Tsogo Sun, the leading hotel group in Africa with a portfolio of more than 90 hotels, enters the UAE’s capital with its new property, Southern Sun Abu Dhabi, which opened its doors to both business and leisure travellers last week.

“This will be the first Southern Sun property in Abu Dhabi. With the launch of this new hotel, the group is ready to re-enter the UAE hospitality market, building on the success of its previous projects in Dubai,” said Richard Weilers, Chief Operating Officer for Tsogo Sun Hotels.

“The full-service hotel embraces a vibrant theme, with a unique combination of traditional and contemporary design elements. With spacious accommodation options, one-of-a-kind Food & Beverage outlets and Tsogo Sun’s warm and welcoming hospitality, Southern Sun Abu Dhabi makes an ideal choice for both vacationers and business executives alike,” he added.

Tsogo Sun has appointed the senior management team to oversee the various operations of the new deluxe hotel. Pierre Delfau will lead the team as General Manager, after playing a pivotal role in the hotel’s pre-opening phase. The Southern Sun veteran brings to his new role two decades of industry experience, with several years devoted to the group’s leading properties in South Africa and most recently as the General Manager of the former Southern Sun properties in Downtown Dubai, Al Manzil and Qamardeen Hotels.

Southern Sun Abu Dhabi also announced the appointment of Paul Simmons as Director of Sales and Marketing, Manish Law as Executive Chef and Adil Souate as Director of Food and Beverage.

Southern Sun Abu Dhabi is located in the emirate’s Tourist Club area and provides easy access to the city’s major landmarks, including Sheikh Khalifa Energy Complex, Saadiyat Island, Yas Island and Abu Dhabi International Airport. The property brings the same warm and welcoming standards of service that make Tsogo Sun one of the most successful hotel groups in Africa.