Iconic UAE hotel is under new management as Abu Dhabi's Yas Hotel is now operated by Viceroy Hotel Group
One of the UAE's most iconic hotels is under new management, after Aldar Properties announced Abu Dhabi's Yas Hotel will be operated by international firm the Viceroy Hotel Group.
Familiar around the globe as the sleek structure which spans Abu Dhabi's Formula One circuit on Yas Island, the Yas Hotel opened for the emirate's inaugural hosting of an F1 race in 2009 and was named "World's Best New Hotel" at the World Travel Award in 2010.
Now, after what it described as a "comprehensive selection process", state-backed developer Aldar has announced that Viceroy - which has hotels in a number of countries around the globe under its two brands 'Viceroy' and 'The Tides' - has won the right to operate the hotel.
In a statement, Aldar said this was in part due to the firm's "ability to maximise returns" and its "highly experienced team".
Aldar deputy chief executive and chief commercial officer Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak explained why he believed Viceroy - which currently has luxury properties in California, Florida, and plans for new properties in the Maldives and Abu Dhabi's Sowwah Island development - were the right fit for the hotel.
"Their reputation for delivering returns for owners and operating unique "experience" hotels make them the perfect fit for this important asset,"" he said.
Viceroy Hotel Group chief executive Brad Korzen said Yas Hotel marked the company's first property outside of North America, something he said was fitting considering the firm has made the UAE capital the base for its international headquarters.
"We are thrilled to be adding this incredible property to our expanding management portfolio of ultra luxury hotels," he said.
© 7Days 2011
