TDIC showcases its projects at 2012 Volvo Ocean Race

Abu Dhabi, Jan 3, 2011 (WAM) - Tourism Development '&' Investment Company (TDIC) is participating in this year's Volvo Ocean Race; this is the first time that the Middle East has formed part of the race route in the event's 37-year history and the Abu Dhabi leg is organised by Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA). TDIC's marquee, which showcases the variety of the company's operational properties and residential offerings, is located within the Destination Village - a 55,000 square metre purpose-built space that features exhibitions and entertainment. The village is expected to host more than 100,000 visitors during the event. At the marquee, visitors will be able to learn more about TDIC's various projects, which are located in Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat and the Western Region. The company's portfolio includes properties that are managed by some of the world's best hospitality brands, many of which became operational in 2011, helping to place the capital as a distinct international destination. Among the projects on display is The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, which is the official host hotel for the event, as well as The Residences at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, which consists of villas and apartments, and brings with it a legacy of impeccable service. Other projects on Saadiyat include the Saadiyat Beach Villas, which offers three different styles of villas - Mediterranean, Contemporary and Arabian - and is set to become Abu Dhabi's ultimate residential destination; the Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat; Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, by Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH); Saadiyat Beach Golf Club; Manarat Al Saadiyat; and the UAE Pavilion, which is a landmark exhibition and event venue hosting some of the UAE's most important cultural functions. The Abu Dhabi Golf Club, The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort '&' Spa, Eastern Mangroves and many other projects that are located in Abu Dhabi are also featured. Western Region properties include the award-winning Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara and Desert Islands Resort '&' Spa by Anantara. Ahmed Al Fahim, Executive Director of Communications, Marketing, and Sales '&' Leasing, said: "Abu Dhabi has strategically attracted a first-class portfolio of unique hospitality brands that cater to a variety of international and domestic travellers. With the staging of the Volvo Ocean Race and the opening of many new venues, along with the attraction of the desert culture and beach lifestyle, Abu Dhabi has become an increasingly appealing destination, and TDIC is proud to be playing a part in creating this experience." The Volvo Ocean Race is a yacht race that is held around the world every three years and which reaches a cumulative TV audience of two billion worldwide. The racing teams will arrive in Abu Dhabi on the 4th of January, after completing their second leg from Cape Town, and will remain in the country until the 14th of January, when the third leg of the race to Sanya, China commences. The Destination Village is located at the Abu Dhabi Corniche breakwater and is also open until the 14th of January, 2012. Entry is free of charge and opening times are from 11am to 11pm daily. - Emirates News Agency, WAM