3 minute read
W Abu Dhabi, Yas Island
BACKGROUND This iconic property on Yas Island was taken over by the trendy W brand in November 2019, just before the pandemic hit, so it’s only now, with Abu Dhabi opening back up and events like the F1 welcoming spectators again, that it is getting its chance shine. Abu Dhabi uses the Al Hosn app, a green pass to show vaccination status, which must be shown by guests, not only when travelling around the emirate, but in the hotel too. Only vaccinated travellers are permitted in public spaces in the emirate.
WHAT’S IT LIKE? Architecturally, the hotel is striking and unique, both inside and out, taking its inspiration from Abu Dhabi culture. From pearl diving to fishing, artistic references abound, setting it apart from the more uniform, soulless chain hotels. A destination in itself, the hotel is cool, chic and unique. Unlike many of the big chains, there is no sense of uniformity here; character and style define every aspect of the property, from the pool to the bars.
WHERE IS IT? On Yas Island, straddling the Yas Marina Circuit F1 track. It’s 15 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, close to Saadiyat Island with its cultural, business and university districts, and business areas such as TwoFour54 and the Aldar HQ. It is also just one hour from Dubai.
BEST FOR Location and ambience
DON’T MISS A suite with track views
PRICE From AED550 ($150) per night in December
CONTACT +971 2 656 0000; marriott.com
ROOMS The hotel has 499 rooms across two buildings. I stayed in the 110 sqm Fabulous Suite, which had spectacular floor-to-ceiling windows revealing views across to the beautiful mangroves, a large work desk and my personal in-room musthave – a Bose Bluetooth speaker. The suite has a wrap-around 180-degree balcony, guaranteeing excellent views of the track on race days, plus a kitchenette, guest toilet
and huge en-suite bedroom. The suite is the perfect place to host friends or colleagues with a huge living area worthy of a party. Beautiful toiletries are courtesy of the W’s own brand and they have really tried to think of everything, especially for women, with a wide range of products including face wash and make-up remover.
FOOD AND DRINK The W Lounge is a beautifully designed indoor and outdoor space with an international menu, live DJ and a real buzz, although it’s very smoky and on busy evenings, the presence of a conspicuous security guard roaming around to enforce COVID-19 restrictions somewhat dampens the mood. Garage, the main restaurant, o ers all-day dining with an extensive menu and live cooking stations, but not to be missed in the cooler weather is the Wet Deck, where dining and drinks at the rooftop pool really reveal the architectural magnificence of the property.
BUSINESS The hotel has a huge events space, including 10 breakout rooms, and will no doubt become one of the city’s most favoured conference venues now the city is back open and given its dynamic location. There is also a business centre with high-speed internet, printing and copying facilities and presentation technology.
LEISURE A large well-equipped gym, luxurious spa, and an adults-only pool, in addition to the family pool.
VERDICT Perfect for a weekend break, a corporate getaway or a business trip, this property not only has great spaces and facilities, but atmosphere and character.
