Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers stands as a dramatic sculptural landmark on the UAE’s capital’s skyline. Offering a blend of 377 luxury rooms and 199 serviced residences, the property has solidified its reputation as a premier destination for both global travellers and the local community.
TTN sat down with General Manager Savino Leone to discuss how the hotel maintains its Forbes Five-Star status while evolving for the next generation of luxury guests.
TTN: Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is an iconic landmark in a very competitive luxury landscape. How are you positioning this property to differentiate itself from other luxury offerings along the Corniche?
Savino Leone: "Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is more than a landmark; it is a symbol of modern Abu Dhabi. Our differentiation lies in our ability to transform iconic architecture into deeply personal, emotionally resonant experiences. Every touchpoint is curated with intention, blending bold design, panoramic views and intuitive service that anticipates rather than responds.
What truly sets us apart is our ability to connect guests to the spirit of the destination; from world-class dining to bespoke moments that feel unmistakably Conrad. We don’t simply offer luxury; we offer a sense of belonging, individuality and a place that lingers long after departure."
TTN: With travel patterns evolving rapidly, what does the current visitor demographic look like, and which emerging international markets are you targeting for growth?
Savino Leone: "Our guest profile reflects the global stature of the property. We welcome a sophisticated mix of travellers from the Middle East, Europe and Asia, united by a desire for meaningful luxury and authentic experiences. Looking ahead, we see strong momentum from high-net-worth travellers in India, China and Southeast Asia.
These markets are increasingly drawn to destinations that balance refinement with cultural depth. Over the next 12 months, our focus is on strengthening our presence in India and China, where discerning travellers are seeking iconic hotels that deliver both prestige and personalisation."
TTN: Sustainability is a major focus for Hilton. What specific, measurable measures have you implemented that also enhance the guest experience?
Savino Leone: "Sustainability at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is seamlessly woven into the luxury experience.
In our kitchens, we have implemented the Winnow food waste intelligence system, allowing chefs to track waste in real time and refine menu planning, reducing avoidable food waste while encouraging mindful guest consumption during buffet experiences. In our guestrooms, the soap gets recycled through our Unisoap partnership, giving partially used soaps a second life through community redistribution programs.
Our chefs also utilise a hydroponic herb garden on property, meaning ingredients served are ‘plot to plate’. These initiatives align with Hilton’s global sustainability goals while resonating with today’s conscious luxury traveller, guests who value impact as much as indulgence."
TTN: The hotel boasts over 12 award-winning restaurants. How are you ensuring your F&B outlets remain top-of-mind for both guests and the local community?
Savino Leone: "With more than 12 award-winning restaurants, our culinary portfolio is a destination in its own right. We continuously evolve our offerings through innovation, storytelling and experience-led dining. From seasonal collaborations and chef-led tasting menus to immersive pop-ups and curated events, each outlet offers a distinct identity while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
By engaging both hotel guests and the local Abu Dhabi community, we ensure our restaurants remain vibrant, relevant and highly sought after."
TTN: Can you highlight a recent high-profile event and explain how you are upgrading your MICE facilities to attract larger international conferences?
Savino Leone: "We recently had the privilege of hosting the Forbes ME Top Investors Summit, welcoming influential global leaders and decision-makers. This event exemplified our capability to deliver large-scale, high-profile gatherings with precision, discretion and elegance.
To further strengthen our MICE offering, we are investing in advanced technology, adaptable venues and enhanced service flows.
Our focus is not only on infrastructure, but on crafting meetings that feel effortless, inspiring and impeccably executed; where business and experience intersect seamlessly."
TTN: Looking ahead, what is your primary strategic goal and what major investments can the industry expect?
Savino Leone: "Our strategic vision is clear: to continue setting the benchmark for modern five-star luxury in Abu Dhabi.
We are committed to evolving with our guests while preserving the iconic character of the property. To support this, we are undertaking a significant refurbishment program that will enhance guestrooms, public spaces and technology, ensuring the hotel remains contemporary, inspiring, and future-ready.
This year, we are also delighted to introduce an exciting new chapter in our culinary journey with the opening of a lifestyle Chinese restaurant in partnership with the iconic Shanghai Tang."