Hotel Hotspot: The WB Abu Dhabi

SPONSORED: FACT checks into the world’s first Warner Bros. themed hotel on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island.

If your childhood fantasy of staying at a theme park deep into the night remains unfulfilled, listen up because the world’s first Warner Bros. hotel is now open mere steps away from the Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi theme park on Yas Island. 

The WB Abu Dhabi features 257 rooms over seven levels, with modern décor that celebrates Warner Bros.’ extensive film and television library, including Blade Runner, Westworld and The Looney Tunes. 

Guests will be immersed in the world of cinema from the moment they arrive at the hotel, greeted with the fountain and orange sofa from the opening credits of Friends. At the valet, we park up next to a replica of the Batmobile from the forthcoming Batman movie starring Robert Pattinson before we are greeted warmly by Tom and Jerry. They provide us with big hugs as we complete the check-in process. 

A monochromatic colour scheme takes hold in the lobby, reminiscent of a black and white reel of celluloid, while crafted tableaus showcasing WB’s finest characters are displayed behind the front desk. Digital screens that span the height of the building showcase original content, while a spiral staircase leads upwards through an archive of Warner Bros. memorabilia. Here guests will find an array of script pages and props from popular movies such as The Iron Giant and Man Of Steel, including Freddy Krueger’s glove from the original Nightmare On Elm Street.

Movie Magic

Each of the hotel’s 257 rooms are accessed via a keycard that resembles a clapperboard and furnished with touches that tie to the legacy of rich storytelling that makes Warner Bros. unique. For example, our ‘Two Double Beds Artist Room’ looks out onto the theme park entrance and comfortably sleeps four guests, making it ideal for young families. It’s a simple yet comfortable space where comic books line shelves and mirrors are ringed with fluorescent bulbs, much like the dressing room of a Hollywood superstar. 

Three themes inspire the curated artwork in the guestrooms: ‘From Script to Screen’ (documenting the journey from the written page to the final shot), ‘Artist Confidential’ (celebrating a variety of talent in front of and behind the camera in some of Warner Bros.’ favourite productions) and ‘The Vault’ (featuring rarely seen images from Warner Bros.’ most memorable archives). We sleep comfortably upon embroidered pillows beneath a portrait of Jason Momoa in full Aquaman costume. 

At 35SQM, the simply furnished room also features a 55-inch HDTV, mini-fridge, espresso machine and floor to ceiling windows. 

All guests registered in the room have access to one Yas Island theme park per day during their stay. And because a hotel stay isn’t complete without room service, kids and families can ring up one of their favourite Looney Tunes characters for a treat brought to them by Bugs Bunny himself. Known as ‘milk & cookies’ this paid service must be pre-booked to ensure your favourite WB character is available. 

Dining

While dining in one of five restaurants on the property, you can listen as the piano from Westworld plays familiar tunes from Kanye West or Amy Winehouse. Craft Services, located in the lobby, offers a relaxing coffee break after a busy day, while those lounging by the pool can enjoy light bites and refreshments from The Matinee. 

Sidekicks is the perfect place for socialising while enjoying a menu of international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The vibrant space features fiery orange hues and an expansive international buffet spread to please adults and children alike. Seated in a comfortable leather booth or on the alfresco terrace, diners can expect a whole host of movie characters to join them for photo opportunities while they eat. Teen Titans Go!

Guests looking to indulge in an elegant dining experience can visit The Director’s Club, The WB Abu Dhabi’s signature restaurant. This stylish steakhouse features leather banquettes, a sleek bar, an open kitchen and the subtle use of props to help accentuate the idea of dining in a film studio. Cameras, studio lighting, jet black cutlery and a stylish sculpture of suspended script pages make a statement as you dine on a menu of steakhouse classics such as burrata, beef tartare and a selection of Cult Classics (brisket, beef cheek and short rib), The Hollywood Hits (USDA Certified Angus Beef and Purebred Wagyu MS5) and The Masterpiece (Japanese Beef Filet Mignon). Whatever you do, save room for the American-style Classic Apple Pie – you won’t regret it!

Finally, The Overlook offers a fabulous lounge with a relaxing infinity pool and beautiful 360-degree island, theme park and sea views. The adults-only venue is also home to the new Cloud Seven Saturday Brunch, where diners can tuck into a selection of signature sushi, teppanyaki beef and dim sums, accompanied with free-flowing beverages. 

Family Fun

When it comes to facilities, the first floor is home to a multi-functional Kids Club and pool deck. Here, guests can watch Warner Bros. movies and television shows from the comfort of the pool or plumped upon a comfortable sun lounger. There’s even a swim-up bar called Matinee with a range of refreshing beverages to ensure you can fully enjoy the magic of the silver screen.

The property’s contemporary design also includes a fully equipped spa and health club. This wellness sanctuary promotes a range of treatments, including body scrubs, facials and massages undertaken with Sothys Paris products. Of course, we couldn’t resist a couples massage, where the bed selection includes a water or sand base.

The WB Abu Dhabi’s proximity to Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is advantageous, meaning you can experience the thrills and spills within minutes of leaving your accommodation. The hotel is also within walking distance of Yas Waterworld and close to Yas Island’s other attractions and experiences, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, CLYMB Abu Dhabi and Yas Mall. 

Call it the Orlando of Yas Island (if you will) because The WB Abu Dhabi offers an entertainment experience that families will love. A unique property where the magic of the movies combines with family fun to create treasured memories.

That’s all folks!

GO: Visit www.hilton.com for reservations and more information.