After much anticipation, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal has opened its doors.

The 532-room luxury resort is the first Ritz-Carlton in Abu Dhabi and the ninth property in the Middle East for the luxury hotel operator.

Inspired by 15th to early 17th century Renaissance architecture and the urban planning of the city of Venice, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is located at the waterfront and consists of ten stately buildings arranged in a crescent formation.

Overlooking the 1,600 square meter pool, the backdrop of the hotel is the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

The property features 447 luxurious guestrooms and suites, in addition to 85 private one- and two-bedroom villas.

“We are delighted to open our first hotel in the United Arab Emirates capital of Abu Dhabi, a city we have waited to be in until finding absolutely the right location,” said Herve Humler, president, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.

“Warm Arabian hospitality combined with legendary Ritz-Carlton service will create many unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for visitors from around the world.”

Abu Dhabi, the largest of UAE’s seven emirates, was a fishing village known regionally for its pearl trade just 50 years ago. 

Today, luxury and style are infused with traditional values of hospitality and culture, and make this dynamic city a draw for over two million visitors annually. 

Made up of 200 small islands, Abu Dhabi’s stunning beaches, expansive desert and lush oases provide a venue for exhilarating adventure or tranquil retreat while the old souks and majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – recently named one of the world’s top visitor attractions – offer an intimate look into Arabian culture.