EMIRATES PALACE, ABU DHABI, EXPANDS MARINA DINING

By Abdulla Rasheed, Abu Dhabi Editor

Original Article published at: http://bit.ly/pXhzwA

Newly-appointed general manager reveals grand plans to strengthen hotel's hold in the number one spot.

Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi will open new dining outlets in its 173-berth marina and is also set to host high-profile events like an annual yacht show and polo matches.

Abu Dhabi: Emirates Palace hotel has embarked on a project to add a number of dining outlets in its marina which features 173 berths, a top official said.

"We are currently developing the entire area around the marina where we will eventually have several dining outlets, shops, and a new ballroom. We are currently in the final stages of finalising plans to open an Emirates Palace yacht club at the marina, as well as a large fitness centre," Bugra Berberoglu, the newly appointed general manager of Emirates Palace, told Gulf News in an exclusive interview.

"Since we've just opened the marina and development is ongoing, we are offering fantastic opportunities for the marine leisure community in the way of special promotions.

Since he arrived five weeks ago, Berberoglu and his team have been working on several new projects for the hotel, which will be announced in the coming months.

"Our aim is to confirm that we are the number one hotel in the world. In order to do that we will work continuously to improve ourselves and to innovate, by offering ongoing training to all staff, reviewing our food and beverage offerings regularly, and expanding our leisure facilities," he said.

"Since our opening in 2005, we have established superior standards for the hotel industry in Abu Dhabi and the wider region. As Abu Dhabi continues to grow we will strive to maintain our number one spot in the capital by continuing to invest in our staff and developing innovative offerings so that we are always providing the best services internationally."

Speaking about new activities planned for the coming months, he mentioned several events: "We're looking to finalise an annual Emirates Palace Yacht Show, held at our marina. We have signed a letter of intent with a well-known polo company to host Kempinski's first traditional polo event in Abu Dhabi and we're hoping to host the first annual polo game in Abu Dhabi, early next year."

"As part of our commitment to culture, we are also working on bringing incredible art to Abu Dhabi. We are planning two special exhibitions in the next year, one featuring hanging statues and another that will showcase works by renowned painters from around the world, including mural art." He explained.

Speaking about the relationship between the hotel and the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (Adta) he said: "We maintain an important strategic partnerships with Adta, and Etihad Airlines, and I believe that together, through the leadership of Adta, we will ensure the development of a sustainable tourism industry in the city of Abu Dhabi."

Berberoglu added "There are many new hotels being built in Abu Dhabi, and through the excellent management of Adta and the growth of Etihad Airlines, Abu Dhabi will be one of the best destinations worldwide."

"The second half of 2011 will offer many exciting occasions for our guests," he said.

"We are looking forward to the upcoming art exhibitions, classical music concerts, ballet performances, and much more. Our special events have been always a great success and we continue to see growing demand from the local community for remarkable cultural offerings. We are proud to serve as an icon for the city and a symbol of its warm hospitality," he said.