Aldar's Coconut Island to boast first Ritz-Carlton managed property in Abu Dhabi

Coconut Island will bring a new level of luxury to Abu Dhabi and is destined to be one of the most exclusive developments in the region with its exceptional facilities and superb location.

Aldar signed a joint venture agreement with National Corporation for Tourism and Hotels (NCTH) to develop Coconut Island in 2007. The resort is due to open in 2011, and includes a high-end residential community, stunning lagoon, a marina, a world class spa, and now, a spectacular new Ritz-Carlton hotel.

"The Coconut Island project will introduce a sophisticated, elegant oasis to the heart of Abu-Dhabi, offering an exclusive hideaway for discerning international and regional patrons," commented Ronald S. Barrott, CEO, Aldar Properties. "By signing this management agreement to bring the first Ritz-Carlton hotel to Abu-Dhabi Aldar and NCTH are clearly demonstrating their commitment to bring a new class of development to the Emirate."

The island will be linked to the mainland by a private dual carriageway, ensuring limited traffic on the island, and the ultimate privacy for residents of the gated community and visitors to the hotel and marina alike. With sea views from every angle, the island will be a destination in itself, with The Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi as a jewel in its crown.

"The Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi on Coconut Island plays a key role in our group's regional expansion in the Middle East," says Simon Cooper, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. "We are delighted that, with this agreement with Aldar Properties, we are able to introduce The Ritz-Carlton service values to this capital city and provide a new, exciting luxury hotel experience for our loyal guests."

Designed by Malaysia-based Denniston International Architects and Planners, the 160-room resort is comprised of 130 guestrooms, and 30 suites and deluxe villas. "Aldar Hotels and Hospitality seeks to partner with the best of the best in international design and luxury hospitality providers, such as the Ritz-Carlton, and the world-class designers and architects that will work on the project," commented Paul Bell, Managing Director, Aldar Hotels & Hospitality.

Most of the rooms will be artfully designed over multiple landscape levels, ensuring unobstructed sea and lagoon views. All villas and suites will include water features with swimming pools and spacious sundecks. Resort rooms will be a minimum of 55 square metres in size, while the luxury villas range from 130 to 230 square metres.



About Aldar Hotels and Hospitality
Aldar Hotels and Hospitality is poised to play a major role in the development of the hotel and hospitality sector in Abu Dhabi. It identifies hospitality related opportunities on Aldar developments and determines best fit brand, partners and business models.