Rocco Forte Hotels has confirmed that its new flagship Middle East property in Abu Dhabi - the first to bear the name of the group's chair and CEO - is to open by the fourth quarter of 2011.

The 281-bedroom Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi will offer one of the emirate state's largest spas, covering 2,000sq m (21,528sq ft) and offering separate facilities for men and women. Facilities at the hotel's spa will comprise 15 treatment rooms, two of which will be double - one with a Vichy shower - and five Hammam treatment rooms.

A Moroccan Hammam; a sauna; a whirlpool; an indoor plunge pool; a steamroom; a gym; relaxation areas; a 25m outdoor pool; and a 10m children's pool are also proposed. Rocco Forte Hotels is working in partnership with Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC) and Al Farida Investments Company to develop the new property.

The design of the Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi features a 10-storey wave-shaped tower with a blue and green glass façade, and will be surrounded by public gardens. Rocco Forte said: "In response to existing client demand, we believe the Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi will be a compelling destination for such guests.

"Abu Dhabi is fast emerging as a hub for the Middle East and we are confident that our flagship hotel in the Emirate will set the tone for our planned expansion in the Middle East."