First “aloft” hotel in Middle East at Abu Dhabi’s Capital Centre

Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide have revealed the designs of the first aloft hotel in the Middle East, a 4-star 400-room property which is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2009.

“The new aloft brand is the perfect marriage between operator and owner. Exhibition attendance numbers are soaring and ADNEC expects 1.5 mln visitors in 2008. By 2009 numbers are predicted to increase and aloft, being strategically positioned adjacent to the Exhibition Centre, will directly benefit from this high foot-fall,” said ADNEC’s Business Development Director, Sanjay Tanna.

“aloft is one of eight hotels which are planned for Capital Centre. They are being developed so that the emirate of Abu Dhabi can meet the growing demand for business tourism facilities which is being generated by the successful Exhibition Centre,” Tanna added.

“Guests will be able to read the paper, work on their laptops with wireless internet access, de-stress at either the re:charge fitness centre or splash, the indoor or outdoor pool and re:fuel at the 24 hour, food and beverage area,” explained President Europe, Middle East & Africa, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc., Roeland Vos.

Every guest room will have a nine-foot ceiling, oversized windows – creating a bright and airy environment, a walk-in shower, amenities created by bliss spa and an ultra-comfortable signature bed.

Each guest room is also a combination of a high-tech office and entertainment centre, featuring wireless internet access and plug and play – a one-stop connectivity solution for multiple electronic gadgetry such as PDA’s, cell phones, mp3 players and laptops – all linked to a large flat panel HDTV ready television for optimal sound and viewing.