete and is situated on the waterfront side of the main highway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, 30 minutes from the city centre. Stretching more than five square kilometres and costing an estimated AED54 billion (US$14.7 billion) the construction will incorporate 11 precincts with hotels, marinas, parks, restaurants and leisure facilities. Each precinct will come online individually with the whole development scheduled to finish in 2018. One of the precincts will be a central business district Ð Al Dana Ð along with extensive upscale residential and hospitality options. Al Bandar, a precinct built around a 150-berth marina with 511 units, was handed over by developers in September 2010.
the aldar headquarters building makes a striking addition to the skyline
Central Market Located on the site of the old open-air souk in the heart of the city is the US$708 million Central Market development by Aldar Properties. Its construction encompasses three skyscrapers integrated with more low-level designs of a souk, landscaped open spaces, a mosque, a plaza and an emporium of signature stores. Central Market, which is opening in phases, reflects the style of a traditional Islamic bazaar with a modern twist. Visitors will find a range of upmarket retail stores, restaurants, a nightclub, a cinema, the souk, a 59-storey office tower, hotels and outdoor water features.
yas island's hotly anticipated water park and shopping mall are set to open later this year and in 2013, respectively
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The Reem Mall will be a complete shopping, entertainment, leisure and relaxation hub
a conceptual drawing of sowwah island
Al Gurm
Al Bateen Wharf
Airport expansion
On the main Abu Dhabi island, Aldar Properties' eco-friendly Al Gurm waterfront resort will be set among mangrove trees on the western edge of the city. The resort already comprises 73 private luxury homes situated around a lagoon completed as phase one of the project and there's a 161-suite plan of expansion for the five-star resort in the future. Al Gurm is being promoted as an exclusive tropical island retreat covering 1.8 million square metres. The resort developer has promised to stipulate a 'wildlife first' policy across the site, where all properties are low-rise so that no wildlife or flora is disturbed. All suites will have their own private pools and boat jetties and some will have private beaches, connected either by a series of boardwalks or guests can convey themselves by small boat.
The Al Bateen district is the oldest occupied district in the UAE capital and is being redeveloped at a cost of US$435 million to include a signature waterfront destination with a luxury five-star hotel complex. The 54,000-square-metre phased development site will be known as the Al Bateen Wharf and will include a San Francisco-style Fishermen's Marina and Al Bateen Wharf Hotel. The completion date for the whole project is expected to be 2013.
A phased US$6.8 billion redevelopment of Abu Dhabi International Airport is under way, with the much-anticipated Midfield Terminal set to open in the next few years. Once built, the terminal will increase the airport's capacity to 20 million passengers per year. A dedicated Etihad Airways terminal was added in 2009, while further developments, including a new 109-metre, 20-storey air traffic control tower, will eventually boost the hub's annual capacity to 40 million travellers.
Capital showcase A more business-orientated, but pivotal, development is centred around the phased construction of the Capital Centre project, which has the state-of-the-art Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) at its heart. ADNEC is designed to boost the capital's ability to host major exhibitions and conferences, as well as act as a spur to attract more visitors to Abu Dhabi. The Capital Centre development is already home to the Aloft Abu Dhabi and Hyatt Capital Gate hotels as well as the iconic Capital Gate tower. The entire development will eventually house 23 towers comprising hotels, residences and offices, complemented by a marina, grandstand and galleria.
Abu Dhabi's leaning tower, capital gate, is iconic and avant-garde
Abu Dhabi Golf Resort An extension of the Abu Dhabi Golf Club (home to the annual Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship), the Abu Dhabi Golf Resort now includes an updated clubhouse and the new five-star, 172-room Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa. Meeting facilities for up to 400 people, a ballroom, conference and boardroom and a business centre are now planned, along with a gated residential community.
Hotel developments A swathe of new hotel developments is planned for the emirate. Among them is The Regent Emirates Pearl (a resort with a hotel and serviced apartments opposite the iconic Emirates Palace) and the Grand Corniche Hotel, a downtown landmark designed to cater to the emirate's business and leisure travellers, located on the Corniche. The Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche opened in March while the luxurious St. Regis Abu Dhabi will open in August. Next to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, developers are constructing The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal Ă?
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infrastructure: what’s new abu dhabi 2012
an Italian-themed resort over 220,000 square metres, with 395 rooms, a signature swimming pool and landscaped gardens. The Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi on Sowwah Island is scheduled to open in 2013 and is seen as a key element at Sowwah Island's integrated business district masterplan. The hotel will offer 200 deluxe rooms and 125 residences. Also opening on Sowwah Island in 2013 is the Rosewood Abu Dhabi, a five-star high-rise hotel offering 190 rooms and suites in a modern reflective-glass building. Due to open in June this year is the Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa, Abu Dhabi, by Anantara. Set on the waterfront infront of the mangroves, the 200-room hotel forms part of an integrated hotel, marina, retail and residential destination.
THE FISHERMEN'S MARINA AT AL BATEEN WHARF
AL REEM ISLAND Al Reem Island, which translates as the 'island of the gazelle', is a mere 300 metres to the east of Abu Dhabi island and will be residential and business driven. Three major developments Ð Shams Abu Dhabi, Najmat Abu Dhabi and Marina Square, built by Sorouh, Reem Investments and Tamouh respectively Ð are springing up here. These districts will together house an estimated 200,000 people. Within the Najmat Abu Dhabi development will be The Reem Mall, comprising 700 outlets. Preliminary work will soon start on a metro-tram system and increased infrastructure spend is set to speed up development on the island.
The Al Bateen district is being redeveloped to include a signature waterfront destination. The development site will be known as the Al Bateen Wharf and will include a Fishermen’s Marina and Al Bateen Wharf Hotel
An estimated US$22 billion budget has been allocated for the ambitious Masdar City development, which is currently under way close to Abu Dhabi airport. When completed in 2016, Masdar City will be one of the world's most sustainable cities, powered by renewable energy. The 'green' development will include a university, commercial, residential and eco-friendly industrial areas.
producing 850 kilowatts per hour. A joint project between TDIC and the Abu Dhabi future energy company, Masdar, the wind turbine is key in the emirate's plan to create a green environment on the island. Eight islands in total will offer resort accommodation and form a nature sanctuary unique to the Gulf region known as Desert Islands, developed by TDIC. Desert Islands is expected to generate US$326 million in tourism revenues when fully operational by 2020. The remaining elements of the Desert Islands projects are Dalma Island, rich in history and archaeological finds; and Discovery Islands, which comprise six islands abundant in marine life.
DESERT ISLANDS
SOWWAH ISLAND
Off the western coastline of Abu Dhabi's Al Gharbia region (also known as the Western Region) is a cluster of islands, which provides the setting for an extraordinary tourist spot. Sir Bani Yas, the first of the islands to open to the public, is the former nature reserve of HH Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan (the first president of the UAE). Sir Bani Yas is also the site of the Middle East's largest wind turbine
The creation of the Sowwah Island central business district was one of the foundation stones of Abu Dhabi Plan 2030. It will house mainly the financial sector and businesses are already moving in to Sowwah Square offices. A Four Seasons and a Rosewood hotel are also under development. A 33,000-square-metre shopping centre called The Galleria is also due to open this year on the waterfront.
MASDAR CITY
AL GURM IS AN ECO-FRIENDLY WATERFRONT RESORT
THE SOUK AT CENTRAL MARKET
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late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the former UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. The Sheikh Zayed National Museum will feature galleries individually devoted to UAE heritage, the environment, transformation of the emirates, unity through leadership and education. The museum will also include an education centre, theatre, shops, caf and visitor services area. Current estimates for completion are during 2016.
Performing Arts Centre the performing arts centre will cover a huge 62,700 square metres
Saadiyat Island The transformation of Saadiyat Island, which means 'island of happiness', into a cultural hub is one of the biggest undertakings being overseen by the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), the asset development and management arm of the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority. The US$25 billion undertaking is being developed as a world-class tourism, cultural and residential destination. At 27 square kilometres, Saadiyat is half the size of the tropical island of Bermuda and lies 500 metres off the UAE capital's north coast. The island will have beaches, two golf courses (one of which, the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, is already operational), nine hotels, marinas, villas and apartments and is scheduled for completion by 2018. In a major coup, the island's Cultural District will house the first ever Louvre museum outside Paris (due to be completed in 2015) as well as a Guggenheim Museum (to open in 2017) and the Sheikh Zayed National Museum (currently scheduled for 2016). Details of two other cultural sites Ð a performing arts centre and a maritime museum Ð have yet to be released. The island, which has a 30-kilometre water frontage, is being developed into seven distinct districts: the Cultural District, Saadiyat Beach, South Beach, The Wetland, Island Lagoons, Al Marina and Eco-Point. The overall development of the island will be phased over 15 years.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Frank Gehry's concept for the 450,000square-foot Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is designed to accommodate approximately 40,000 square metres of exhibition space. It will feature permanent collections, galleries
for special exhibitions, a centre for art and technology, a children's art education facility, archives, a library and research centre and a state-of-the-art conservation laboratory. Four storeys of central core galleries are laid out around a courtyard, with two more rings of galleries spanning out from the core. The third ring is for larger galleries with exposed lighting and special systems. The Guggenheim is slated to open in 2017.
Louvre Abu Dhabi The acquisition of the brand name Louvre for Abu Dhabi was a result of some high-level diplomatic negotiations between the Abu Dhabi and French governments: the parties have struck an unprecedented 30-year cultural accord, which provides for long-term loans from the Louvre and other major museums in France. French museums will contribute their expertise and assistance to acquire an Abu Dhabi art collection during the next decade and help organise educational programmes and art conferences in the UAE capital. The Louvre Abu Dhabi will exhibit archaeological works and art from all periods, but mainly classical pieces. The Louvre will host a floor of galleries dedicated to the late UAE President, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, when it opens in 2015.
Designed by Zaha Hadid, the 62-metrehigh building will feature five theatres, a music hall, concert hall, opera house, drama theatre and a flexible theatre with a combined seating capacity for 6,300 Ð that's 1,100 more than London's Royal Albert Hall. The concert hall sits above the lower four theatres, allowing daylight into its interior and allowing for dramatic views of the sea and city skyline. All of the performance areas will face westwards towards the water. The Performing Arts Area will stretch from the Maritime Museum to the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
Maritime Museum The Maritime Museum, designed by Japan's Tadao Ando, takes its inspiration from Abu Dhabi's natural surroundings, landscape and maritime traditions. Its ship-like interior will have floating decks, which will guide visitors through the exhibition space. Dhows, with their triangular lateen sails, will float over the voids of the interior space and there will also be an enormous underground aquarium. guggenheim abu dhabi
Sheikh Zayed National Museum Foster + Partners Ltd, one of the UK's leading architectural firms, won the tender to design the Sheikh Zayed National Museum after an international competition process that took seven months to award the contract. The museum will honour the legacy of the
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ON AND OFF THE GREENS With luxurious facilities and lush greenways, Abu Dhabi’s world-class golf courses are high on the list of options for visitors whether you are an expert or novice
yas links is one of the emirate's top courses
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leisure: golf abu dhabi 2012
Earning its place on the world golfing stage by successfully hosting the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship for six years, Abu Dhabi staged its seventh annual tournament, part of the European PGA Tour, in January 2012, experiencing record attendance figures this year. The championship has attracted some of the top names in the game and with more exciting and picturesque new courses in the pipeline, choosing where to swing your club is far from easy. The emirate also offers the unique opportunity of playing on browns (sand courses) as well as greens. Coupled with the top-notch facilities at each course, including quality pro shops and dedicated coaching facilities with PGAqualified professionals, Abu Dhabi offers excellent incentive options for visitors.
crowds enjoy the abu dhabi HSBC golf championship
Abu Dhabi Golf Club
an aerial view of abu dhabi golf club
Managed by world-renowned Troon Golf, Abu Dhabi Golf Club is located 15 minutes from the city centre 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, an ideal tee-off venue for those on short business trips, in transit, or for groups on a one-day incentive trip to the emirate. Designed by renowned golf-course architect Peter Harradine, the club features one of the finest 27-hole championship golfing facilities in the region. Practice facilities include a 70,000-square-metre floodlit driving range and putting and chipping greens to enhance the short game. The latest V1 pro-swing analysis training system, as well as a state-ofthe-art fitting system and an Explanar training aid are also available. The 27-hole national championship course features palms trees and shrubs, as well as nine spectacular lakes. Overlooking the golf course is the stunning clubhouse, built in the shape of a falcon. As well as a Mediterranean restaurant, a sushi bar and a fine-dining restaurant, the clubhouse boasts an executive meeting room and extensive sports and fitness club.
Abu Dhabi City Golf Club Abu Dhabi City Golf Club is located in the Mushrif area, in the heart of Abu Dhabi. The nine-hole, par-70 floodlit course is set in the middle of a racetrack, offering golfers a novel set of challenges. There are several attractive water features spread around the course and, despite having only nine holes, there is a set of alternate tees for the back nine, providing an entirely unique playing experience. The par-70 course offers an interesting game for players of all levels. The Golf Academy includes the UAEﾃ不 first two-tiered driving range with a specially designed long- and short-game area. Other facilities on the premises include three floodlit tennis courts, a gym, swimming pool and a pro shop. The clubhouse has a semiformal atmosphere and houses the 19th Street Restaurant & Bar and a large banqueting area. Nearby facilities include an international racecourse, a spectacular show-jumping area and riding school located on the premises adjacent to the course.
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THE 18-HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE AT THE AL AIN EQUESTRIAN, SHOOTING & GOLF CLUB
SAND GOLF AT AL GHAZAL GOLF CLUB
Meetings facilities
There is not a blade of grass on the entire course and caddies constantly check yardages for burrows wdug by wdhubs, the local desert lizard AL GHAZAL GOLF CLUB Al Ghazal Golf Club is an 18-hole, 6,711-yard, par-71 sand golf course situated just 400 metres from the Abu Dhabi International Airport. It is ideal for transit passengers who can benefit from free transit visas and complimentary transportation arranged by the club. The course is entirely sand instead of a more traditional grass surface, with separate grass and sand chipping areas, putting greens and a grass driving range. The front nine holes (par 35) are based around an ancient archaeological site, while the back nine holes (par 36) have been constructed on flatter reclaimed land. There is not a blade of grass on the entire course and caddies constantly check yardages for burrows dug by dhubs, the local desert lizards. The reward for hitting the fairway, which is defined by a line of wooden stakes, is the privilege of hitting the next shot off a piece of portable Astroturf. Al Ghazal Golf Academy features some of the most advanced and innovative golf-teaching technology in the world, making
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it both enjoyable and effective. Apart from PGA-qualified instructors, the academy has a Royle Golf Visual Communication System, which allows swings to be professionally assessed on monitors. These in turn allow the overlay of graphics, enabling students to compare their swings with those of some of the gameﾃ不 greatest players. The academy also has Durnian Frames, the specially designed metal frames through which golfers can perfect their swing plane by following the lines of the frame. The luxurious English-style clubhouse situated on top of a gentle hill offers great views of the course and the city. Featuring a large terrace with room for up to 200 guests, the club is a popular venue with golfers and non-golfers alike, with its fully licensed bar, restaurant, swimming pool and tennis courts. There is also a health club with a gym, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room on the premises and a pro shop offering a good selection of competitively priced golf-wear and equipment.
Abu Dhabi Golf Club Offers five state-of-theart meeting rooms: the Saqrstyle rooms have natural light and overlook fairways 1, 2, 3 and 4; and the Shaheen rooms offer meeting spaces for up to 15 delegates. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club Offers facilities designed to provide a variety of seating plans from eight in a meeting up to 100 for dinner in top-class luxury with the latest in audiovisual technology. PRACTICE GOLF IN AL AIN
AL AIN Al Ain, in eastern Abu Dhabi, also offers golf courses, namely the Al Ain Golf Club, Hilton Al Ain Golf Club and the Al Ain Equestrian shooting & Golf Club, which also includes a rugby club, tennis courts and equestrian club. Al Ainﾃ不 golf clubs may not be quite up to the standard of those closer to the capital, but still afford a good round, made all the more comfortable by Al Ainﾃ不 yearround cooler climate. With no shortage of innovative and breathtaking courses, the challenge to visiting golfers will be the number of rounds they can fit it during their stay in Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi City Golf Club Offers indoor facilities for up to 300 guests and outdoor terraces and lawns for 2,000 with ample car parking and Clubhouse catering facilities. Al Ghazal Golf Club Offers banqueting, conference and event services with tailormade menus, a professional event service and guest transportation. Yas Links Offers state-of-the-art meetings and conference facilities complemented by a network of top hotels nearby. All meeting rooms overlook the course and the coastline.
leisure: golf abu dhabi 2012
Yas Links
Saadiyat Beach Golf Club FEATURES SEVERAL BEACHFRONT HOLES
Golf clubs in Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi City Golf Club 9-hole, 6,395-yard, par-70 Facilities: golf academy, floodlit driving range, clubhouse with bar and restaurant, pro shop, floodlit tennis courts and swimming pool Tel: +971 2 445 9600 Abu Dhabi Golf Club 27-hole, 7,334-yard, par-72 Facilities: 9-hole putting green, chipping greens, practice bunkers, 17-acre floodlit driving range, golf institute, clubhouse with bars, restaurants, pro shop, spa as well as a health and fitness club, swimming pool and two squash courts Tel: +971 2 558 8990 Al Ghazal Golf Club (sand course) 18-hole, 6,711-yard, par-71 Facilities: golf academy, Durnian frames, Royle golf visual communication system, pro shop, club repair and fitting centre, bar and restaurant, snooker room, swimming pool and tennis courts Tel: +971 2 575 8041 Saadiyat Beach Golf Club 18-hole, 7,784-yard, par-72 Facilities: golf academy, clubhouse with bar and restaurant, beach, golf shop, meeting and banqueting facilities Tel: +971 2 557 8000
Yas Links 18-hole, 7,450-yard, par-72 Facilities: academy course, clubhouse, golf academy, floodlit practice facilities, sports bar, finedining restaurant, pro shop, outdoor pool and croquet lawn Tel: +971 2 810 7777 Al Ain Golf Club (sand course) 18-hole, par-3 Facilities: clubhouse, games room, practice putting green, golf coaching, club hire Tel: +971 3 768 6808 Hilton Al Ain Golf Club 9-hole, par-3 Facilities: coaching available, two swimming pools, four tennis courts Tel: +971 3 768 6666 Al Ain, Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club 9-hole, 6,664-yards, par-72 Facilities: golf academy with practice area, floodlit driving range, clubhouse with bars and restaurant and pro shop. The resort also includes a rugby club, floodlit tennis courts, swimming pool, gym and equestrian club with riding/jumping school Tel: +971 3 768 4888
Saadiyat Beach Golf Club The Gary Player-designed Saadiyat Beach Golf Club opened early 2010, becoming Abu Dhabiﾃ不 first beachfront golf course. Managed by Troon Golf, the 18-hole par-72 amphitheatre-style course features several beachfront holes. About one-third of the course commands spectacular views of the Gulfﾃ不 glittering, crystal waters fringed by pristine white sand. The imaginative course routing provides a spectacular variety of golf experiences, with every hole having its own unique character. From the creation of an aquatic habitat, to the introduction of various saltwater lagoons and the restoration of the beach and sand dunes, the course has been designed with strict eco guidelines together with sensitivity to the surrounding natural environment. Shaped in a figure eight, the course is designed so that golfers will not have to play the same hole twice. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club provides world-class amenities and is the only daily pay-and-play facility in the Middle East.
Yas Island is another massive multiuse development featuring a stunning, professionally designed golf course that aspires to become a must-play for the worldﾃ不 golfing aficionados. The Kyle Phillips-designed Links course lies on the west shores of Yas Island, featuring an 18-hole course, a six-hole academy course, a clubhouse, the golf academy and floodlit practice facilities. The Andalucia clubhouse has a variety of locations for guests to relax after playing a round. Thereﾃ不 a sports bar, fine-dining restaurant, male and female locker rooms, a pro shop, an outdoor pool and croquet lawn. The wildlife and sealife in this area are of immense ecological significance and this course is designed to preserve and protect.
yas links GOLF EXPERIENCE
yas links DESIGNED BY KYLE PHILIPS
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THE STRESS TEST Whether you need some help overcoming jetlag or simply deserve a well-earned break from a busy business trip, Abu Dhabi’s numerous spas offer a diverse range of soothing remedies to pamper and revive anantara spa, emirates palace
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leisure: spa abu dhabi 2012
What better way to get both mind and body back on track than to head to one of Abu Dhabi's many luxury spa destinations and enjoy a bespoke session to soothe away stresses and strains? The variety of spa experiences is incredibly diverse, with everything from centuries-old Ayurvedic cures to Chinese massage, as well as new-age holistic treatments. With the majority of spas located within the city's best hotels, qualified therapists and masseurs are on hand to explain, advise and recommend the treatment best suited to your needs, be it a relaxing body massage or on-the-spot therapy for aching muscles.
Anantara Spa
Eden Spa & Health Club
Emirates Palace +971 2 690 9000 The Anantara Spa offers rejuvenating body treatments/therapies in a serene Moroccan-inspired setting featuring seven treatment suites complete with Vichy showers and an exquisite Moroccan hammam facility.
Le M ridien Abu Dhabi +971 2 644 6666 A serene paradise with 10 treatment rooms, two swimming pools and a Turkish hammam, the spa offers more than 40 treatments ranging from Ayurvedic massage to facials.
Anantara Spa
Yas VICEROY +971 2 656 0862 Designed around a traditional hammam there are eight treat Zen the Spa at Rotana ment rooms, including a presidential treatment suite with its own hammam, steam room, fitness equipment and relaxation lounge overlooking Yas Marina. ESPA treatments combine the best of ancient and modern therapies and signature treatments, such as The Marina and the Race Track Remedy.
Qasr Al Sarab DESERT RESORT +971 2 886 2088 Hidden away deep in the desert, this spa and hammam (steam bath) offer treatments to cleanse both body and soul. Talented therapists use ancient elixirs and time-honoured rituals to pamper and refresh. Facilities included Thai-themed flotation and Vichy rooms.
Anantara Spa
Desert Islands Resort & Spa +971 2 801 5281 A peaceful island sanctuary, this spa has four treatment rooms, two for couples and two for individuals. Visitors can choose from an array of natural treatments, as well as personally tailored rituals based on the healing properties of gemstones and precious metals.
Atarmia Spa
Park Hyatt ABU DHABI +971 2 407 1234 Spread over two levels, this luxurious spa allows privacy for both men and women. The day spa offers a range of services together with unique beauty and health treatments, based on ingredients steeped in ArabiaÕs aromatic and opulent history.
Body & Soul Spa
Al Raha Beach Hotel +971 2 5080491 Indulge in total relaxation at the Body & Soul Spa, which offers rejuvenating treatments and relaxing therapies in calm surroundings.
CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri +971 2 509 8988 CHI, with its luxurious private spa suites, is inspired by traditional Asian healing philosophies with treatments based upon the principles of restoring balance and harmony.
Talise spa, Jumeirah at etihad towers
ESPA
Heavenly Spa
Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa +971 2 616 9999 Guests can enjoy signature techniques in one of six treatment rooms at the Heavenly Spa at the Westin, adjacent to the Abu Dhabi Golf Club. Nestled within the lush gardens of the resort, there is a range of treatments available together with massage services to pamper and unwind, including body wraps, caviar masks, paraffin baths and collagen treatments, together with the usual waxing, manicures and pedicures.
Mizan
Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi +971 2 617 0000 Mizan promises you will find stillness and serenity within a space devoted entirely to relaxation, with sophisticated wet rooms and a Vichy shower suite. The spa is a sensorial space offering traditional massages and hammam rituals, plus tailormade individual treatments for each guest.
Rayana Spa
Hyatt Capital Gate +971 2 596 1100 Rayana Spa is perched on the 19th floor overlooking the city. The spa offers Rayana Ritual or la carte treatments within Òa refreshingly elevated oasis experienceÓ with spectacular views of the city from the poolside terrace.
Zen the Spa at Rotana
Beach Rotana abu dhabi +971 2 697 9000 Retreat to Zen the Spa with a treatment menu inspired by holistic Asian philosophies with a contemporary twist. The 10 treatment rooms and two tranquility suites are especially designed for couples' treatments.
Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche +971 2 813 7777 So Spa features five treatment rooms for singles or couples, two hammams with private baths, scrub rooms, deep relaxation rooms, a dry sauna and a steam room.
Talise Spa
Hilton Abu Dhabi +971 2 681 1900 The spa has five spa treatment rooms and two relaxation rooms along with separate steam rooms, a sauna and Jacuzzi. Treatments range from modern western therapies to ancient traditional treatments from the Orient.
Iridium Spa
The Spa
St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort +971 2 498 8888 Treatments at this Saadiyat Island spa are tailored to guestsÕ individual needs. Blending traditional remedies with modern technologies, the treatments can be enjoyed in any of the 12 treatment suites or a themed spa suite with private terraces and pools.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr +971 2 654 3333 Scheduled to open its doors Ôin the middle of 2012Õ according to a hotel representative, the Willow Stream Spa philosophy offers signature treatments to soothe, de-stress and invigorate. Facilities include a Turkish hammam.
So Spa
Jumeirah at Etihad Towers +971 2 811 5555 This luxury spa has 13 treatment suites plus a rasoul chamber and a hammam suite and offers total invigoration of the mind, body and soul in a setting surrounded by pools, gardens and a gym. A range of indulgent signature treatments is available.
Hiltonia Health Club & Spa
Willow Stream Spa
Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island +971 2 656 2000 The perfect oasis for head-to-toe pampering, signature treatments include the Radisson Blu Rose Decadence for a complete nurturing experience. Spa products are courtesy of Anne Semonin and Aromatherapy Associates.
Zen the Spa at Rotana
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CULINARY KUDOS Whether you are planning a long lunch or a snack break, Abu Dhabi is brimming with top-notch restaurants and chic cafés. In a delicious melting pot of both international dishes and Arabic fare, visitors can order up a veritable feast that will rival offerings from any other major city in the world Abu Dhabi is a culinary hotspot when it comes to top-class restaurants and eateries. An amazing collection of mouthwatering specialities is on offer that is sure to entice the palate. Restaurants in Abu Dhabi are often found within luxury hotels where surroundings can be ultra-modern and chic for a contemporary dining experience or within a more traditional, authentically themed setting. Either way, dining in Abu Dhabi is a feast for the eyes too. With top chefs creating both traditional and innovative dishes, visitors can sample food from a different continent at every opportunity. Casual bars and caf s sit along beautiful waterfronts offering everything from seafood to grills and tapas, while Michelinstar restaurants provide superb la carte cuisine in five-star style.
dining by design at qasr al sarab desert resort & spa by anantara
for authentic arabic fare head to atayeB, yas viceroy
UNIQUE SPOTS
AUTHENTIC ARABIC
18˚
Agadir
Hyatt Capital Gate +971 2 5961234 Take in superb views of the city and the Gulf from the 18th floor of Abu DhabiÕs Òleaning tower".
Al Fanar
Atayeb
Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi +971 2 695 0539 Combine European cuisine with amazing views of the Abu Dhabi landscape while dining at the city's only revolving restaurant.
Yas Viceroy +971 2 656 0600 Sample dishes from the bordering regions of the Mediterranean and across the Arabian Gulf.
Dining by Design
Barouk
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort & Spa by Anantara +971 2 886 2088 Enjoy a customised dinner set amid the sand dunes or even on a private terrace while watching the sunset.
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island +971 2 656 3053 Offers Lebanese food with a bellydancing show, oud performance and shisha terrace.
Samak
Marrakesh
Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara +971 2 801 5400 Feast on fresh seafood prepared on an open grill at this beachfront restaurant on a desert island.
Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi +971 2 626 2700 Moroccan restaurant themed around the famous city, with bellydancing performances.
Shuja Yacht
Mezlai
Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi +971 2 695 0539 Cruise along the Arabian Gulf in the UAE capital's only floating, water-based restaurant.
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Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa +971 2 616 9999 An entirely Moroccan team ensure an genuine experience, with traditional tangines, chargrilled meats and more.
Emirates Palace +971 2 690 9000 Abu Dhabi's only five-star Emirati restaurant, serving gourmet dishes prepared by an Emirati chef.
leisure: dining abu dhabi 2012
LONG LUNCH
AFTER DINNER
Azur
Belgian Café
Al Raha Beach Hotel + 971 2 508 0555 Intrinsically Mediterranean, Azur is an Abu Dhabi restaurant that showcases a blend of art and cuisine. Savour creative daily specialties as well as tailormade menus. Dine al fresco and enjoy breathtaking views of the manicured garden and pool, or in the relaxed and intimate dining room.
Beach House
InterContinental Abu Dhabi +971 2 666 6888 Enjoy European cuisine and a fine selection of beverages in this welcoming caf and bar.
Jazz Bar
Hilton Abu Dhabi +971 2 681 1900 A hotspot for contemporary and classic jazz with a six-piece band.
Ray’s Bar
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi +971 2 407 1234 Wile away the hours at this fabulous beachfront restaurant on Saadiyat Island.
Jumeirah at Etihad Towers +971 2 811 5555 Set high on the 62nd floor, this is the place for creative beverages and unbeatable views.
Filini
Relax @ 12
Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island +971 2 656 2000 Take a seat on the terrace and enjoy Italian dishes and views of Yas Links golf course and the sea.
Finz
Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi +971 2 644 3000 Lofty ceilings and long glass windows offer great views over the beach and sea.
Aloft Abu Dhabi +971 2 654 5000 Offers one of the best views in Abu Dhabi, with regular promotions and tasty bar snacks.
Skylite
Yas Viceroy +971 2 656 0600 Enjoy entertainment by a DJ while snacking on tapas under the changing lights of the hotelÕs iconic grid shell.
La Mer Seafood
relax @ 12, Aloft abu dhabi
HOT TABLES
COFFEE CHIC
55&5th
Le Café
Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche +971 2 812 7777 Enjoy fresh local fish and seafood with views across the Arabian Sea.
St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort +971 2 498 8888 This signature grill and lounge is a classic with an exclusive cellar, jazz music, cigars and bespoke service.
Le Deck
Amador Restaurant & Cellar PARK ROTANA ABU DHABI +971 2 657 3333 Tickle your tastebuds with avantgarde cuisine in a restaurant by a chef with three Michelin stars.
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri +971 2 509 8555 Opulent setting with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the waterfront and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Bord Eau
The Chocolate Gallery
Monte Carlo Beach Club +971 2 656 3500 Eclectic Mediterranean cuisines, with a focus on fish and seafood, with views of the stunning Saadiyat Island beachfront.
55&5th, St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
hakkasan, Emirates Palace
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri +971 2 509 8555 This venue serves up some typically European and tasty modern French cuisine in a chic space draped in opulent fabrics with views of the beautiful Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Emirates Palace +971 2 690 9000 Feast on afternoon tea fit for royalty and decorated in edible gold.
Lobby Lounge
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr +971 2 654 3000 Perfect for chocolate lovers and anyone with a weakness for delicious desserts. The Chocolate GAllery, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
Hakkasan
Emirates Palace +971 2 690 9000 Ultra-trendy Chinese restaurant from a Michelin-star stable.
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr +971 2 654 3000 Dramatic interior design and a menu by three-star Michelin chef Marco Pierre White.
Quest
Jumeirah at Etihad Towers +971 2 811 5555 This 63rd-floor restaurant serves exceptional pan-Asian cuisine with stunning views to match.
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leisure: shopping abu dhabi 2012
SHOP TALK From the hustle and bustle of Arabian souks to sprawling glitzy malls with hundreds of high-end boutiques and entertainment facilities, Abu Dhabi is a retail haven boasting big brands and traditional treasures
Whether you are looking to bag a beautiful gift or spend on a simple souvenir, the UAE capital offers a multitude of ideas for that little bit of retail therapy. With ample opportunities to flash the cash or pass the plastic, Abu Dhabi is a tax-free haven that boasts a charming choice of traditional souks and modern malls for the enthusiastic shopper. When searching for the modern shopping experience and if you want to start at the top, by far the biggest centre is the Dalma Mall, which boasts a delightfully exhausting 480 shops, covering speciality retail stores, restaurants and entertainment. Abu Dhabi Mall is another popular spot, with more than 220 retail outlets, including some of the world's best-known brands and a range of entertainment options. For a more intimate shopping experience in cosy surroundings, Al Raha Mall offers an array of fashion outlets, a cinema and a food court. The mall is conveniently located near Abu Dhabi International Airport and Yas Island. A retail haven with a waterfront setting can be found at Marina Mall, with more than 300 stores (including the best selection of designer brands), a 100-metre-high viewing platform and ice-skating rink. Other options include Al Wahda Mall, which features 150 outlets selling fashion brands, jewellery, beauty products and entertainment; Fotouh Al Khair Centre, home to favourites
The open-air souks have much to offer: Oriental spices; vibrantly coloured fabrics; prized Persian rugs; traditional jewellery; and more, combining old-world charm with modern-day sophistication
open-air souks have much to offer, including a huge variety of spices
such as Marks & Spencer, Nine West, DKNY and the Watch House; and Khalidiya Mall, a three-floor retail centre with distinctive Islamic architecture and shops selling everything from fashion to furnishings. Due to open around April/May this year, with two floors dedicated to luxury brands, Etihad Towers will house haute couture and boutique shopping at its best. Situated along the exclusive beachside of Al Ras Al Akhdar, Etihad Towers, retail area covers 7,000 square metres. Some 40 high-ends brands will include Cartier, Herm s, Versace, Bulgari, Rolex, Piaget, Van Cleef & Arpels and Burberry. The Collection, a retail area within the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, will cater to both visitors to the island and residents of the St. Regis villas and apartments. Located on Saadiyat Ð one of Abu Dhabi's most sought-after addresses Ð The Collection will feature a variety of high-end retail shops and dining outlets as it opens in phases during 2012.
Souk stroll Away from the modern, glitzy malls, there are various traditional markets (souks) to amble through for a more local and authentic shopping experience. A souk consists of numerous small stores or stalls which sell a wide range of goods Ð both necessities and luxuries. The open-air souks have much to offer: Oriental spices; vibrantly coloured fabrics; prized Persian rugs; traditional designs in jewellery; and more. Combining old-world charm with modern-day sophistication, the souks are a reflection of Abu Dhabi's past when, traditionally, bargaining was the order of the day. Historically, the souks were considered important meeting places as much as they were trading centres. The early markets were rambling sandy alleys crammed with stalls and tea or coffee houses where people gathered to discuss the day's events over a shisha (hubbly bubbly) pipe, a cup of sweetened tea or gahwa, the famed Arabic coffee.
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Some still have small coffee or tea shops located on or off the main thoroughfares and visitors can expect to be offered a complimentary cup or two from friendly stallholders as a precursor to some intense bargaining. In days gone by, it may well have been possible to buy just about anything from a bag of salt or a camel, to incense for the home or gold for a wedding. However, the newer souks often specialise in different products, thus creating individual markets such as the fish souk, a fruit and vegetable souk, Afghan souk and gold souk. On the site of an old market that has been a trading point for the past 40 years, a new Central Market now stands. The redevelopment project offers a sophisticated combination of traditional charm and modern architecture dominating the downtown neighbourhood with an integrated mix of up-market retail, business, residential and leisure facilities that covers 490,000 square metres and accommodates 5,000 parking spaces. The colourful, open-air Iranian Souk in the Al Mina area features goods imported by dhow from Iran, including exotic bedspreads, carpets and hand-painted pottery. The Al Meena Souk, also known as the Afghan Souk, is a great
place to look for Oriental carpets and rugs. Shoppers searching for a touch of class should head to The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri. Located between Maqtaa and Mussafah bridges, the Arabian-themed souk, offers high-end shopping and dining. Great buys at Abu Dhabi's souks include traditional silver and brass coffee pots, carpets from Iran, India or Pakistan, incense and oudh, the local perfume oil. Souks are also a great place to search for lesserknown brands of electronics and perfumes, as well as an assortment of electrical goods, home appliances and accessories for cars, computers and mobile phones. Prices are generally competitive. The trick to shopping wisely is to bargain forcefully, starting with the lowest possible price you are willing to offer Ă? and unlikely to pay Ă? but working up to a point where you feel that you have made a real bargain. In most souks, bargaining is expected and part of the charming sales process. Gold, electronic goods, textiles and carpets are usually the best value for money, while other great bargains are traditional handicrafts in the form of hand-woven baskets, mats, camel blankets, crafted metal artefacts and jewellery.
In most souks, bargaining is expected and part of the charming sales process. Gold, electronic goods, textiles and carpets are usually the best value for money find trinkets to treasure in the souks
put your bargaining skills to the test
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liwa DATE FESTIVAL
Handicraft Heritage Village is another must-see destination for traditional Emirati handicrafts. Run by the Emirates Heritage Club, Heritage Village features reconstructions of Bedouin tents, old fishing villages and traditional markets. Located on the breakwater opposite the Abu Dhabi Corniche, it also sells a wide variety of local handicrafts.
duty-free purchases While visiting Abu Dhabi, a bit of foresight could prove to be very rewarding as a treasure trove of shopping opportunities await at Abu Dhabi Duty Free (ADDF). The uniquely designed structure, with its futuristic centrepiece in the form of a mushroom rising up from the floor to the ceiling in changing colours of blue and green, is quite unlike any other duty-free complex in the world. Abu Dhabi Duty Free pioneered the shopin-shop concept with branded corners for various prestigious international brands displaying their corporate identities. Several top brand names in fashion, fragrance, cosmetics, confectionery and more create a lavish look and feel to the retail area. Popular goods sold at ADDF include gold and electronic items, local antiques and souvenirs. Small purchases are equally well covered, with books or necessities such as pharmaceuticals and toiletries all displayed in a spectacular setting. A large area of airside retail space concentrates on the sale of beverages and tobacco as well as food and chocolate. Other areas include beauty products and fragrances and a selection of watches, gifts and gold. Top brands in all categories are represented.
leisure: shopping abu dhabi 2012
Al Ain additions Bawadi Mall, which opened in April 2009, is one of Al Ain's top retail havens. Located only five minutes from the town centre on Mezyad Road, Bawadi Mall offers a variety of international and regional retail fashion brands, food, jewellery and much more, spread over 400 shops, all in a bright, spacious and inviting environment. The 10,000-square-metre family entertainment centre offers unique experiences to all family members. Eight movie theatres, a 16-lane bowling alley, food court and many more casual dining alternatives make up Bawadi's retail offering. Al Ain Mall features anchor stores such as Home Centre, Grand Stores and Paris Gallery. The family entertainment area includes a 12-lane bowling alley and a multi-screen cinema, as well as an indoor ice-skating rink. The popular Al Jimi Mall attracts more than six million visitors a year and opened its east wing expansion in early 2006 offering an additional 27,000 square metres of retail space with premium-brand fashion, cosmetics, jewellery and perfumeries, together with attractive terrace caf s and restaurants. The mall was built on the site of the old vegetable and meat market. The Al Ain Souk,with its authentic ambience without any modern trappings, sells a mixture of household goods, as well as market produce and is a great place to explore.
Bawadi Mall
invest in some madeto-measure outfits
Abu Dhabi malls Abu Dhabi Mall +971 2 6454858 With more than 200 retail outlets and seen as one of the main attractions on the Abu Dhabi shopping scene, take your pick from Aldo, Carolina Herrera, Damas, La Senza, Levi's, Mango, Massimo Dutti, Pull & Bear, Raymond Weil and Virgin Megastore, to name just a few.
Marina Mall +971 2 6818300 A retail haven with a waterfront setting, Marina Mall is home to more than 300 stores, which cater to individuals of all ages. Some of the stores featured in this mammoth mall include Mont Blanc, Promod, Forever 21, Rolex, Springfield, Stradivarius, Tiffany & Co., Timberland and Zara.
Al Jimi Mall, Al Ain +971 3 7638883 There are more than 110 shops to choose from offering a variety of products from fashion and jewellery to health and beauty.
Khalidiyah Mall +971 2 6354000 The vast Khalidiyah Mall offers visitors a good mixture of stores as well as a cinema and bowling alley.
Fotouh Al Khair Centre +971 2 6393084 Home to the world's favourite brands, including Marks & Spencer, Adams, Monsoon, Nine West, Pumpkin Patch, Origem and the Watch House, this is a favourite family venue.
Al Ain Mall, Al Ain +971 3 7660333 Offers more than 100,000 square metres of retail and entertainment space spread over three floors. Some of the leading stores include Grand Stores, Motivi, Nine West, Salam Studio & Stores, Next and Paris Gallery.
The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri +971 2 5581670 Located next to the Shangri-La Hotel between Maqtaa and Mussafah bridges, the Arabian-themed souk is a classy retail venue complete with Venetian-style canals.
Al Wahda Mall +971 2 4437000 Al Wahda Mall opened in 2007 and has brands such as Boots, Gap and Mothercare. Open at 10am each day, it is the first shopping centre in Abu Dhabi to open on Friday mornings.
Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre & Gold Centre +971 2 6318555 The 400 outlets sell just about everything and the Gold Centre is located adjacent to the main mall.
Bawadi Mall, Al Ain +971 3 7840000 The 400 shops, eight movie theatres, 16-lane bowling alley and a family entertainment centre make Bawadi Mall a complete full-day experience.
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Leading the way Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi is a luxury hotel like no other and a world-class destination for spectacular events
Built as an iconic landmark showcasing Arabian culture and hospitality at its finest, Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, managed by Kempinski, has created an enviable niche in luxury hospitality, welcoming royalty, world leaders, celebrities, global business travellers and leisure guests with a truly memorable and unique experience. The majestic hotel is the pioneer and one of the most recognised partners in the conferencing and incentives world. Those in the meetings industry recognises the extraordinary attention to detail and appreciates the advanced facilities it offers. The property is considered one of the most preferred locations to organise regional and global conferences. It also offers an area of over ​​7,000 square meters for events and exhibitions, including an amphitheatre, stunning ballroom and the largest number of meeting rooms in the region.
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advertorial: emirates palace, abu dhabi abu dhabi 2012
A world-class leader for meetings, incentives and conferences, Emirates Palace plays host to a number of spectacular events. Whether you are closing the deal of a lifetime or organising a training programme for your future leaders, Emirates Palace, winner of the 'World's Leading Meeting and Conference Hotel 2011', will always exceed your expectations. From professional staff to an elite set-up, specialised technicians and state-of-the-art AV equipment, come and experience this unique and flawless luxury destination.
Contact us For further information visit www.emiratespalace.ae, www.kempinski.com/abudhabi or call +971 2 690 9000
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hotel venues
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Hotel fact sheets with information on meeting capacities, function areas, AV capabilities and other facilities for easy reference by meeting planners
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hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Al Raha Beach Hotel
Location: Near Abu Dhabi International Airport and ADNEC. Distance to airport: 5 kilometres Leisure facilities: Body & Soul Spa, fully equipped gym, watersports, beauty salon, barber shop, indoor pool, two outdoor pools, kids' club and pool, squash courts, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, private marina and 18-hole golf course nearby F&B facilities: Azur (Mediterranean cuisine), Sevilla (international cuisine), La Piscine (pool, restaurant and bar), CafÂŽ Mozart (snacks and refreshments), Al Manzil, Clubhouse, Black Pearl (piano bar), Enigma (nightclub).
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Ba nq ue t
120 80 40 10 20 30 25 - -
500 300 120 - - 90 - - -
924 682 242 45.5 84 142.5 81 92.7 92.7
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Multilingual simultaneous translation Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
me tre s
Bo ard roo m
500 300 80 - - 54 - - -
134 15 41 41 54 Yes
He igh t/
Cla ssr oo m
800 600 150 - - 100 - - -
Ar ea /
Th ea tre
Grand Ballroom Abu Dhabi Ballroom Al Ain Ballroom Sapphire Meeting Room Zumrrod Meeting Room Al Mass Meeting Room Yaqoot Meeting Room VIP Lounge Fajrouz Lounge
/s ea ted
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
Note: Al Raha Beach Hotel will open its new extension in May 2012, adding 144 rooms and suites to its current accommodation facilities
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms Suites Twins Doubles Singles (king-size bed) Business support facilities
5.50 5.50 5.50 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Address: P.O. Box 38616, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 5080555 Fax: +971 2 5080444 Email: info.alraha@danathotels.com Web: www.danathotels.com
Signature Events. Unique Occasions at Al Raha Beach Hotel
Al Raha Beach Hotel provides the perfect venue for your next event with a myriad of options to choose from; whether its meetings, conferences, wedding receptions or product launches we have the expertise and the perfect solution. MEETINGS A choice of meeting rooms that can be set-up to your requirements. State-of-the art AV presentation equipment and full IT support. BANQUETS Accommodating up to 1000 guests, the Grand Ballroom has its own entrance. All of the options are extensive, varied and flexible, stunning outdoor setting for spectacular events. EVENTS An experienced, dedicated event management team will be on hand to help you plan and to supervise your event down to the very last detail. Outside catering is also our specialty. WEDDINGS The memories of your wedding will last a lifetime. We have a choice of spectacular indoor or outdoor venues to make the perfect backdrop for your special day. To find out what our team can add to your next event, email info.alraha@danathotels.com or call +971 2 508 0555
Managed by Danat Hotels & Resorts, a Division of National Corporation for Tourism & Hotels PO Box 38616, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates l T. +971 2 508 0555 l F. +971 2 508 0444 l info.alraha@danathotels.com l www.danathotels.com A Member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Aloft Abu Dhabi
Location: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) Distance to airport: 16 kilometres Leisure facilities: re:mix loungeSM (lobby lounge), re:chargeSM (fitness facility), Splash (pool), camp Aloft (children's camp) F&B facilities: w xyz barSM (cocktails and light bites), re:fuelSM by Aloft (graband-go area serving coffee, salads, sandwiches or snacks), dine (all-day dining, international cuisine), Ma Caf (international cuisine served poolside), relax@12 (rooftop bar with tapas and sushi)
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Ba nq ue t
50 17 30 17 50 17 50 30 17 30 50 17 30 30 17 17 11 30 30 17 - - 12 6 20
120 40 80 40 140 40 120 80 40 80 120 40 80 80 40 40 26 80 80 40 500 400 - - 20
218.5 117 171 117 235 117 218.5 170 117 170 206 117 180 180 117 127 82 85 180 117 1150 765 36 25 50
me tre s
Bo ard roo m
80 40 60 40 85 40 80 60 40 60 80 40 60 60 40 40 26 60 60 40 600 300 10 - 20
He igh t/
Cla ssr oo m
140 60 100 60 150 60 140 100 60 100 140 60 100 100 60 60 40 100 100 60 1000 600 20 15 50
Ar ea /
Th ea tre
Capital Suite 1 Capital Suite 2 Capital Suite 3 Capital Suite 4 Capital Suite 5 Capital Suite 6 Capital Suite 7 Capital Suite 8 Capital Suite 9 Capital Suite 10 Capital Suite 11 Capital Suite 12 Capital Suite 13 Capital Suite 14 Capital Suite 15 Capital Suite 16 Capital Suite 17 Capital Suite 18 Capital Suite 19 Capital Suite 20 Conference Hall A Conference Hall B Tactic (function) 1 Tactic (function) 2 Tactic (function) 3
/s ea ted
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
Aloft Abu Dhabi is part of the ADNEC complex with access to the exhibition centre's full complement of event halls, meeting rooms and conference rooms
3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 7.00 7.00 4.00 4.00 4.00
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms Suites Twins Double/single No. of rooms with facilities for disabled Business support facilities
408 33 100 275 5 Yes
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
Major events to be held in 2012: ¥ ISNR ¥ GIBTM ¥ Abu Dhabi International Book Fair ¥ World Ports and Trade Summit 2012 ¥ Beauty Secrets Show 2012 ¥ Made in Korea 2012 ¥ Power + Water Middle East ¥ UFI 2012 ¥ ADIPEC 2012 ¥ SIAL Middle East 2012 ¥ Abu Dhabi International Motor Show ¥ SME 2012
Address: P.O. Box 94943, ADNEC, Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6545000 Fax: +971 2 4499702 Email: sales.aloftabudhabi@alofthotels.com Web: www.aloftabudhabi.com
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi
Location: Tourist Club Area Distance to airport: 35 kilometres Leisure facilities: Beach club featuring a temperature-controlled swimming pool and kids' pool, 120-metre private beach, a fully equipped Bodylines Health & Fitness Club, two group fitness studios, three floodlit all-weather tennis courts and two squash courts, a covered kids' outdoor play area and supervised kids' cr che, a wide range of watersports, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and two massage rooms, Bay View pool and beach bars. Zen the Spa at Rotana offers 10 exquisitely designed treatment rooms and relaxation areas
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Ba nq ue t
80 100 80 30 30 30 30 40 30 12 16 28
240 200 240 50 50 50 70 80 70 - - 40
330 418 330 90.2 93.5 90.2 128.3 150 128.3 64 88 99
me tre s
Bo ard roo m
150 180 150 35 35 35 50 55 50 - - 35
He igh t/
Cla ssr oo m
300 400 300 60 70 60 90 100 90 - - 50
Ar ea /
Th ea tre
Al Thuraya A Al Thuraya B Al Thuraya C Almas 1 Almas 2 Almas 3 Diwan A Diwan B Diwan C Al Ain Boardroom Baniyas Boardroom Liwa Suite
/s ea ted
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
F&B facilities: Prego's (contemporary Italian cuisine), Rodeo Grill (steakhouse), Benihana (American-Japanese restaurant), Brauhaus (German bar and restaurant), Caf Columbia (caf ), The Caf at Beach Rotana Suites (all-day caf ), Bay View (light snacks and beverages), Finz Restaurant (seafood), Indigo (Indian cuisine), Trader Vic's (French-Polynesian), Essence (international all-day dining)
6.00 6.00 6.00 3.60 3.60 3.60 5.50 5.50 5.50 2.70 2.70 2.70
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 573 413 Suites and rooms (water facing) 8 Club Rotana (executive floors) 96 Junior suites Studios 19 Apartments (one bedroom) 15 16 Apartments (two bedroom) Apartments (three bedroom) 6 No. of rooms with facilities for disabled 2 Business support facilities Yes Conference facilities High-speed internet access Multilingual simultaneous translation Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
Address: P.O. Box 45200, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Tel: +971 2 6979000 Fax: +971 2 6442111 Email: beach.hotel@rotana.com Web: www.rotana.com
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Location: Yas Island Distance to airport: 10 kilometres Leisure facilities: State-of-the-art gym with sauna, steam rooms, a squash court, a 25-metre swimming pool and kids' pool as well as a kids' club F&B facilities: Jing Asia (all-day dining), Stills (European bar and brasserie), Barouk (Lebanese), Sundowner (pool bar), Views (lobby lounge)
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 428 45 Suites 90 Twins 293 Singles No. of rooms with facilities for disabled 4 Business support facilities Yes
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Cla ssr oo m
Bo ard roo m
Ba nq ue t
Ar ea /
He igh t/
me tre s
Th ea tre
Diyafa Ballroom Diyafa Ballroom Section 1-4 Boardroom Al Dorra, Sakina, Al Waha & Jamaal Meeting Rooms
/s ea ted
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
Conference facilities Complimentry high-speed internet access Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
540 100 48 30
300 60 30 24
96 34 24 15
400 80 40 20
500 125 63 40
4.87 4.87 2.40 2.40
Address: P.O. Box 41880, Yas Plaza, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6563170 Fax: +971 2 6563001 Email: myevent@cpyas.com Web: www.crowneplaza.com/abudhabi
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Designed for great thinking .
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Successful meetings tailor-made for you
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To ensure the success of every business event, we guarantee an attentive and personalised service. Our boardroom and four meeting rooms all feature state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment complete with natural daylight.The ballroom also offers a variety of event layouts and paired with the spacious outdoor terraces provides the ideal location for any function.Complimentary wireless internet can also be accessed throughout the hotel.
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island for enquiries please call +971 (0)2 656 3170 3170, email myevent@cpyas.com or visit www.crowneplaza.com/abudhabi Š2010 InterContinental Hotels Group. All Rights Reserved.
crowneplaza.com
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara
Location: Sir Bani Yas Island, Western Region (Al Gharbia) Distance to airport: 250 kilometres Leisure facilities: Fitness centre, kids' club, teens club, swimming pool, library, floodlit tennis court, Anantara Spa, nature and wildlife drive and walk, wadi walk, snorkelling, sailing, mountain biking, falcon show, kayaking and archery F&B facilities: The Palm (international and Middle Eastern cuisine), Samak (seafood restaurant), Al Shams (pool bar), The Lounge (lounge bar), Dining by Design Major events hosted in 2010/2011: 짜 Various governmental and high-profile events 짜 Incentive and team building activities 짜 Corporate and Executive Retreats
84
- - 26 20
- - - -
40.00 25.00 40.00 35.00
3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
me tre s
He igh t/
/s ea ted
12 8 14 12
Ar ea /
- - 16 14
Ba nq ue t
Bo ard roo m
Majilis meeting room Oryx board room Reem meeting room Llama break out room
Cla ssr oo m
Th ea tre
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
In addition to the meeting facilities within the resort and located directly adjacent to the resort, the brand new Conference Centre offers world class event facilities for up to 360 participants. The centre consists of a magnificent divisible ballroom as well as six individually configurable meeting rooms, each with a grand foyer
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 64 2 Suites 16 Twins 38 Doubles Beach villas 4 Royal villas 2 2 No. of rooms with facilities for disabled Business support facilities Yes
Address: P.O. Box 12452, Al Ruwais, Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 8015400 Fax: +971 2 8015404 Email: salesuae@anantara.com Web: www.desertislands.anantara.com
H H H H H
Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara
Location: Salam Street Distance to airport: 20 kilometres Leisure facilities: Anantara Spa with 10 treatment suites and hammam, hair and nail salon, fully equipped gymnasium, yoga and pilates studio, infinity pool over looking mangroves
86
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
Cla ssr oo m
Bo ard roo m
Ba nq ue t
Ar ea /
He igh t/
me tre s
Th ea tre
Mangroves Ballroom 1,2, or 3 Mangroves Ballroom 1+2 Mangroves Ballroom 1+2+3 Tides 1 Tides 2 Tides 3 Tides 4 Tides 5 Shores Majlis
/s ea ted
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
F&B facilities: Ingredients (all-day dining), Pachaylen (Thai), Impressions (rooftop lounge), The Pool Deck (poolside bar), Mangroves Lounge, Dining by Design
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 222 5+1 Suites 13 Twins 103 Doubles No. of rooms with facilities for disabled 2 Business support facilities Yes
130 280 460 - - - - - - -
96 189 315 - - - - - - -
36 40 64 12 12 14 16 18 18 20
80 200 320 - - - - - - -
186 372 558 24 24 36 45 54 90 72
5.30 5.30 5.30 2.40 2.40 2.40 2.40 2.40 5.30 2.40
Address: P.O. Box 126888, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6561000 Email: easternmangroves@anantara.com Web: abu-dhabi.anantara.com
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Location: Liwa Desert, Western Region (Al Gharbia) Distance to airport: 190 kilometres Leisure facilities: Archery, camel trekking, desert walk, desert yoga, mountain biking, desert excursions, Liwa tour, falcon show, Anantara Spa, three tennis court, fitness centre, kids' club, teens club, library F&B facilities: Al Waha (all-day dining international restaurant), Suhail (roof top bar and grill), Ghadeer (Mediterranean cuisine), Al Liwan (lobby lounge and bar), Dining by Design Major events hosted in 2010/2011: 짜 Abu Dhabi Adventure Challenge 짜 Various governmental and high-profile events 짜 Incentive and team-building activities 짜 Corporate and executive retreats
240 80 80 80 160 18 - -
362.50 118.90 118.90 118.90 237.80 46.50 29.90 29.90
me tre s
Ba nq ue t
- 40 40 40 - 14 10 10
He igh t/
Bo ard roo m
/s ea ted
Cla ssr oo m
168 70 70 70 140 - - -
Ar ea /
Th ea tre
408 140 140 140 280 - - -
Sq .m etr es
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
Capacity
Ballroom Ballroom A Ballroom B Ballroom C Ballroom A+B Royal Pavillion Meeting room 1 Meeting room 2
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 206 140 Deluxe 14 Suites 29 One-bedroom villa + pool Two-bedroom villa + pool 10 Three-bedroom villa + pool 3 10 Royal Pavillion villas No. of rooms with facilities for disabled 2 Business support facilities Yes
5.30 5.30 5.30 5.30 5.30 3.50 5.30 5.30
Address: P.O. Box 131277, 1 Qasr Al Sarab Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 8862088 Fax: +971 2 8862086 Email: salesuae@anantara.com Web: qasralsarab.anantara.com
87
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Emirates Palace
Location: West end Corniche Distance to airport: 30 kilometres Leisure facilities: Tennis, two swimming pools, beach, marina, spa, gym, FIFA-certified football pitch, 1.3 km private beach F&B facilities: Le Vendome (international buffet), Mezlai (Emirati cuisine), Mezzaluna (Italian), Sayad (seafood), BBQ Al Qasr (al fesco), Hakkasan (Cantonese), L'Auberge (Lebanese)
Auditorium Ballroom Ballroom Section 1 Ballroom Section 2 Ballroom Section 3 Ballroom Sections 1 & 2 Ballroom Sections 2 & 3 Conference Room 1 Conference Room 31 Meeting Room 1 / M001 M001A M001B Meeting Room 31 / M031 M031A M031B
88
1100 2400 860 860 860 1720 1720 - - 100 35 65 140 120 120
- 1500 410 410 410 970 970 - - 65 26 39 130 65 65
- - - - - - - 14 24 - - - - - -
- 1500 480 490 490 970 970 - - 80 30 50 180 90 90
me tre s
Sq .m etr es
3000 2183 703 740 703 1443 1480 - - 120 49 72 220 110 110
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Multilingual simultaneous translation Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
He igh t/
Ar ea /
Ba nq ue t
Bo ard roo m
Cla ssr oo m
Th ea tre
Capacity
/s ea ted
Major events hosted in 2011: 짜 Abu Dhabi Classics 짜 MICE summit 짜 Gourmet Abu Dhabi
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 302 92 Suites No. of rooms with facilities for disabled Yes Business support facilities
-
Address: P.O. Box 39999, West end Corniche, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6909000 Fax: +971 2 6909999 Email: info@emiratespalace.ae Web: www.emiratespalace.ae or www.kempinski.com/abudhabi
AD 89
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi
Location: Between The Bridges (Bain Al Jessrain) Distance to airport: 25 kilometres Leisure facilities: Two outdoor swimming pools (an Olympic-length pool and a covered children's pool), watersports, separate ladies' and mixed-use gyms, private sandy beaches
90
Cla ssr oo m
Bo ard roo m
Ba nq ue t
Ar ea /
He igh t/
me tre s
Th ea tre
Saqr Ballroom Saqr Ballroom A Saqr Ballroom B Saqr Ballroom C Saqr Ballroom Terrace Saqr Ballroom Pre-function A Saqr Ballroom Pre-function B Saqr Ballroom Pre-function Outdoor Area - Falcon Lawn Al Reem Al Reem A Al Reem B Sir Baniyas Sir Baniyas A Sir Baniyas B Sir Baniyas Pre-function Yas Saadiyat Al Futaisi Al Futaisi A/B Dalma Boardroom Bu Tinah Pier
/s ea ted
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
F&B facilities: Eight food and beverage outlets: Al Naba'a Lounge (lobby lounge); Chameleon (cocktail and Champagne bar); The Chocolate Gallery (chocolate-themed cafÂŽ); CuiScene (international all-day dining); Frankie's Italian Restaurant & Bar; Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill, Poolside (outdoor bar), Cedar Lounge (Lebanese restaurant)
1100 250 250 450 - - - - - 120 100 20 90 40 40 - 50 50 30 12 12 -
550 150 150 198 - - - - - 72 61 15 63 21 21 - 30 30 20 10 10 -
- - - - - - - - - 40 30 18 36 18 18 - 20 20 18 6 6 -
750 200 180 270 - - - - 650 90 70 - 70 30 30 - 30 30 20 - - 80
945 273 273 399 900 234 630 864 - 186 134 52 129 63 67 71 58 68 53 27 22 -
7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.80 -
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms Suites Twins (two queen-size beds) Doubles (king-size bed) No. of rooms with facilities for disabled Business support facilities
369 21 137 211 4 Yes
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Multilingual simultaneous translation Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
Address: P.O. Box 114304, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6543333 Fax: +971 2 6543322 Email: babalbahr@fairmont.com Web: www.fairmont.com/babalbahr
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Grand Millennium Al Wahda Hotel
Location: Al Wahda Mall Distance to airport: 35 kilometres Leisure facilities: Spa and health club (gym, sauna, steam, Jacuzzi), rooftop swimming pool F&B facilities: Al Wahda All-Day Dining (international and continental buffets), Porto Bello (Italian cuisine), Toshi (cuisine from Japan, Thailand, Malaysia and China), Lobby Lounge (coffees and teas, pastries), Reflexions Bar
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms Suites Singles/king-size bed No. of rooms with facilities for disabled Apartments (one bedroom) Apartments Premium (one bedroom) Apartments (two bedroom) Apartments Premium (two bedroom) Business support facilities
844 14 430 5 156 24 52 24 Yes
92
24 2424 - - 30 30 30 - 130
85.90 89.30 28.47 29.63 93.79 89.91 84.86 34.00 290.00
me tre s
25 25 - - 40 40 40 - 140
He igh t/
/s ea ted
24 24 16 16 30 30 30 10 60
Ar ea /
Ba nq ue t
36 36 15 15 40 40 40 - 220
Bo ard roo m
Al Habel and Al Qaffay Al Aafiq and Al Weheil Fujeirah Ajman Sharjah Abu Dhabi Dubai Glass House Saadiyat Ballroom
Cla ssr oo m
Th ea tre
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business Centre Themed coffee breaks
2.40 2.35 2.30 2.30 2.25 2.25 2.25 2.50 5.70
Address: Sheikh Hazza Bin Zayed Street, Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: + 971 2 4439999 Fax: +971 2 4953975 Email: sales@grandmill-alwahda.com Web: www.grandmillenniumalwahda.com
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi
Location: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) Distance to airport: 20 kilometres Leisure facilities: Fitness centre, Rayana Spa, outdoor swimming pool F&B facilities: 18没 (Eastern Mediterranean), Lounge (continental breakfast, afternoon tea, apero and tapas in the evening), Profiterole (sweet and savoury puff pastries and gourmet sandwiches), Pool Bar (wellness drinks and healthy snacks)
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 189 22 Suites 22 Twins 145 Doubles No. of rooms with facilities for disabled 2 Business support facilities Yes
94
- - 8/12 8/12 24
- - - - -
me tre s
/s ea ted Ba nq ue t
Bo ard roo m
12 10/14 10/14 10/14 18/26
He igh t/
- - 15 15 30
Ar ea /
Salon 1 Salon 2 Salon 3 Salon 4 Salon 3 & 4
Cla ssr oo m
Th ea tre
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
65 50 44.8 44.8 89.6
3.10 3.10 3.10 3.10 3.10
Address: P.O.Box 95165, ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 5961234 Fax: +971 2 5961235 Email: abudhabi.capitalgate@hyatt.com Web: abudhabi.capitalgate.hyatt.com
Indulge at Hyat t Capital Gate Abu Dhabi Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, a premium business hotel in the iconic Capital Gate, leans a recordbreaking 18 degrees. All 189 luxury five-star guestrooms and suites, offer contemporary and luxurious designs with panoramic views from floor-toceiling windows. Four exclusive state-of-the art Salons located on the mezzanine level provide the privacy and style required for important business gatherings, while PrivĂŠ can be used as a breakout venue for refreshments, casual light lunches or private functions / cocktail events. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer natural daylight, while the latest technology and experienced associates ensure every event is a resounding success. For more information or to make an enquiry please phone: +971 2 596 1234 or email: reservations.capitalgate@hyatt.com.
abudhabi.capitalgate.hyatt.com facebook.com/hyattcapitalgate The trademark HYATT and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Š2010 Hyatt Hotels Corporation. All rights reserved.
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
InterContinental Abu Dhabi
Location: Al Bateen Distance to airport: 37 kilometres Leisure facilities: Health club with gymnasium, Jacuzzi, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room and relaxation area, squash courts, tennis courts, massage, swimming pool, beach and private marina
96
Ba nq ue t
- 100 70 40 30 50 30 - 30 16 8 10 25 20 20 20 - - -
800 500 200 70 50 300 70 - 70 - - - - - - - - - -
1169 823.7 345.3 197.8 147.5 535.5 144.4 299.7 239.7 55.4 34.0 45.9 149.3 53.9 59.8 61.1 203.2 113.7 120.8
me tre s
Bo ard roo m
550 350 150 60 30 220 50 - 30 - - - 40 18 18 18 55 25 30
He igh t/
Cla ssr oo m
1200 600 200 100 50 400 80 264 40 - - - 70 25 25 30 80 35 40
Ar ea /
Th ea tre
Grand Ballroom Dar Al Istiqbal Ballroom Al Bateen & Al Baynouna Al Bateen Al Baynouna Liwa Majlis Ballroom El Waha Auditorium Binyas Majlis Board Room A Board Room B Board Room C MQ1 MQ2 MQ3 MQ4 MQ1-2 MQ 2 - 3 MQ 3 -4
/s ea ted
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
F&B facilities: Piano Lounge (coffee and cake); Belgian CafÂŽ (traditional Belgian cuisine and beverages); Selections (international all-day dining); Chamas Churrascaria & Bar (Brazilian barbecue); The Yacht Club (Japanese cuisine); Fishmarket (Thai-style fish and seafood); Boccaccio (Italian cuisine)
8.00 8.00 3.50 3.50 3.50 6.00 3.70 6.00 3.50 3.50 3.50 3.50 3.50 3.50 3.50 3.50 3.50 3.50 3.50
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 390 54 Suites 65 Twins 325 Singles/doubles No. of rooms with facilities for disabled 4 Business support facilities Yes Conference facilities High-speed internet access Multilingual simultaneous translation Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
Address: P.O. Box 4171, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6666888 Fax: +971 2 6669153 Email: abudhabi@icauh.ae Hotel Web: www.intercontinental.com/abudhabi Dining Web: www.dining-intercontinental-ad.ae
IF YOU WANT TO DISCOVER THE REAL ABU DHABI, GO STRAIGHT TO ITS HEART.
For more than 30 years, InterContinental Abu Dhabi has been at the very heart of life in the capital. From casual visitors to heads of government, we have welcomed guests from all over the world. So, we understand that people want much more than room and board. They want experiences that enrich and reward. That’s why we offer a range of insider packages designed to connect our guests to the real Abu Dhabi and create lasting memories.
For further information or to make a reservation call: +971 2 693 5154/5155 or email reservations@icauh.ae intercontinental.com/abudhabi dining-intercontinental-ad.ae. Terms & conditions apply. ©2011 InterContinental Hotels Group. All rights reserved.
In over 170 locations across the globe including Hong Kong • London • new YorK • Paris
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
Location: West Corniche Distance to airport: 37 kilometres Leisure facilities: 6P Gym, Talise Spa with 13 private treatment suites, over 30 retail boutiques, observation deck, pools, private beach
98
1000 210 200 200 210 420 420 - 70 280 - 50 50 100 40 70 30 30 60 - 10 20
me tre s
Sq .m etr es
- - - - - - - - 28 - - 32 24 - 12 - 12 20 - - 10 24
He igh t/
750 250 250 250 250 540 540 - 60 276 - 39 33 90 27 72 24 25 48 - 18 27
Ar ea /
Bo ard roo m
1400 340 260 260 340 600 600 - 96 340 - 60 70 120 40 110 40 45 115 - 20 53
Ba nq ue t
Cla ssr oo m
Ballroom Ballroom 1 Ballroom 2 Ballroom 3 Ballroom 4 Ballroom 1 & 2 Ballroom 3 & 4 Pre-function area 1 Meeting Rooms 1,2,3,4 Meeting Rooms 1-4 Pre-function area 2 Meeting Room 5 Meeting Room 6 Meeting Room 5&6 Meeting Room 7,8* Meeting Rooms 7&8 Meeting Room 9 Meeting Rooms 10 Meeting Rooms 9&10 Pre-function area 3 Meeting Room 11, 12,13* Meeting Room 12 & 13
Th ea tre
Capacity
/s ea ted
F&B facilities: Li Beirut (Lebanese cuisine), Rosewater (all-day dining), Brasserie Angelique (French cuisine), Tori No Su (Japanese cuisine), Quest (signature restaurant), Scott's (seafood), Nahaam (casual beach restaurant), Ray's Bar, Observation Deck (light refreshments), Bhodi (spa cafÂŽ), lobby lounge and lobby bar
1897 471 462 462 471 936 936 1800 144 576 320 128 96 192 76.5 153 59.5 76.6 136 300 42.5 85
8.50 8.50 8.50 8.50 8.50 8.50 8.50 8.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 6.00 4.50 4.50
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 382 18 Suites 60 Twins 332 Doubles No. of rooms with facilities for disabled 12 Business support facilities Yes Conference facilities Wireless internet access Onsite technical service provider Video-conferencing suites available Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Built-in screens and projectors Business centre Bespoke banqueting selector menus Chairman & bridal suite Private entrance to conference centre All conference and meeting facilities located on Podium level 4 Spacious pre function area
Address: P.O. Box 111929, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 8115555 Fax: + 971 2 8115588 Email: jadgroups@jumeirah.com Web: www.jumeirah.com
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana
Location: West Corniche Road, Ras Al Akhdar Distance to airport: 44 kilometres Leisure facilities: State-of-the art beach club with Bodylines health & fitness centre featuring one of the biggest outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pools in Abu Dhabi with a separate kids' pool, a private 200metre pristine beach sweeping around the lagoon, water and beach sports activities, fully equipped gymnasium, cardiovascular and weight training with professional instructors, sauna, Jacuzzi, steam, plunge pools, relaxation areas and massage rooms, two outdoor floodlit tennis courts and two squash courts, kids' facility, cr che and play area F&B facilities: Horizon (all-day dining, international cuisine with Oriental flavour), The Beach Restaurant (seafood, Arabic and Middle Eastern cuisine) and The Lounge (lobby caf ) Major events hosted in 2011: ¥ Abu Dhabi International Triathlon ¥ Volvo Ocean Race
100
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
Cla ssr oo m
Bo ard roo m
Ba nq ue t
Ar ea /
He igh t/
me tre s
Th ea tre
Meeting Plus 1 Meeting Plus 2 Meeting Plus 3 Meeting Plus 4 Meeting Plus 5 Meeting Plus 6
/s ea ted
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
700 participants 500 participants
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 443 51 Suites 84 Twins 4 No. of rooms with facilities for disabled Business support facilities Yes
100 180 90 160 70 70
45 72 42 72 30 33
46 88 44 80 26 21
80 150 80 140 60 60
150 258 146 238 91 92
3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00
Address: P.O. Box 4010, Corniche Road (West), Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6570000 Fax: +971 2 6570077 Email: khalidiya.rayhaan@rotana.com Web: www.rotana.com
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Le Royal M ridien Abu Dhabi
Location: Khalifa Street (opposite the Corniche) Distance to airport: 35 kilometres Leisure facilities: Indoor and outdoor swimming pool, health club F&B facilities: L'Opera (all-day dining), Soba (Asian), Amalfi (Italian), Shuja Yacht (seafood), Al Fanar (European), PJ O'Reilly (Irish pub), Piano Lounge, Palm Lounge (coffee), Illusions (nightclub), Sax (jazz bar), Oceans (seafood)
102
Conference facilities High-speed Internet access Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
Cla ssr oo m
Bo ard roo m
Ba nq ue t
Ar ea /
He igh t/
me tre s
Th ea tre
Mubarakia Suite Shaleela Suite Al Hosn Suite Liwa Grand Ballroom Liwa One Ballroom Liwa Two Ballroom Panorama Suite Al Jabal Suite Triangle Suite Al Waha Ballroom
/s ea ted
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
Major events hosted in 2011: ¥ Hosting of cocktail reception for French Prime Minister H.E Francois Fillion ¥ Hosting of the English Cricket Team and hosting of their official dinner ¥ Starwood Road to Awareness: the Cab Iftar and Cupcake ¥ Charity sales for Pakistan ¥ Corporate Ramadan Iftar
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 277 79 Suites 38 Twins 160 Doubles No. of rooms with facilities for disabled 1 Business support facilities Yes
80 100 60 350 170 130 25 80 50 30
40 50 30 150 80 40 15 35 30 15
35 40 20 120 60 40 16 35 25 12
60 100 40 300 150 100 25 70 55 20
170 170 130 571 170 234 85 166 177 41
3.20 3.20 3.20 4.80 4.80 4.80 3.20 3.20 -
Address: P.O. Box 45505, Sheikh Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6742020 Fax: +971 2 6742552 Email: info.lrmad@lemeridien.com Web: www.lemeridien.com/royalabudhabi
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H
H H H
Liwa Hotel
Mirfa Hotel
Location: Liwa Mezaira
Location: Mirfa
Distance to airport: 250 kilometres
Distance to airport: 165 kilometres
Leisure facilities: Outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi, children's playground, high-tech gym, volleyball
Leisure facilities: Outdoor swimming pool, beach, volleyball and basketball, tennis courts, sauna and steam room, high-tech gym, jet ski, wakeboarding, stand-up boarding, kayak, banana ride, boat cruise, fishing trip
F&B facilities: Green Liwa Oasis Restaurant (international cuisine), La Piazza Coffee Shop (beverage and snacks), Al Misyal Bar (beverage, snacks and salad), Al Rawaq Pool Bar (beverage, snacks and salad), Room Service (international cuisine) Major events hosted in 2011: ¥ Liwa Date Festival ¥ Gulf News Fun Drive ¥ Abu Dhabi Desert Adventures
F&B facilities: Manara Al Marfa (international cuisine), The Garden Terrace (international cuisine), The Sports Pub and Lounge (beverage outlet), Arabian Gulf Care (beverage and shisha), The Pool Bar (beverage), Room Service (international cuisine) Major events hosted in 2011: ¥ Al Gharbia Water Sports Festival ¥ Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge
100-120 60 40 35 40 35 - -
Conference Hall (2nd Floor) Meeting Room (2nd Floor) Meeting Room 1 (3rd Floor) Majlis (3rd Floor) Open Garden
50 20 60 200 -
40 20 30 80 -
20 40 88 m2 10 - 12 20 40 m2 16 30 93 m2 34 100 300 m2 - 1000 40 acre
Address: Mirfa, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 8833030 Fax: +971 2 8836400 Email: sm@mirfahotel.com Web: www.mirfahotel.com
114 6 2 Yes
me tre s
Bo ard roo m
Cla ssr oo m
Th ea tre
me tre s
He igh t/
Sq .m etr es
Ar ea /
30 60 180 m2 10 - 15 50 90 m2 10 - 15 50 90 m2 - 500 25 acre
Address: Liwa Mezaira, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 8822000 Fax: +971 2 8822830 Email: sm@liwahotel.net Web: www.liwahotel.net
104
Ba nq ue t
Bo ard roo m
Cla ssr oo m
Th ea tre
Conference Hall (1st Floor) Meeting Room 1 (1st Floor) Meeting Room 2 (1st Floor) Open Garden
/s ea ted
Capacity Capacity
Sq .m etr es
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms Suites Rooms with disabled facilities Business support facilities
He igh t/
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Multilingual simultaneous translation Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
/s ea ted
66 5 25 33 Yes
Ar ea /
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms Suites Twins Doubles Business support facilities
Ba nq ue t
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
• 2 Meeting Room - 10 – 50 pax. • 1 Conference /Banquet Hall - 120 pax. • Open Garden 25 acre for Function & Team Building. • 63 Rooms & Suites + 3 Private Villas. • Desert Activities.
• 3 Meeting Room - 10 – 60 pax. • 1 Conference /Banquet Hall - 200 pax. • Open Garden 40 acre for Function & Team Building. • 114 Rooms & Suites • Water Sport Activities.
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
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Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat
Location: Saadiyat Island Distance to airport: 35 kilometres Leisure facilities: Spectacular outdoor swimming pool, eight personal pool cabanas, kids' pool, spa facilities, including two treatment rooms, sauna, Jacuzzi, steam room and plunge pool, 'The Workout Room' fitness facility, a 600-square-metre grassy space suitable for hosting outdoor events, full schedule of kids' activities and a kids' club (available in the last quarter of 2012), three private beachfront 'bungalows', which feature flat-screen televisions (available in the last quarter of 2012)
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Themed coffee breaks
F&B facilities: Le Deck (award-winning restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine, with specialities inspired by the French and Italian Riviera and the Levant), The Library Lounge (understated d cor creates a stylish mellow mood and is reserved for annual members only), Bubbles Bar (bar on the terrace), The Sea Lounge (award-winning lounge modelled on the Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Monaco)
106
Fo rm al sit -do wn Bo ard roo m
Ba nq ue t
Ar ea /
300 250 250 - 300 320 80
150 70 100 16 200 250 -
200 - - 20 200 250 -
621 348 183 91 675 750 70
- - - 16 - - -
me tre s
Co ck tai l
Sea Lounge Le Deck Le Deck (terrace) Boardroom Event Lawn 1 Event Lawn 2 Bubbles Bar
/s ea ted
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
225 guests. 300 guests. 170 guests. 170 guests. 230 guests.
He igh t/
Major events hosted in 2011: ¥ Abu Dhabi Art 2011 ¥ Mubadala Event 2011 ¥ Delta Partners 2011 ¥ Etihad Airways 2011 ¥ Diplomatic group for spouses of ambassadors
-
Address: P.O. Box 55011, Saadiyat Island, Gate E, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6563500 Fax: +971 2 6563501 Email: info@montecarlobeachclub.ae Web: www.montecarlobeachclub.ae
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Park Rotana Abu Dhabi
Location: Abu Dhabi Media Zone Distance to airport: 22.5 kilometres Leisure facilities: Outdoor temperature-controlled main and paddling pool, fully equipped gym with professional fitness instructor, six spacious treatment rooms, floodlit tennis court F&B facilities: Amador Restaurant and Cellar (an outlet by three Michelin starred chef Juan Amador offering avant-garde cuisine), Teatro Restaurant (indoor and outdoor settings, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Italian cuisines), Cooper's Bar (traditional gastro pub), Ginger (indoor and outdoor settings, international buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner), Aquarius Pool Bar (outdoor pool bar, light snacks), ParKafe (lobby lounge) Major events hosted in 2011: 짜 Gourmet Abu Dhabi brunch 짜 Kazakhstan Food Festival 짜 Outside catering wedding - three-day event 짜 Embassy of Singapore National Day
108
Ba nq ue t
14 20 20 8 20 20 124 62 62
- 40 50 - 50 50 450 210 210
38.64 62.64 69.42 29.70 73.44 67.32 736 368 368
me tre s
Bo ard roo m
9 36 36 - 36 36 360 180 180
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
He igh t/
Cla ssr oo m
28 50 50 - 70 70 736 368 368
Ar ea /
Th ea tre
Meeting Plus 1 Meeting Plus 2 Meeting Plus 3 Meeting Plus 4 The Garden Room 1 The Garden Room 2 Grand Park Ballroom Grand Park Ballroom A Grand Park Ballroom B
/s ea ted
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
200 guests 600 guests 1,700 guests 280 guests
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 318 36 Suites 61 Twins 221 Doubles No. of rooms with facilities for disabled 2 Business support facilities Yes
3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 6.00 6.00 6.00
Address: P.O. Box 43377, Al Salam Street next to Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6573333 Fax: +971 2 6573000 Email: park.hotel@rotana.com Web: www.rotana.com/parkrotana
Forward thinkers required... At Park Rotana Abu Dhabi, we love forward thinkers. Book and contract your conference 2 months in advance, to get 10% OFF* Even better, do it 3 months in advance and enjoy 15% OFF* Add in our renowned personalised service, strategic location, comprehensive facilities and you have a deal that rewards forward thinkers. *Terms & Conditions: • Offer is valid until December 31, 2012 (excluding June 1, 2012 to August 31, 2012) • Offer is subject to availability • Other terms & conditions apply
P.O. Box: 43377, Abu Dhabi, UAE. T: +971 (0)2 657 3333, F: +971 (0)2 657 3000, park.hotel@rotana.com
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Location: Yas Island Distance to airport: 5 kilometres Leisure facilities: Swimming pool, children's swimming pool and play area, gym, health club, tennis court and The Spa F&B facilities: Asymmetri restaurant (international buffet); Filini restaurant (Italian); Fast Track lobby bar; Shams pool bar
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms Suites Twins Doubles No. of rooms with facilities for disabled Business support facilities
397 30 124 241 2 Yes
110
He igh t/
me tre s
Ar ea /
/s ea ted Ba nq ue t
30 30 30 30 30 45 8 450-500 100 100 100
Bo ard roo m
Andromeda Indus Cetus Hercules Fornax Corvus Lyra Galaxy ballroom Galaxy 1 Galaxy 2 Galaxy 3
Cla ssr oo m
Th ea tre
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
Conference facilities Free high-speed internet access Integrated video-conferencing Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
22 22 22 22 22 30 6 250 65 65 65
20 20 20 20 20 25 6 - 40 40 40
22 22 22 22 22 30 - 250 100 100 100
44 42 42 37 39 56 18 435 150 135 150
2.70 2.70 2.70 2.70 2.70 2.70 2.70 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
Address: Yas Plaza, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6562000 Fax: +971 2 6562001 Email: info.abudhabi@radissonblu.com Web: www.radissonblu.com/hotel-abudhabi/meetings
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri
Location: Between The Bridges (Bain Al Jessrain) Leisure facilities: Five beaches, five outdoor swimming pools, health club and spa facilities F&B facilities: Sofra bld (international all-day dining); Shang Palace (Cantonese cuisine); Hoi An (Vietnamese cuisine); Bord Eau (modern French cuisine); Pearls & Caviar (Mediterranean seafood); Lobby Lounge (cocktails and cigars); Al Hanah Bar; The Pool
112
Bo ard roo m
Ba nq ue t
Ar ea /
me tre s
Cla ssr oo m
250 - 50 45 - - 70 50 -
180 - 27 27 - - 55 30 -
60 - - - 10 10 30 22 -
200 - 40 38 - - 70 44 550
300 5.50 75 5.50 50 3.50 45 3.50 30 3.50 30 3.50 127 6.00 45.4 6.00 - Open Air
He igh t/
Th ea tre
/s ea ted
Capacity
Al Nojoom Al Nojoom foyer Nisreen Narjess Arjawan Yasmin Al Majlis 1 Al Majlis 2 Plaza Bar
Conference facilities High-speed internet access Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre
February 2011 February 2011 February 2011 November 2011 November 2011
Sq .m etr es
Major events hosted in 2011: ¥ Gourmet Abu Dhabi Arabian feast ¥ IDEX ¥ Laureaus World Sports Awards ¥ Abu Dhabi Junior Golf Championship ¥ Formula One Grand Prix event
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 214 26 Suites 29 Twins 159 Doubles No. of rooms with facilities for disabled 2 Business support facilities Yes
Address: P.O. Box 128881, Between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 5098888 Fax: +971 2 5585999 Email: slad@shangri-la.com Web: www.shangri-la.com
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
Location: Saadiyat Island Distance to airport: 20 kilometres Leisure facilities: Iridium Spa with 12 treatment rooms and salon, 3500-square-metre St. Regis Athletic Club with 25-metre indoor lap-pool, steam sauna and Jacuzzi and squash courts, two tennis courts, four outdoor pools F&B facilities: Olea (Mediterranean-inspired all-day dining), 55&5th,The Grill (signature venue), Turquoiz (seafood), Manhattan Lounge (bar), The Drawing Room (lobby lounge), Sontaya (southeast Asian), Sucre (pastry shop)
Regal Ballroom Regal Ballroom A Regal Ballroom B Regal Ballroom C Regal Ballroom A1/C1 Regal Ballroom A2/C2 Meeting Room 1 Meeting Room 2 Meeting Room 3 Meeting Room 4
114
2400 800 800 800 500 300 80 45 45 10
1350 450 450 450 300 150 50 40 36 8
400 125 125 125 n/a n/a 38 18 16 8
1500 500 500 500 380 120 40 33 30 8
Conference facilities Complimentary WI-FI Multilingual simultaneous translation Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
me tre s
Sq .m etr es
3000 1050 1050 1050 700 350 88 51 46 21
377 60 123 189 4 Yes
He igh t/
Ar ea /
Bo ard roo m
Cla ssr oo m
Th ea tre
Capacity
/s ea ted
550 guests 600 guests 1000 guests 350 guests 1000 guests
Ba nq ue t
Major events hosted in 2011/2012: ¥ Chequered Flag Ball ¥ Volvo Ocean Race gala dinner ¥ IRENA conference ¥ DU ¥ Etihad worldwide staff conference 2012
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms Suites Twins Doubles No. of rooms with facilities for disabled Business support facilities
10 10 10 10 10 10 4 3 3 3
Address: P.O. Box 54345, Saadiyat island, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 4988888 Fax: +971 2 4988889 Email: reservations.saadiyat@stregis.com Web: www.stregissaadiyatisland.com
BEYOND EXPECTATION The legacy continues with The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.
Set along a pristine white beach, overlooking azure blue waters and accompanied by the prestigious Saadiyat Beach Golf Course, the century-old heritage of St. Regis is redefined with Arabian flair. Mediterranean living with world-class golf against an azure sea, one of the many reasons why.
S A A D I Y AT I S LA N D , A B U D H A B I
stregis.com/saadiyatisland +971.2.498.8888
HOTEL DEBUTS :
ABU DHABI
BAL HARBOUR MAURITIUS
SANYA
DOHA
SHENZHEN
stregis.com
Š2011 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, St. Regis and their respective logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.
BANGKOK
FLORENCE TIANJIN
hotels: venues abudhabi 2012
H H H H H
The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa
Location: Khalifa City A Distance to airport: 5 kilometres Leisure facilities: 27-hole championship golf course
116
630.89 315.44 315.44 241.64 120.52 121.12 225.65 101.49 124.17 47.77 15.22
me tre s
Conference facilities High speed internet access Integrated video-conferencing Stage Flexible meeting rooms Dedicated events team Microphones Projectors Screen Video/CD players Business centre Themed coffee breaks
He igh t/
/s ea ted
330 - 420 140 - 180 140 - 200 120 - 170 50 - 70 50 - 70 100 - 150 45 - 60 45 - 60 45 21 60 - 14 (U-shape) -
Ar ea /
Cla ssr oo m
700 290 320 270 110 110 200 95 95 100 -
Ba nq ue t
Th ea tre
Master Ballroom Masters 1 Masters 2 Major Ballroom 3 & 4 Major East 3 Major East 4 Major Ballroom 1 & 2 Major West 1 Major West 2 Major 5 Boardroom
Bo ard roo m
Capacity
Sq .m etr es
F&B facilities: Fairways is an all-day dining featuring a culinary imprint from three regions (Arabia, Asia and Mediterranean) with live-cooking stations. The Lounge for a relaxing cup of coffee and tea, Lemon & Lime serves classic and creative cocktails. Agadir showcases the sophisticated elegance of Moroccan cuisine. The Retreat is an ideal venue to catch up with your favourite sporting events. Shades is a tropical-themed pool bar. In-room menu brings tasty and wholesome choices to the comfort of your room 24 hours a day
Accommodation facilities Total number of guestrooms 172 19 Suites 54 Twins 97 Singles No. of rooms with facilities for disabled 2 Business support facilities Yes
5.10 5.10 5.10 3.51 3.51 3.51 3.01 3.01 3.01 3.56 2.40
Address: P.O. Box 126797, Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 6169999 Fax: +971 2 6169998 Email: westinauh.info@westin.com Web: www.westinabudhabigolfresort.com
Shopping arcade/boutique (Y/N)
Fitness centre (Y/N)
Tennis court/s (Y/N)
Watersports (Y/N)
Beachfront (Y/N)
Swimming pool/s (Y/N)
Spa (Y/N)
Total no. of restaurants
Business centre (Y/N)
Exhibition space available (Y/N)
Max. capacity for banquets
Max. capacity for cocktails
Area of ballroom (sq. metres)
Conference equipment available (Y/N)
Max. capacity classroom-style
Max. capacity theatre-style
In-room PC/fax/internet access (Y/N)
Handicapped facilities available (Y/N)
Group check-in available (yes/no)
Number of suites/villas/chalets
Total number of rooms
Distance from airport (kilometres)
Location: resort/city
Total no. of meeting rooms
HHHH
Al Diar Capital Hotel P.O. Box 73837, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6787700 Fax: +971 2 6787790 Email: adcaphtl@emirates.net.ae Web: www.aldiarhotels.com C
-
200 60
Yes Yes Yes
1
40
18
Yes
-
-
-
No Yes
7
Yes No No
No No Yes No
HHHH
Al Diar Palm - Hotel Apartments P.O. Box 2406, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6420900 Fax: +971 2 6420800 Email: diarpalm@emirates.net.ae Web: www.aldiarhotels.com C
75
72
-
Yes Yes Yes
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1
No No No
No No Yes No
HHH
Al Diar Regency Hotel P.O. Box 47600, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6765000 Fax: +971 2 6777446 Email: regencyhotel@regency-mina.ae Web: www.aldiarhotels.com C
40 193 48
Yes Yes Yes
1
25
25
Yes
-
-
-
No Yes
1
No No No
No No Yes No
HHHHH
Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana P.O. Box 5946 Najda corner Hamdan street Tel: +971 2 6106666 Fax: +971 2 6107777 Email: almaha.arjaan@rotana.com Web: www.rotana.com
ABU DHABI
C
30
288 148
Yes Yes Yes
4
120
54
Yes 161 180 120 Yes
Yes
1
No Yes No
No
No Yes Yes
HHHHH
Al Manzel Hotel Apartments P.O. Box 129666, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6448000 Fax: +971 2 6444422 Email: info@almanzel-hotelapartments.ae Web: www.almanzel-hotelapartments.ae C
30 216 143 Yes Yes Yes
2
50
24
Yes 40
20
30
No Yes
1
Yes Yes No
HHHHH
Al Raha Beach Hotel P.O. Box 38616, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 5080555 Fax: +971 2 5080444 Email: info.alraha@danathotels.com Web: www.danathotels.com R
10 134 15
(See advertisement on page 77)
Yes Yes Yes 11 800 500 Yes 924 800 500 Yes Yes
7
Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes
HHHH
Aloft Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 94943, ADNEC, Khaleej Al Arabi street, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6545000 Fax: +971 2 4499702 Email: sales.aloftabudhabi@alofthotels.com Web: www.aloftabudhabi.com C
20
408
33
Yes Yes Yes
No No Yes No
36
-
500
Yes 765 1000 530 Yes
Yes
(See advertisement on page 79) 3
No Yes No
No
No Yes No
HHHHH
Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel, The P.O. Box 29810, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 4415900 Fax: +971 2 4415666 Email: reservation@afoc.mil.ae Web: www.afoc.mil.ae C
15 600 56
Yes Yes Yes 30 650 160 Yes 1890 1000 10000 Yes Yes
4
Yes Yes No
HHHHH
Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 45200, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6979000 Fax: +971 2 6442111 Email: beach.hotel@rotana.com Web: www.rotana.com C/R 35
118
565 151
Yes Yes Yes
No Yes Yes No
12 1200 550
Yes 1100 1000 900 Yes
(See advertisement on page 81) Yes
11
Yes Yes Yes
Yes Yes Yes Yes
hotels: where to stay
Shopping arcade/boutique (Y/N)
Fitness centre (Y/N)
Tennis court/s (Y/N)
Watersports (Y/N)
Beachfront (Y/N)
Swimming pool/s (Y/N)
Spa (Y/N)
Total no. of restaurants
Business centre (Y/N)
Exhibition space available (Y/N)
Max. capacity for banquets
Max. capacity for cocktails
Area of ballroom (sq. metres)
Conference equipment available (Y/N)
Max. capacity classroom-style
Max. capacity theatre-style
Total no. of meeting rooms
In-room PC/fax/internet access (Y/N)
Handicapped facilities available (Y/N)
Group check-in available (yes/no)
Number of suites/villas/chalets
Total number of rooms
Distance from airport (kilometres)
Location: resort/city
abu dhabi 2012
HHH
Centro Yas Island P.O. Box 131755, Golf Plaza Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6564444 Fax: +971 2 5651415 Email: centro.yasisland@rotana.com Web: www.rotana.com C
15 259
-
Yes Yes Yes
3
74
34
Yes
-
70
70
-
Yes
3
No Yes No
No Yes Yes No
HHHH
Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 72898 Zayed the 1st street Tel: +971 2 6520000 Fax: +971 2 6520001 Email: res.auh@cristalhotels.ae Web: www.cristalhotelsandresorts.com C
29
192 128
Yes Yes Yes
7
120
80
Yes
-
(See advertisement on page 4)
135 100 Yes
Yes
1
Yes Yes No
No
HHHH
Cristal Salam Hotel P.O. Box 107523 8th street Tourist Club area Tel: +971 2 6597666 Fax: +971 2 6597777 Email: res.salam@cristalhotels.ae Web: www.cristalhotelsandresorts.com C
28
112
6
Yes Yes Yes
No Yes Yes
4
40
18
Yes
-
50
35
(See advertisement on page 4) No Yes
2
Yes Yes No
No
No Yes No
HHHHH
Crowne Plaza Hotel Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 3541, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6210000 Fax: +971 2 6166143 Email: reservation@cpabudhabi.ae Web: www.crowneplaza.com/abudhabiuab
ABU DHABI
C
37 236 48
Yes Yes Yes
7
420 210 Yes 786 680 310 No Yes
7
No Yes No
No No Yes No
HHHH
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island P.O. Box 41880 Yas Island Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6563000 Fax: +971 2 6563001 Email: info@cpyas.com Web: www.crowneplaza.com/abudhabi C
10 428 45
Yes Yes Yes
(See advertisement on page 83)
10 540 300 Yes 500 600 400 No Yes
5
No Yes Yes
No
No Yes Yes
HHHHH
Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort P.O. Box 12333, Jebel Dhanna, Ruwais, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 8012222 Fax: +971 2 8012333 Email: info.jebeldhanna@danathotels.com Web: www.danathotels.com R
240 109
6
Yes Yes Yes
3
400 100 Yes 304 500 250 Yes Yes
2
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HHHHH
Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara P.O. Box 12452 Al Ruwais Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 8015400 Fax: +971 2 8015404 Email: dirs@anantara.com Web: desertislands.anantara.com R
250 64
8
Yes Yes Yes
3
30
20
Yes 525 360 240 Yes Yes
(See advertisement on page 85) 4
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HHHHH
Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara P.O. Box 126888 Eastern Road, Salam street, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 4061737 Email: easternmangroves@anantara.com Web: www.abu-dhabi.anantara.com C
20 222
6
Yes Yes Yes
7
(See advertisement on page 85)
460 315 Yes 558 552 320 No Yes
2
Yes Yes No
HHHHH
Emirates Palace P.O. Box 39999 West Corniche, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6909000 Fax: +971 2 6909999 Email: info@emiratespalace.ae Web: www.emiratespalace.ae C
38
394
92
Yes Yes Yes
Yes No Yes Yes
40 2400 1500 Yes 3500 3000 3000 Yes
(See advertisement on page 72-73) Yes
8
Yes Yes Yes
Yes Yes Yes Yes
119
P.O. Box 114304, between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6543333 Fax: +971 2 6543322 Email: babalbahr@fairmont.com Web: www.fairmont.com/babalbahr C
25
369
21
Yes Yes Yes
6
Shopping arcade/boutique (Y/N)
Fitness centre (Y/N)
Tennis court/s (Y/N)
Watersports (Y/N)
Beachfront (Y/N)
Swimming pool/s (Y/N)
Spa (Y/N)
Total no. of restaurants
Business centre (Y/N)
Exhibition space available (Y/N)
Max. capacity for banquets
Max. capacity for cocktails
Area of ballroom (sq. metres)
Conference equipment available (Y/N)
Max. capacity theatre-style
Total no. of meeting rooms
In-room PC/fax/internet access (Y/N)
Handicapped facilities available (Y/N)
Group check-in available (yes/no)
Number of suites/villas/chalets
Total number of rooms
Distance from airport (kilometres)
Location: resort/city
Max. capacity classroom-style
HHHHH
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi
(See advertisement on page 91)
1200 850 Yes 945 1000 750 Yes Yes
8
No Yes Yes
No
No Yes Yes
HHHHH
Grand Millennium Al Wahda
P.O. Box 107080 Sheikh Hazza Bin Zayed Street Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 4439999 Fax: +971 2 4953975 Email: sales@grandmill-alwahda.com Web: www.millenniumhotels.com (See advertisement on page 93) C
35
844
14
Yes Yes Yes
6
220 130 Yes 700 150 140 Yes Yes
3
Yes Yes No
No
No Yes No
HHHH
Golden Tulip Al Jazira Hotel & Resort P.O. Box 262658, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 5629100 Fax: +971 2 5629035 Email: info@goldentulipaljazira.com Web: www.goldentulipaljazira.com R
45 110
6
Yes Yes Yes
3
140 40
Yes 560 170 150 Yes Yes
6
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HHHH
Hala Arjaan by Rotana - Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 53066 Hamdan Street, Tourist Club area Tel: +971 2 4180000 Fax: +971 2 4180001 Email: hala.arjaan@rotana.com Web: www.rotana.com
ABU DHABI
C
31
166
73
Yes Yes Yes
1
-
-
Yes
-
-
16
No No
1
Yes Yes No
No
No Yes No
HHHHH
Hilton Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 877 Corniche Road Abu Dhabi Tel:+971 2 6811900 Fax: +971 2 6811696 Email: abudhabi.info@hilton.com Web: www.abudhabi.hilton.com C
35
327
38
Yes Yes Yes
14
600 300 Yes 888 700 500 Yes Yes
14
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HHHH
Hilton Baynunah Towers P.O. Box 30877, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6327777 Fax: +971 2 6216777 Email: baynunah-towers@hilton.com Web: www.hilton.com C
45
87
87
Yes No Yes
1
150 90
Yes 138 120 70
No Yes
1
No Yes No
No No Yes No
HHHH
Hilton Corniche Hotel Apartments P.O. Box 6677, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6276000 Fax: +971 2 6270099 Email: corniche@hilton.com Web: www.hilton.com C
39 187 82
Yes No Yes
2
90
45
Yes 281 120 120 Yes Yes
2
No Yes Yes
No No Yes No
HHHH
Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 46668, 31st Street between Muroor Road and Airport Road Tel: +971 2 6574888 Fax: +971 2 6574999 Email: reservations@hiauh.com Web: www.holidayinn.com/abudhabi C
23 203
5
Yes Yes Yes
3
20
15
Yes 289 240 190 Yes Yes
2
Yes Yes No
HHHHH
Hyatt Capital Gate, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 5546, ADNEC Tel: +971 2 5961234 Fax: +971 2 5961235 Email: abudhabi.capitalgate@hyatt.com Web: www.abudhabi.capitalgate.hyatt.com C
120
20
189
22
Yes Yes Yes
4
30
No No Yes Yes
24
Yes
-
60
-
(See advertisement on page 95) Yes
Yes
3
Yes Yes No
No
No Yes No
hotels: where to stay
P.O. Box 4171, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6666888 Fax: +971 2 6669153 Email: abudhabi@icauh.ae Web: www.intercontinentalabudhabi.com/abudhabi 37
390
54
Yes Yes Yes
9
1200 550 Yes 1169 1500 800 No Yes
7
No Yes Yes
382
18
Yes Yes Yes
13 1400 750
Yes 1897 2000 1000 Yes
Yes
10
Yes Yes Yes
443
51
Yes Yes Yes
6
180
72
No
No Yes Yes
HHHHH
P.O. Box 4010, Corniche Road (West) Tel: +971 2 6570000 Fax: +971 2 6570077 Email: khalidiya.rayhaan@rotana.com Website: www.rotana.com 40
Shopping arcade/boutique (Y/N)
(See advertisement on page 99)
Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana
R
No Yes Yes No
HHHHH
P.O. Box 111929, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 8115555 Fax: +971 2 8115586 Email: JADinfo@jumeirah.com Web: www.jumeirah.com 37
Fitness centre (Y/N)
(See advertisement on page 97)
Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
C
Tennis court/s (Y/N)
HHHHH
InterContinental Abu Dhabi
C
Watersports (Y/N)
Beachfront (Y/N)
Swimming pool/s (Y/N)
Spa (Y/N)
Total no. of restaurants
Business centre (Y/N)
Exhibition space available (Y/N)
Max. capacity for banquets
Max. capacity for cocktails
Area of ballroom (sq. metres)
Conference equipment available (Y/N)
Max. capacity classroom-style
Max. capacity theatre-style
Total no. of meeting rooms
In-room PC/fax/internet access (Y/N)
Handicapped facilities available (Y/N)
Group check-in available (yes/no)
Number of suites/villas/chalets
Total number of rooms
Distance from airport (kilometres)
Location: resort/city
abu dhabi 2012
Yes
-
(See advertisement on page 101)
200 150 Yes
Yes
3
No Yes Yes
Yes Yes Yes Yes
HHHH
Le Méridien Hotel Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 46066, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6446666 Fax: +971 2 6455717 Email: lemeridien.abudhabi@lemeridien.com Web: www.lemeridien.com/abudhabi
ABU DHABI
C
35 234 21
Yes Yes Yes
2
400 120 Yes 252 400 200 No Yes
9
Yes Yes Yes
HHHHH
Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 45505, Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6742020 Fax: +971 2 6742552 Email: info.irmad@lemeridien.com Web: www.leroyalmeridienabudhabi.com C
35 277 79
(See advertisement on page 103)
Yes Yes Yes 10 300 120 Yes 404 1000 500 Yes Yes
7
No Yes No
No No Yes No
HHH
Liwa Hotel P.O. Box 6450 Liwa City, Western Region, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 8822000 Fax: +971 2 8822830 Email: info@liwahotel.net Web: www.almarfapearlhotels.com/liwa C
230
58
No Yes Yes No
8
Yes Yes Yes
3
120
60
Yes 180 100
60
Yes
(See advertisement on page 105) Yes
1
No Yes No
No Yes Yes Yes
HHHH
Mafraq Hotel P.O. Box 6770, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6596666 Fax: +971 2 5822899 Email: mafraq@emirates.net.ae Web: www.mafraq-hotel.ae C
15 250
5
Yes No Yes
4
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Yes
5
No Yes No
No Yes Yes No
HHHH
Mercure Centre Hotel Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 47136 Sheikh Hamdan Street, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6333555 Fax: +971 2 6210128 Email: h0662@accor.com Web: www.mercure-abu-dhabi-centre-hotel.com R
120 50
6
Yes No Yes
4
80
34
Yes 300 150 100 No Yes
1
No Yes Yes
No Yes Yes No
HHHHH
Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 44486 Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6146000 Fax: +971 2 6146005 Email: sales@mill-abudhabi.com Web: www.millenniumhotels.com C
35 305 75
Yes Yes Yes
8
350 108 Yes 525 175 190 No Yes
4
Yes Yes No
No No Yes No
121
P.O. Box 77123 Mirfa City, Western Region, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 8833030 Fax: +971 2 8836400 Email: info@mirfahotel.com Web: www.almarfapearlhotels.com/mirfa C
160 108
6
Yes Yes Yes
4
200
80
Yes 300 150 100 Yes
Yes
1
No Yes Yes
-
3
-
Yes Yes
1
20
Shopping arcade/boutique (Y/N)
Yes Yes Yes Yes
HHHHH
P.O. Box 55011 Saadiyat Island, Gate E, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6563500 Fax: +971 2 6563501 Email: info@montecarlobeachclub.ae Web: www.montecarlobeachclub.ae 35
Fitness centre (Y/N)
(See advertisement on page 105)
Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat
C
Tennis court/s (Y/N)
Watersports (Y/N)
Beachfront (Y/N)
Swimming pool/s (Y/N)
Spa (Y/N)
Total no. of restaurants
Business centre (Y/N)
Exhibition space available (Y/N)
Max. capacity for banquets
Max. capacity for cocktails
Area of ballroom (sq. metres)
Conference equipment available (Y/N)
Max. capacity classroom-style
Max. capacity theatre-style
Total no. of meeting rooms
In-room PC/fax/internet access (Y/N)
Handicapped facilities available (Y/N)
Number of suites/villas/chalets
Total number of rooms
Distance from airport (kilometres)
Location: resort/city
Group check-in available (yes/no)
HHH
Mirfa Hotel
16
No 750 320 250 No
(See advertisement on page 107) No
3
Yes Yes Yes
No
No Yes Yes
HHHH
One to One - The Village P.O. Box 12897, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 4952000 Fax: +971 2 4952001 Email: info.thevillage@onetoonehotels.com Web: www.onetoonehotels.com R
20 128 18
Yes Yes Yes
3
50
30
Yes
-
-
50
No Yes
7
Yes Yes No
No No Yes Yes
HHHHH
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas P.O. Box 436806, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +97156 6876074 Email: salik.mangrio@hyatt.com Web: www.abudhabi.park.hyatt.com
ABU DHABI
C
20 306 39
Yes Yes Yes 11 350 245 Yes 523 550 300 Yes Yes
3
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HHH
Park Inn Abu Dhabi, Yas Island P.O. Box 93725, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6562222 Fax: +971 2 6562223 Email: info.abudhabi@rezidorparkinn.com Web: www.parkinn.com/hotel-abudhabi C
7
204 10
Yes Yes Yes
2
36
24
Yes
-
42
28
No Yes
2
Yes Yes No
HHHHH
Park Rotana Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 43377 Salam Street, next to Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6573333 Fax: +971 2 6573000 Email: park.hotel@rotana.com Web: www.rotana.com C
22
318
36
Yes Yes Yes
6
140
72
Yes 736 1200 450 Yes
Yes
6
(See advertisement on page 109) Yes Yes No
P.O. Box 131277, 1 Qasr Al Sarab Road, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 8862088 Fax: +971 2 8862086 Email: infoqas@anantara.com Web: www.qasralsarab.anantara.com 190 206
56
Yes Yes Yes
2
30
10
Yes 363 420 240 Yes
(See advertisement on page 85) Yes
4
Yes Yes No
P.O. Box 93725 Yas Island Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6562000 Fax: +971 2 6562225 Email: info.abudhabi@radissonblu.com Web: www.radissonblu.com/hotel-abudhabi 5
397
30
Yes Yes Yes
8
500 250
Yes 435 400 250 Yes
No Yes Yes Yes
HHHH
Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island
C
No Yes Yes No
HHHHH
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
R
No Yes Yes No
(See advertisement on page 111) Yes
2
Yes Yes Yes
No Yes Yes No
HHHHH
Rocco Forte Hotel, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 2785, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Streeet, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6170000 Fax: +971 2 6170900 Email: sales.abudhabi@roccofortecollection.com Web: www.roccofortecollection.com C
122
20
281
32
Yes Yes Yes
7
300 180
Yes 715 700 500 Yes
Yes
7
Yes Yes No
No
No Yes Yes
hotels: where to stay
P.O. Box 128881, Between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 5098888 Fax: +971 2 5585999 Email: slad@shangri-la.com Web: www.shangri-la.com 20
214
32
Yes Yes Yes
7
250 180
Shopping arcade/boutique (Y/N)
Fitness centre (Y/N)
Tennis court/s (Y/N)
HHHHH
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
C
Watersports (Y/N)
Beachfront (Y/N)
Swimming pool/s (Y/N)
Spa (Y/N)
Total no. of restaurants
Business centre (Y/N)
Exhibition space available (Y/N)
Max. capacity for banquets
Max. capacity for cocktails
Area of ballroom (sq. metres)
Conference equipment available (Y/N)
Max. capacity classroom-style
Max. capacity theatre-style
Total no. of meeting rooms
In-room PC/fax/internet access (Y/N)
Handicapped facilities available (Y/N)
Group check-in available (yes/no)
Number of suites/villas/chalets
Total number of rooms
Distance from airport (kilometres)
Location: resort/city
abu dhabi 2012
Yes 300 300 200 Yes
(See advertisement on page 113) Yes
5
Yes Yes Yes
No
No Yes Yes
HHHHH
Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort P.O. Box 640, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6773333 Fax: +971 2 6725149 Email: sheraton.abudhabi@sheraton.com Web: www.sheratonabudhabihotel.com C/R 40
272
17
Yes Yes Yes
6
700 400
Yes 905 800 600 Yes
Yes
9
Yes Yes Yes
Yes Yes Yes Yes
HHHH
Sheraton Khalidiya Hotel P.O. Box 6727, Zayed the 1st Street - Khalidiya Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6666220 Fax: +971 2 6666291 Email: sheraton.khalidiya@sheraton.com Web: www.sheratonkhalidiyaabudhabi.com C
45 284 69
Yes Yes Yes
8
390 270 Yes 268 150 100 No Yes
3
No Yes No
No No Yes No
HHHH
Staybridge Suites Abu Dhabi Yas Island P.O. Box 42375, Abu Dhabi Yas Island Tel: +971 2 6563333 Fax: +971 2 6563344 Email: enquiries@yas.staybridge.com Web: www.staybridgesuites.ae
ABU DHABI
C/R 15 165 165 Yes Yes Yes
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1
No Yes No
HHHHH
St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, the P.O. Box 54345 Saadiyat Island Tel: +971 2 4988888 Fax: +971 2 4988889 Email: reservations.saadiyat@stregis.com Web: www.stregissaadiyatisland.com R
20
377
60
Yes Yes Yes
4
80
50
No No Yes No
(See advertisement on page 115)
Yes 3000 2100 1500 Yes
Yes
7
Yes Yes Yes
No Yes Yes Yes
HHHH
Tilal Liwa Hotel P.O. Box 112723, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 8946111 Fax: +971 2 8946112 Email: info.tilal@danathotels.com Web: www.danathotels.com R
160 111
7
Yes Yes Yes
4
250 150 Yes 185 160 120 No Yes
1
No Yes No
No No Yes No
HHHH
Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 128881, Between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 5108888 Fax: +971 2 5108999 Email: thad@tradershotels.com Web: www.tradershotels.com C
20
301
13
Yes Yes Yes
1
45
30
Yes
-
-
-
No Yes
1
Yes Yes Yes
P.O. Box 126797, Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6169999 Fax: +971 2 6169998 Email: westinauh.info@westin .com Web: www.westinabudhabigolfresort.com 5
172
19
Yes Yes Yes
11
700 330
Yes 631 150 420 Yes
No Yes Yes
HHHHH
The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa
C
No
(See advertisement on page 117) Yes
6
Yes Yes No
No
No Yes No
HHHH
Yas Island Rotana P.O. Box 131755 Golf Plaza Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6564000 Fax: +971 2 5651414 Email: yasisland.hotel@rotana.com Web: www.rotana.com/yasislandrotana C
10
308
27
Yes Yes Yes
3
480 270
Yes 450 400 320 Yes
Yes
4
Yes Yes No
No Yes Yes Yes
123
hotels: where to stay
ABU DHABI
Shopping arcade/boutique (Y/N)
Fitness centre (Y/N)
Tennis court/s (Y/N)
Watersports (Y/N)
Beachfront (Y/N)
Swimming pool/s (Y/N)
Spa (Y/N)
Total no. of restaurants
Business centre (Y/N)
Exhibition space available (Y/N)
Max. capacity for banquets
Max. capacity for cocktails
Area of ballroom (sq. metres)
Conference equipment available (Y/N)
Max. capacity classroom-style
Max. capacity theatre-style
Total no. of meeting rooms
In-room PC/fax/internet access (Y/N)
Handicapped facilities available (Y/N)
Group check-in available (yes/no)
Number of suites/villas/chalets
Total number of rooms
Distance from airport (kilometres)
Location: resort/city
abu dhabi 2012
HHHHH
Yas Viceroy P.O. Box 131808, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 2 6560000 Fax: +971 2 5650001 Email: info@viceroyhotelsandresorts.com Web: www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/abudhabi C
15
499
75
Yes Yes Yes
6
45
24
Yes 504 600 240 Yes
Yes
7
Yes Yes No
No
No Yes No
HHHHH
Al Ain Rotana P.O. Box 1210, Al Ain Tel: +971 3 7545111 Fax: +971 3 7545444 Email: alain.hotel@rotana.com Web: www.rotana.com C
51
198
30
Yes Yes Yes
6
1000 390
Yes 1040 1200 800 Yes
Yes
4
No Yes No
No
No Yes Yes
HHHH
Ayla Hotel P.O. Box 86990, Al Ain Tel: +971 3 7610111 Fax: +971 3 7610333 Email: info@aylahotels.com Web: www.aylahotels.com C
25
153
18
Yes Yes Yes
4
800 160
Yes 998 900 700 Yes
Yes
2
Yes Yes
No
AL AIN
P.O. Box 16031, Al Ain Tel: +971 3 7046000 Fax: +971 3 7046009 Email: info.alain@danathotels.com Web: www.danathotels.com -
216
26
Yes Yes Yes
No Yes No
HHHH
Danat Al Ain Resort
R
No
9
1000 500
Yes 592 1000 850 Yes
(See advertisement on page 7) Yes
7
Yes Yes No
No Yes Yes Yes
HHHH
Hilton Al Ain P.O. Box 1333, Al Ain Tel: +971 3 7686666 Fax: +971 3 7687597 Email: sales.alain@hilton.com Web: www.hilton.com R
35
202
71
Yes No Yes
6
650 350
Yes 556 500 350 Yes
Yes
6
No Yes No
No Yes Yes Yes
HHHH
Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet Hotel P.O. Box 24476, Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain Tel: +971 3 4076888 Fax: +971 3 7838786 Email: H3573@accor.com Web: www.mercure.com R
124
20
124
9
Yes Yes Yes
6
280 140
Yes 374 300 250 No Yes
3
Yes Yes No
Yes No Yes Yes
services: listings abu dhabi 2012
support services EXHIBITION ORGANISERS
Faradah for Events
UBMi UAE
Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry
P.O. Box 39995 Abu Dhabi +971 2 666 5445 +971 2 666 5446 info@faradah.ae www.faradah.ae
P.O. Box 95001 Abu Dhabi +971 2 406 4471 +971 2 449 6305 info@ubmiuae.com www.ubmiuae.com
Flash
Viola Events
P.O. Box 77828 Abu Dhabi +971 2 509 8000 +971 2 441 8741 info@thinkflash.ae www.thinkflash.ae
P.O. Box 43241 Abu Dhabi +971 2 644 9444 +971 2 645 1199 info@viola.ae www.viola.ae
Fonoon
Xpressionz Events
P.O. Box 59501 Abu Dhabi +971 2 666 0708 +971 2 666 1545 info@fonoon-uae.com www.fonoon-uae.com
P.O. Box 6140 Abu Dhabi +971 2 634 7744 +971 2 634 0378 marketing@xpressionz.biz
P.O. Box 662, Abu Dhabi +971 2 444 6900 +971 2 444 6135 adnec@emirates.net.ae www.adnec.ae
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Company (ADNEC) P.O. Box 5546, Abu Dhabi +971 4 2603033 simon@24degrees.com
Al Hader Exhibitions & Conferences P.O. Box 35979, Abu Dhabi +971 2 622 2733 +971 2 622 2754 al-hader@al-hader.com www.al-hader.com
DMG World Media P.O. Box 94879 Abu Dhabi +971 2 444 4909 +971 2 444 4383 hanadialiwat@dmgevents.com www.dmgevents.com
Dome Exhibitions P.O. Box 52641, Abu Dhabi +971 2 674 4040 +971 2 672 1217 domexh@eim.ae www.domeexhibitions.com
Reed Exhibitions FZ LLC P.O. Box 60799 Abu Dhabi +971 2 444 6113 +971 2 444 3768 fida.dahlan@reedexpo.ae www.reedexpo.com
Trans Continental Fairs Management P.O. Box 43697, Abu Dhabi +971 2 679 5444 +971 2 679 5136 theees@emirates.net.ae www.tcfm.ae
Intellego Event Management
EVENT SUPPORT COMPANIES AD Box P.O. Box 38181 Abu Dhabi +971 2 634 6611 +971 2 634 3100 ceo@adbox.ae www.adbox.ae
Aim Events P.O. Box 59111 Abu Dhabi +971 2 501 5711 +971 2 501 5887 hala.yazouri@aimevents.net www.aimevents.net
BSL Middle East P.O. Box 77808 Abu Dhabi +971 2 401 2745 +971 2 401 1741 events@bslworld.com www.bslworld.com
P.O. Box 113673 Abu Dhabi +971 50 558 8492 julia@intellego-events.com www.intellego-events.com
Tarfeeh P.O. Box 93956 Abu Dhabi +971 2 681 7882 +971 2 681 7884 bassam@tarfeeh.ae www.tarfeeh.ae
DMCs & Local Tour Operators Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau P.O. Box 278 Abu Dhabi +971 2 633 8700 +971 2 634 6020 atb@emirates.net.ae www.abudhabitravelbureau.com
Desert Adventures Tourism P.O. Box 45377 Abu Dhabi +971 2 556 6155 +971 2 5566955 abudhabi@desertadventures.ae www.desertadventures.com
key
Telephone Fax Email Website
Events RĂ• Us P.O. Box 4551 Abu Dhabi +971 2 645 6605 +971 2 645 6604 info@events-rus.com www.events-rus.com
Turret Events P.O. Box 77806 +971 2 401 2777 +971 2 401 1760 info@turretme.com www.turretme.com
Event Solutions P.O. Box 111693 Abu Dhabi +971 2 690 8977/78 +971 2 690 8979 info@eventsolutions.ae www.eventsolutions.ae
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services: listings abu dhabi 2012
Falcon Tours & Travel
Bin Ham Rent A Car
Eurostar Rent A Car
P.O. Box 43832 Abu Dhabi +971 2 634 4333
P.O. Box 47299 Abu Dhabi +971 2 679 5377 +971 2 679 5378 bnrentcr@emirates.net.ae
P.O. Box 859 Abu Dhabi +971 2 645 5855 +971 2 644 2140 www.eurostarrental.com
Bin Juma Suwaidi Group
Fast Rent A Car
P.O. Box 47787 Abu Dhabi +971 2 681 8819 +971 2 679 5378 bjsgroup_auh@hotmail.com
P.O. Box 6365 Abu Dhabi +971 2 632 4000 +971 2 633 8484 rentacar@emirates.net.ae www.fastuae.com
Gulf Express Travel P.O. Box 15309 Abu Dhabi +971 2 634 3498 +971 2 632 5759 gulfexp@emirates.net.ae
Kurban Tours P.O. Box 73479 Abu Dhabi +971 2 633 2887 +971 2 633 5884 Abudhabi@kurbantours.com www.kurbantours.com
Budget Rent A Car
Net Tours & Travel P.O. Box 37907 Abu Dhabi +971 2 679 4656 +971 2 6711232 info@netgroupauh.com www.netgroupauh.com
Omeir Travel Agency P.O. Box 267 Abu Dhabi +971 2 612 3456 +971 2 622 5654 marketing@omeir.com www.omeir.com
SNTTA-EMIR Incentives & Conferences P.O. Box 8845 Dubai +971 4 286 5758 +971 4 286 5666 tours@snttadubai.com www.sntta.com
Sunshine Tours P.O. Box 46806 Abu Dhabi +971 2 444 9914 +971 2 444 6856 kadhem.alsulaiman@adnh.com www.adnh.com
CAR RENTAL COMPANIES Al Ghazal Transport P.O. Box 8200 Abu Dhabi +971 2 444 9300 +971 2 444 4719 jzl1@emirates.net.ae
Al Shaeer Rent A Car P.O. Box 30103 Abu Dhabi +971 2 634 4135 +971 2 634 4170 mgmest62@emirates.net.ae
Avis Rent A Car P.O. Box 3237 Abu Dhabi +971 2 621 8400 +971 2 631 2023 res@avis.ae www.avisuae.com
126
P.O. Box 3292 Abu Dhabi +971 2 633 4200 +971 2 633 1498 reservations@budget-uae.com www.budget-uae.com
Sahab Rent A Car
Dollar Rent A Car
Thrifty Rent A Car
P.O. Box 48282 Abu Dhabi +971 2 641 9002 +971 2 641 5001 auh@dollaruae.ae www.dollaruae.ae
P.O. Box 5216 Abu Dhabi +971 2 634 5663 +971 2 634 0234 rez@thriftyuae.com www.thriftyuae.com
Europcar P.O. Box 4399 Abu Dhabi +971 2 626 1441 +971 2 621 1957 www.europcar-middleeast.com
P.O. Box 3292 Abu Dhabi +971 2 633 4200 +971 2 633 1498 www.sahabuae.com
services: events abu dhabi 2012
CALENDAR March 2012
CITYSCAPE
Spring Show March 29 to April 7 A shopping extravaganza with brilliant bargains, the Spring Show is a fun-filled experience for all the family. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: Royal Show
April 2012 Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2012 April 22 to 25 The international property investment and development event is an annual networking exhibition and conference focusing on all aspects of the property development cycle. It attracts regional and international investors, property developers, leading architects and designers to an annual forum that celebrates the very best in real estate, architecture, urban planning and design. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: IIR Middle East
May 2012 International Jewellery and Watch Show Abu Dhabi (JWS 2012) May 1 to 5 JWS, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, is an exclusive and high-end jewellery and watch event. Through its showcase of the worldÕs leading brands in the worldÕs richest city, the event attracts elite retailers and distributors. JWS Abu Dhabi 2012 is organised by Reed Exhibitions, part of the Reed Jewellery Group and complements one of the most prestigious jewellery shows in the world, JCK Las Vegas. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: Reed Exhibitions FZ-LLC
ICT World 2012 May 14 to16 The 6th Middle East International Communications Exhibition and Conference is dedicated to fixed line, mobile, internet, satellite and enterprise-solution sectors. The business-to-business communications networking platform is an ideal showcase of the latest industry technology, products and innovations. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: IIR Middle East
Shams Festival 2012 May 31 to June 9 ADNEC hosts the popular Shams Festival 2012 that offers a wide range of shopping bargains under one roof. Visit ADNEC for a fantastic air-conditioned shopping experience in a relaxed cool atmosphere. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: Al Multaqa Local & International Exhibition
Arab Market 2012
July 2012
May 1 to 12 The Arab Market is a popular shopping fair that attracts thousands of people for its enjoyable shopping experience. From readymade garments, abayas, silks and kashmere shawls to exquisite paintings and artefacts, the show offers a great mixture of the latest and traditional shopping. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: EXCON Middle East
July 29 to August 19 This popular exhibition combines a consumer show with traditional celebrations. The event showcases family-friendly consumer goods, unique gift items, Arabic food, toys and games, as well as traditional song and dance during the month of Ramadan. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: Al Multaqa Local & International Exhibitions
September 2012 Abu Dhabi International Hunting & Equestrian Exhibition 2012 September 5 to 8 ADIHEX offers a complete hunting and equestrian experience. Featuring camel and horse auctions, saluki shows, art competitions and traditional hunting activities, ADIHEX is a dynamic event that captures UAEÕs deep-rooted traditions, culture and heritage. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: Emirates Falconers Club/Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture & Heritage
Routes Ð The 18th World Route Development Forum September 30 to October 3 World Routes, the World Route Development Forum, is the global meeting place for every airline, airport and tourism authority. It is the place to examine air services, find out about new market developments and bring yourself up to speed on the burgeoning destinations. It also provides airports and airlines with unrivalled business development opportunities. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: UBM Aviation Ð Routes
Abu Dhabi International Hunting & Equestrian Exhibition
Ramadan & Eid
127
services:events abu dhabi 2012
October 2012 Power and Water Middle East 2012 October 8 to10 This exhibition provides an ideal platform for companies involved in the power generation, energy and water sectors to exhibit products, services, solutions and project references and enable them to conduct and evaluate business opportunities with targeted key decision makers. The exhibition serves as a showcase for the regional and international power generation, energy and water industries. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: IIR Middle East
Abu Dhabi Medical Congress October 14 to16 The Abu Dhabi Medical Congress brings together healthcare manufacturers, wholesalers, dealers and distributors. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: IIR Middle East
Najah Education Training Careers 2012 October 16 to18 One of the most comprehensive education, training and careers events ever to be held in the UAE, the Najah Education Training Careers 2012 event has been created specifically to service the needs of all three distinct sectors in one focused environment and provide tailored solutions to each visitorÕs needs VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: IIR Middle East
BETT Middle East 2012
Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference (ADIPEC) 2012
ADNEC HAS A PACKED CALENDAR FOR 2012
November 11 to 14 Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) is the meeting place of the international oil and gas community. The theme for 2012 is ÔMeeting the Increasing Oil and Gas Demand through InnovationÕ VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: DMG World Media
Middle East Manufacturing Exhibition (MEMEX) 2012 November 19 to 21 MEMEX is the premier manufacturing sector trade show to be held in Abu Dhabi. The exhibitor profile includes machinery and machine tools, welding, joining and heat treatment, automation and robotics, air technology, process control, engineering and IT. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: IIR Middle East
Signage, Imaging & Media Show (SIM) 2012 November 19 to 21 The show is a combined platform for three vertical sectors under one roof: signage, imaging and media. The exhibitor profile includes digital printing, imaging, signage, image libraries, communication services, print, electronic and new media. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: IIR Middle East
October 21 to 22 BETT Middle East is dedicated to showcasing the best in educational technology products, resources and best practice, enabling thousands of practitioners to enhance their knowledge of learning through technology. Endorsed by the Abu Dhabi Education Council, BETT Middle East will feature over 100 exhibitors presenting a vast array of ICT products, services and solutions. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: EMAP
SIAL Middle East 2012
photo: Naiyyer / Shutterstock.com
November 26 to 28 Part of the SIAL Group of international events, SIAL Middle East is the regionÕs dynamic event for the food, drink, hospitality, and foodservice industries. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: Turret Middle East
November 2012 2012 UFI Congress November 6 to 9 UFI Annual Congresses are privileged events during which UFI members gather to exchange their experiences and opinions on common issues. This major event is recognised as the ultimate networking opportunity for the worldÕs leading exhibition organisers, venue managers and partners of the industry. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: UFI - The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry
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Ferrari Enzo on display during Abu Dhabi International Motor Show 2010
December 2012 Abu Dhabi International Motor Show (ADIMS) 2012 December 19 to 23 The Abu Dhabi International Motor Show will feature the latest and best vehicles from around the world, with all the big names in passenger cars and automobile accessories in attendance. VENUE: ADNEC ORGANISER: Reed Exhibitions FZ-LLC