ABU DHABI – Abu Dhabi's Saadiyat island, known for its world-class cultural, leisure and hospitality offerings, has recently gained recognition as a prominent location for events, say luxury hoteliers. Notable hospitality trends in Abu Dhabi include an increased demand from the government and corporate sectors now hosting impressive events – from business conferences and exhibitions to galas and social gatherings on the island, with Saadiyat's Beach District also gaining prominence for destination weddings, thus competing with popular locales across Europe and Asia, such as Spain and Thailand, respectively. Building on the island success with events such as Abu Dhabi Art at the UAE pavilion, organizers of esteemed exhibitions such as the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the Etihad World Conference, and the Volvo Ocean Race have chosen The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort as their preferred venue. During the holy month of Ramadan, corporate organizations hosted sumptuous iftars, with guest lists as large as 1,500 people. “The city's development of hospitality, leisure and corporate sectors, coupled with Saadiyat's plans to host world-class cultural institutions, create an extravagant retreat to host guests, be it for a corporate function, gala dinner or family occasion," said Jeremy Canivet, Director of Events, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi. “As Saadiyat continues to expand, an increased number of guests are seeking to indulge in and explore the resort's MICE and weddings offerings," continued Canivet. “The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort boasts The Regal Ballroom, the emirate's largest banquet facility within a hotel and the city's premiere location designed to host any vibrant occasion." Providing an unparalleled venue to impress even the most discerning guest, the spacious 3,000 square meters The Regal Ballroom features a large foyer ideal for pre-function events, an adjoining ocean-view terrace and a separate VIP entrance, detached from the hotel. An ideal setting for conferences, exhibitions and grand occasions, the ballroom is equipped with state-of-the-art audio visual equipment and supported by an impressive boardroom, three meeting rooms, a majlis and an event's office. The interiors include plush carpeting framed by majestic columns that guide the eyes to dazzling, crystal chandeliers descending from recessed ceilings. The venue can cater to 1,700 guests for a seated gala or be divided into smaller, more intimate spaces that can accommodate 300 to 500 guests. In line with the St. Regis brand promise to deliver an experience beyond expectation, the resort's banqueting facilities and services consider the smallest of details, from customized dining options to assistance in selecting decorative themes for weddings. Special packages are also readily available and can be customized to ensure a stress-free event from start to end. Representing the brand's debut in the Middle East region, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi opened in December of 2011 and is located on the pristine white natural beaches of Saadiyat, a short 10-minute drive from the city center and a 20-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport. The resort incorporates a blend of Mediterranean and Arabic influences creating a unique, exciting and seductive address. Saadiyat is the flagship project of Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), a master developer of tourism, cultural and residential projects in Abu Dhabi, and is at the forefront of the Emirate's vision to become a global destination. Just ten minute drive from Abu Dhabi's Corniche, Saadiyat will house iconic cultural attractions including Zayed National Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. In addition to beachfront luxury hotels, beach club and championship beachfront golf course, the island will include more than three million square meters of office space, marinas with berths for 1,000 boats, civic and leisure facilities, sea-view apartments and elite villas. – SG
