The Ritz-Carlton has officially opened a new luxury Middle East resort and spa - The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal - opposite the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Spanning 230,670 sq m (57 acres), the resort consists of ten buildings arranged in a crescent formation, that feature 447 guestrooms and suites, in addition to 85 private one and two-bedroom villas.

The 2,000 sq m (21,500 sq ft) Abu Dhabi ESPA spa will open early-2014 featuring 15 private treatment rooms catering for men and women.

The stand-alone spa offers a steamroom, a hammam, a private beach and outdoor plunge pools as well as a 1,600 sq m (17,222 sq ft) outdoor swimming pool.

A hair and beauty salon will also be available as well as a fitness centre.

Inspired by 15th to early 17th century Renaissance architecture and the urban planning of the city of Venice, the property was designed by architect Otak International with interiors by Sfa Design.

Ten hotel restaurants and bars are on offer including three signature restaurants by Japanese restaurant specialist Super Potato - marking the designer's debut in the Middle East. Other options include a steak house as well as Southeast Asian, Arabic, Lebanese and Italian restaurants.

Other facilities include a 1,600sq m (17,222sq ft) outdoor swimming pool, a health club as well as a 1,550sq m (16.684sq ft) Roma Ballroom and 14 meeting rooms.

Herve Humler president of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company said: "We are delighted to open our first hotel in the United Arab Emirates capital of Abu Dhabi. Warm Arabian hospitality combined with legendary Ritz-Carlton service will create many unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for visitors from around the world."