Hilton appoints cluster GM for Abu Dhabi Yas Island hotels

Hilton has appointed Michael Schmitt as Cluster General Manager for three Abu Dhabi properties: Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton and DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Residences. The role brings nearly 1,000 keys across the group’s Yas Island portfolio under his leadership.

With more than two decades of international hospitality experience, Schmitt has worked across major markets in Asia and Australia, holding senior leadership roles at hotels such as Waldorf Astoria Chengdu and Conrad Xiamen in China. No stranger to the Hilton brand, he previously also led operations at Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa in Thailand and Hilton Adelaide.

Schmitt specialises in luxury property openings, strategic repositioning and performance management across diverse markets. He has also earned industry recognition for his work, having been named Stelliers Asia General Manager of the Year in 2020. 

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In 2022, Schmitt entered the UAE market as General Manager of Conrad Dubai, where he strengthened the hotel’s position in Dubai’s luxury hospitality market. Now returning to Hilton, he will guide operations across the Yas Island cluster, overseeing a key leisure and entertainment complex in Abu Dhabi.

Commenting on his appointment, Schmitt said: “I’m delighted to take on this role at such an exciting time for Yas Island. Hilton has established a strong presence here, with three very distinct properties, each offering a unique experience for our guests.” 

Hilton continues to expand regionally, with the group set to double its EMEA portfolio to more than 200 hotels, including operational and pipeline properties. In the GCC, two new openings are scheduled for Saudi Arabia in 2026, including Conrad Riyadh Laysen Valley and Spark by Hilton in Makkah. 

For more information, visit hilton.com