New Rotana property launches on Saadiyat Island

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, a one-of-a-kind, five-star property, has launched phase one of its opening this week, and we were lucky enough to get a sneak peek into what guests can expect when it opens in its entirety later in the year.

Nestled in the heart of Saadiyat Island, the resort’s location boasts a haven of abundant natural beachfront beauty and wildlife, whilst only being a convenient 15-minute drive from the city. With 327 rooms, modern dining options, and a chic selection of suites and villas, this new Rotana resort is a must for your next family staycation, and here’s why…

Four of the resort’s diverse dining outlets are already open, with a further three set to open over the coming months, and whether you’re with the kids or looking for a parents-only night out, you can be sure to expect fresh ingredients, authentic flavours, and a distinctive culinary experience at each. The restaurants are cool and comfortable, with authentic décor that is in-keeping with the outlets theme, including the signature Turtle Bay Bar & Grill restaurant, Sim Sim all-day dining, Sama Lobby Lounge with stunning sea views, and the refreshing Swim Up Pool Bar.

• The all-day dining restaurant, Sim Sim, offers an expansive international buffet, inviting guests to explore the world with authentic dishes from Middle Eastern specialties to European and Asian flavors.
• Turtle Bay Bar & Grill is an ambient restaurant with stunning rooftop bar and relaxed sounds from live DJs. Set to become the island’s hottest sunset spot, Turtle Bay boasts exceptional views from day to night, and freshly grilled meals from the land and sea.
• The spacious Sama Lobby Lounge is the perfect place to indulge and relax with a coffee and a sweet treat, with modern bright interiors and expansive views over the turquoise waters.

Phase two of the resort’s opening will invigorate the city’s dining scene, with the introduction of Si Ristorante Italiano & Bar, and Hamilton’s Gastropub – the first two of their kind on the island. This will be followed by the opening of Nasma Beachfront Bar, presenting a chilled atmosphere overlooking the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf.

Saadiyat Island is envisaged as a centre for breathtaking cultural and heritage experiences, home to world-class museums including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and unique exhibition space Manarat Al Saadiyat, all just a few minutes’ drive from Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas.

For little guests, the hotel has a fantastic kids club, Aladdin’s cave, complete with lazy river, pool, games room, and cinema room.

For little guests, the hotel has a fantastic kids club, Aladdin’s cave, complete with lazy river, pool, games room, and cinema room.

Fitness Club with a private entrance, and a mini golf course that will keep guests entertained as they soak up the Saadiyat sunshine.

With its natural beachfront, guests will be in good company at Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas with regular visitors including Hawksbill Turtles, seahorses, dolphins, dugong and oryx. The wildlife theme even continues throughout the hotel with large turtle statues surrounding the pool, and even turtle-embroidered beach towels.

Featuring modern contemporary décor, with Arabian accents throughout, the property boasts a vast, glass-front lobby overlooking Saadiyat’s sweeping beaches, with a sparkling fountain flowing through the resort.

The natural, light-filled lobby houses unique artwork, including seven glass floor panels containing majestic sands from the seven different Emirates. The resort also showcases an exclusive artwork collection by talented Emirati artist, Ashwaq Abdulla, depicting exquisite features of Saadiyat Island and Emirati culture.

Phase two will see the launch of Zen the spa at Rotana, offering 10 luxuriously appointed treatment rooms, and traditional Turkish and Moroccan hammam as well as even more dining options in the form of Si Ristorante Italiano & Bar, and Hamilton’s Gastropub. To suit an array of event and meeting needs, the resort will also introduce three fully equipped banquet and event spaces, an elegant ballroom and The Lawn, a spectacular outdoor event venue designed with memorable weddings and events in mind.