From a sleepy fishing village to one of the most futuristic cities, Abu Dhabi has come a long way. The capital of the United Arab Emirates is now a hub of culture, innovation and, most importantly, tourism. Over the years, Abu Dhabi has emerged as the go-to destination amongst both business and leisure travellers. If you’ve already been to the city or even just read about it, you’ll know that Abu Dhabi is all about doing things in style.
The city is lined with many high-end hotels, so a trip to Abu Dhabi means that world-class luxury is always at your doorstep. From urban business hotels to authentic luxury desert resorts, there’s something to appease every luxe-loving traveller. Sound good to you? You might want to start planning a trip to Abu Dhabi!
Here are seven of the city’s best luxury hotels which treat guests like royalty:
1. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Ideal for: This upmarket resort is tailor-made for people who want to experience the magical Liwa Desert and all the exciting desert activities it has to offer–without giving up any modern luxuries.
What’s so special: No trip to Abu Dhabi is complete without embarking on a desert adventure. Located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi in the enchanting Rub Al’ Khali desert – also known as the Empty Quarter, the largest uninterrupted sand desert in the world – Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara takes the idea of a desert holiday to the next level, combining luxury and heritage in a surreally stunning setting. The property boasts 160 modern rooms, suites and villas that offer scintillating views of rolling, golden dunes. While you’re there, sign up for an excursion or two, including sandboarding, desert biking, camel trekking and more.
Key facilities: Swimming pool, tennis court, fitness centre, library, spa
2. The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
Ideal for: The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is perfect for both family and business travellers.
What’s so special: Blending traditional Arabian hospitality and modern luxury, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is one of the UAE capital’s most recognised hotels. This stunning property enjoys a central location and is a great base if you’re looking to visit the city’s popular tourist attractions. Each of the 283 rooms come with a private, on-call butler, a signature service that’s bound to make you feel like royalty. The hotel is also connected to the high-end boutique retail destination Nation Galleria, so upmarket shopping and entertainment are only a few steps away.
Key facilities: Beach access, rooftop dining, nightclub, 24/7 butler service
3. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
Ideal for: This property is an urban resort in its truest sense, and is perfect for families. The Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers hotel always boasts impressive dining options, which also makes it a great choice for people who take their food seriously.
What’s so special: Piercing the Abu Dhabi skyline, the Etihad Towers complex is a major city landmark. Comprising five skyscrapers, it’s a one-stop spot for opulent stays, high-end shopping and fine dining. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers hotel is a multi-award-winning property with 382 tasteful rooms and suites housing artwork and memorabilia from a Sheikh’s private collection. With more than ten on-site restaurants and bars, a stay at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers hotel promises a gastronomical adventure – so make sure you’re not on a diet!
Key facilities: Private beach, salon, observation deck, spa, babysitters
4. Emirates Palace
Ideal for: Emirates Palace is a great option if you are looking to experience authentic Abu Dhabi culture and hospitality, or are simply seeking world-class luxury.
What’s so special: Managed by the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, the Emirates Palace hotel exudes luxury from the moment you drive through its grand, gilded gates. Interestingly, the palace is spread over a kilometre, making it larger than Buckingham Palace. The architecture incorporates key elements of Islamic style, with the structure being surrounded by vast, lush gardens. Featuring gold-plated domes, chandeliers housing precious stones, and room keys shaped like gold coins, this hotel is heaven for travellers who absolutely cannot do without luxury.
Key facilities: Meeting rooms, helipad, spa, ballroom, private beach
5. Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi
Ideal for: If you’re a business traveller heading to the UAE capital and looking for a plush beachside stay, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi deserves all your attention.
What’s so special: Located in the heart of Saadiyat Island, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi is a property tailor-made for business travellers visiting Abu Dhabi, although it also welcomes families. With that in mind, how about bringing your significant other and kids along with you on your next business trip? The ultra-luxury hotel offers a range of stay options–a total of 306 plush rooms, villas and suites. Owing to exclusive beach access, seaside bars and delicious seafood, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi is, quite simply, a paradise for anyone who loves staying by the sea. Not just that, guests staying at the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi also get access to Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Gary Player. Could there be any better way to unwind after a long day at work?
Key facilities: Fitness centre, spa, room service, golf course
6. The Abu Dhabi EDITION
Ideal for: The Abu Dhabi EDITION is tailor-made for travellers who like to pamper themselves surrounded by state-of-the-art, modern amenities.
What’s so special: Ever since its opening in 2018, The Abu Dhabi EDITION has taken the city by storm. This ultra-luxury property is the brainchild of Ian Schrager, a pioneer in the world of boutique hotels. The Abu Dhabi EDITION boasts 198 rooms and suites, and 57 long-term residences, all exuding a simple-yet-chic vibe. The hotel’s cutting-edge architectural style, plush interiors and warm hospitality come together to create a property worth visiting.
Key facilities: Wellness programmes, poolside bar, gym, meeting studios, boardroom
7. W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
Ideal for: If you’re a motorsports enthusiast, W Abu Dhabi is perfect for you – especially if you’re planning your trip around the annual Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
What’s so special: A one-of-its-kind concept property, Yas Island’s W Abu Dhabi is the only hotel in the world that’s built over a Grand Prix race track. Thanks to its prime track-side location, every corner of W Abu Dhabi exudes electric energy. The rooms at W Abu Dhabi come with floor-to-ceiling windows offering uninterrupted views of the race track, so you are always at the centre of the action during races. If you’re looking to go all out, book yourself a stay in the 409-square-metre Extreme WOW (EWOW) suite. With facilities like a private lap pool overlooking the circuit, a sauna, and 180-degree views of Yas Island, this duplex suite redefines the meaning of luxury.
Key facilities: Outdoor meeting terraces, fitness centre, spa, multi-cuisine restaurants
Have you experienced warm Arabian hospitality in Abu Dhabi already? What was it like? Share your experiences in the comments section below, or click here to tell us your story and earn Tripoto Credits.
In association with the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi
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