The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi,
Grand Canal
Complete with landscaped gardens, tinkling fountains and Venetian-inspired buildings, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is a relatively new offering, within a stone’s throw of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
The beach resort’s 10 interconnected buildings curve around an impressive 600-square-metre pool and with a range of cuisines from a steakhouse to Lebanese fare, you’ll be hard pressed to find a reason to leave the grounds. The beachfront ESPA is inspired by the colours, textures and metal-work of Bedouin culture. After a signature treatment you can kick back in the relaxation area surrounded by lush greenery, take a dip in the plunge pool, or head to the private beach reserved for spa guests.
Emirates Palace
For a decadent Arabian experience in the thick of the action, look no further than Emirates Palace.
The architecture and décor is fully Arabesque and the scale is overwhelmingly grand. The enormous hotel features 114 18-meter-high domes, luxury suites decorated in gold and marble, private butlers on call, and a 1.3-kilometre long private beach. You can’t help but feel like royalty here. The two swimming pools, one of which winds around pockets of greenery, are nestled within the 85 hectares of landscaped gardens. If you’d prefer to sail your mega yacht in, you can berth it at the hotel’s private marina.
Honourable mention: Qasr Al Sarab
Technically it’s not in Abu Dhabi city, but Qasr Al Sarab is the Arabia of fables. The luxury oasis is set within the legendary Liwa Desert in Abu Dhabi’s Empty Quarter, which is one of the largest uninterrupted sand deserts in the world. If you’re feeling particularly indulgent, opt for one of the villas, which come with a private plunge pool. Every room offers desert views that will give the illusion of a Nomadic exploration – in contemporary luxury. Here’s your chance to ride a camel into the horizon over sand dunes washed with the golden rays of sunset.
Whichever temporary abode you choose, you won’t be disappointed. Abu Dhabi prides itself on its international cuisine, impressive architecture, cultural heritage and welcoming Arabian hospitality.
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