As the only hotel in the world to span a Formula 1 race track, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island has quite the kinetic reputation to live up to.
Situated smack in the thick of it on Abu Dhabi’s leisure and entertainment hub, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island offers a sense of something different from the moment you arrive. Pulling up to the valet amidst dancing fountains from which we glimpse the signature W branding through the cascading jets, we’re met with a pounding soundtrack entirely in keeping with the young and funky W brand.
Inspirational architecture is found not just on the external facade of the building, which features a latticed framework lit by striking coloured illuminations a night but also throughout the interiors. The welcome area features welcome desks shaped like oil drops while protruding images of pearl divers with pegs across their noses to help them hold their breath, all hark back to the history of the UAE. It’s young, vibrant and altogether refreshing for a city in which the hotels are predominantly designed to instil in guests a feeling of grandeur and opulence.
W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island is rooted in a distinct sense of place and this locality is engrained into the very fabric of the building, with subtle nods and bold statements found throughout the decor. The retail element adjacent to the lobby is a classic example, with stage lights and a catwalk that wouldn’t be out of place at New York fashion week.
There’s also a playfulness to proceedings, with elevator mats that change throughout the day from a friendly “good morning” to a much-needed “good night” after a long day exploring Yas Island ample attractions.
The 499 rooms and suites come in various categories – Wonderful, Marvelous, Spectacular, Fantastic, Fabulous and Wow – are representative of their names, offering a sleek yet comfortable place to relax and unwind. Furnished in brilliant whites with minimal splashes of colour, rooms take on the feeling of a futuristic spaceship, where draws pop out with a gentle touch and plush beds offer a cosy nights sleep. Oversized wet rooms and deep bathtubs complete the accommodation. As charming as the rooms may be, the spacious balconies with either track or marina views have to be seen to be believed.
A stay at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island is all about soaking up the lively atmosphere of this lifestyle hotel and there is plenty to explore throughout the property. Head to the roof and enjoy the pulsating beats and chilled vibe of the WET Deck, where you can enjoy refreshing beverages, take a dip in the pool and listen to the beats from resident DJ’s. While the WET Deck is adults-only, the sun deck offers a more restrained poolside experience ideal for families and those looking to top up their tans on the expansive terrace. For wellness enthusiasts, you can sweat it out at the fully-equipped FIT gym or get your glow on at The Spa.
W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island is also home to a plethora of dining options, including Roastery, where you can enjoy a morning coffee and pastry and W Lounge, which offers a chic environment to enjoy sundowners overlooking the track or for partying late into the night. Garage, the winner of ‘favourite newcomer’ at the FACT Dining Awards 2020, is one for culinary gourmands. We spend much of our stay munching through dim sum, sushi, and divine pies for dessert. Garage redefines the notion of an all-day dining restaurant with its atmospheric surrounds, beautiful decor and an a la carte menu that aims to please.
As much as this five-star hotel is a lifestyle hub on Abu Dhabi’s adventure island, it would be easy to spend an entire stay enjoying everything the property has to offer. But with so much on your doorstep, you wouldn’t want to miss dipping your toes in the ocean at Yas Beach, some retail therapy at Yas Mall, scaling the world’s tallest indoor climbing wall or CLYMB or enjoying the exhilarating thrills of a driving experience on Yas Marina Circuit.
For families, a trio of theme park experiences await. The world’s first Ferrari branded theme park, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is home to 37 rides and attractions, including the world’s fastest rollercoaster, go-karting track, children’s driving school and shows that bring the Ferrari brand to life.
The island is also home to Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of their favourite movies. Buckle up and fly through the night skies of Gotham City on Batman: Knight Flight, rock, spin and twist your way through The Riddler Revolution, or prepare to get soaked when navigating The Flintstones Bedrock River Adventure.
Finally, there’s Yas Waterworld with its 40 rip-roaring rides, slithering slides and exciting attractions. Relax upon the beach at Amwaj and jump into the water to enjoy the regions largest wave pool with four unique wave patterns. The Liwa Loop is the first freefall drop waterslide in the region for those searching for heart-pounding thrills, while Falcons Falaj provides an adrenaline rush on the world’s longest mammoth six-seater water coaster.
No matter what you are after, Yas Island offers leisure and entertainment options aplenty and with W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island as a base to enjoy everything the island has to offer, you’ll be in excellent hands.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for reservations and more information.
