Isn’t it amazing to think that the Beach Rotana beach in Abu Dhabi is part of a hotel that played a pivotal role in the city’s transformation? The Beach Rotana is more than just a luxury resort. It represents a turning point in Abu Dhabi’s history.
Back in 1993 Abu Dhabi was a different place. Theme parks and massive tourism were just dreams. The Beach Rotana, then known as the Beach Hotel, emerged as a striking new building. It stood on the waterfront in the Tourist Club area now called Al Zahiyah.
Nasser Al Nowais and Selim El Zyr envisioned a future where tourists would flock to Abu Dhabi. They established the Beach Rotana as the first Rotana hotel. Sheikh Suroor bin Mohammed backed their vision. Many questioned their decision to open a hotel in what seemed like a remote location. But they were committed to their dream.
When the Beach Rotana opened on October 10 it was the first major hotel in Abu Dhabi since the 1980s. Its design was new and modern. It quickly gained popularity. The Beach Rotana became a symbol of Abu Dhabi’s growth.
The Beach Rotana’s success was partly due to its modern rooms and dining options. Trader Vic’s which opened in 1994 became a sensation. Getting a table required a week’s wait a phenomenon unheard of in Abu Dhabi those days. Everyone wanted to experience the Polynesian-themed restaurant.
Originally the Beach Rotana was quite isolated. Empty sand stretched where the towers of Al Maryah Island stand today. The Tourist Club leisure center was still in the planning stages. Over time the Beach Rotana hosted many famous figures. Sheikh Zayed Prince Charles and Hollywood stars graced its halls.
The Beach Rotana has expanded significantly over the years. Its restaurants have been renovated. The number of rooms has quadrupled. Today Trader Vic’s occupies the space where the original reception once stood.
Rotana now operates over 100 hotels across the region. It is a remarkable local success story. The hotel landscape of Abu Dhabi has been transformed completely. In the past Abu Dhabi had only about 4000 rooms. Today there are 30000 rooms.
Building the Beach Rotana cost Dh80 million back then. Today it would cost Dh500 million. The Beach Rotana changed the city. It marked a new era alongside the Hilton and Sheraton.
The Beach Rotana boasts a 120-metre beach perfect for relaxation. Guests can enjoy two swimming pools and a gymnasium. The hotel offers twelve restaurants and bars catering to diverse tastes. For ultimate relaxation there is Zen the spa at Rotana. The Beach Rotana is connected to Abu Dhabi Mall. The Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is opposite the hotel on Al Maryah Island.
The Beach Rotana is a grand resort. It has two wings. The Beach Wing has seven floors with 286 rooms and suites. It opened in 1993. The Tower Wing has 20 floors with 128 rooms and suites. It opened in 2002.
The Beach Rotana stands as a testament to vision innovation and the spirit of Abu Dhabi. It is a place where history and luxury meet offering an unforgettable experience.