Abu Dhabi, the second most populous city in the United Arab Emirates, is known for glamour and culture. While Dubai often overshadows it, Abu Dhabi is the capital of the country. It serves as the UAE's political, cultural, and economic center and is popular with business travelers and tourists.
Abu Dhabi is one of the richest cities in the world. It is steeped in opulence with landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest and most famous in the world. Whether you're visiting for work or with friends and family, there's a lot in Abu Dhabi to keep you occupied for weeks. There's also a long list of hotels you can choose from in the city. Most do all they can to get you to stay with them so be ready for a tough choice. Here's a list of some of the best luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi.
W Abu Dhabi
Exploring F1's Top Venue
The W Abu Dhabi is on Yas Island and features an iconic glass bird's nest facade. Co-located with the Yas Marina Circuit, it is a good option for Formula 1 fans who want the best place to stay during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. You may not find another hotel on the planet that offers such close-up views of the race cars on a purpose-built track. When F1 isn't in town, you can try out the track yourself in a GT race car.
The hotel offers luxury rooms with views of Yas Marina. Inside, you'll find a blend of modern and Arabian designs in the rooms and across the range of restaurants and lounges. Also available is a luxury spa and two rooftop pools.
The W Abu Dhabi gets extra points for being close to places like Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, all of which are on Yas Island. The hotel is also just a 10-minute drive from the Abu Dhabi International Airport.
Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
The Conrad Abu Dhabi is in the Etihad Towers and offers views of the sea from the rooms and suites. With 12 restaurants and bars, a full spa with 13 treatment rooms, three outdoor pools, and a private beach, you couldn't ask for anything better. But this is Abu Dhabi, and the bar is high.
Each of the 377 rooms and suites features lifestyle tech, 24-hour room service, and stunning design features to make your stay a truly unforgettable one.
Level 45 offers the ultimate luxe option for guests who want nothing but the best. These rooms and suites offer first-class services, panoramic views, and great leisure and business facilities. For the best views in the house, head over to the Observation Deck at 300, where you'll see panoramas of the Abu Dhabi skyline, the Corniche, and the Arabian Gulf.
If you plan to stay for a while, explore the available apartments instead of the hotel rooms and suites.
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is the epitome of luxury and is known to be the most expensive hotel in the city. So, what do you get in return? Along with its imposing Arabian palace look, each of the resort's many rooms and suites is furnished to the highest standard and offers a 24-hour butler service.
The hotel has eight restaurants, a beautiful spa, two swimming pools, a private beach, and a private marina. The marina, which shares its name with the hotel is a superyacht haven and offers what may be the most exclusive mooring facility in the UAE.
A short distance from key Abu Dhabi tourist attractions like Qasr Al Watan Presidential Palace and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, it's safe to say a stay in the city cannot be any better than one at this hotel.
Fast and Furious fans will remember the building from the Abu Dhabi scenes in Furious 7, where the hotel's grand exterior and beachfront were displayed in their full glory.
Andaz Capital Gate Hotel
You could argue that the UAE is the country with the largest number of unique high-rise buildings. Because of this, it may be pointless to claim that one structure is the best of them all. However, the Capital Gate building housing the Andaz makes a strong case.
The iconic structure, which leans 18 degrees, is nestled in the perfect spot just 15 minutes from the airport. It is also close to the world-class Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, which makes it ideal for business travelers as the center offers event spaces to host large conferences and meetings.
With elegantly designed stately rooms and suites on offer, the hotel truly immerses you in the culture and lifestyle of the area. With a fitness center, outdoor pool, spa, and many bars and restaurants, you're spoilt for choice when staying here.
The St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
Located on Saadiyat Island, an island in Abu Dhabi known as the leading beach destination in the Middle East, St Regis Saadiyat Island is a world-class beach resort. Not to be mistaken for the St Regis Hotel on Corniche Street, it overlooks the clear waters of the cerulean Arabian Gulf and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. This makes it the ideal spot if you're a golf fan and love sea views. Few things can match playing golf next to the views of a large body of water.
The design here is more traditional and exudes luxury and comfort in all areas of the hotel. You can dine in six restaurants, head to the spa, and visit the athletic club and golf course. The best experience here is at the Royal Suite, a nicely decorated duplex on the upper part of the hotel. The suite has amenities fit for royalty.
Also seize the opportunity to explore Saadiyat Island. The Island's most popular attraction is the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which is close to the resort so you can walk over. But feel free to take luxury transportation instead. After all, you're on vacation.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
If you're looking to live out a desert living fantasy, the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort is the place to do it. The resort offers a truly unique place where you can immerse yourself in the 'Spirit of Arabia.' Situated on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi in Rub'al Khali (the Empty Quarter), it offers an oasis where you can relax away from any sort of city life.
However, don't let the sound of desert living fool you into thinking this can't be a luxury experience. This Anantara Group owned 140-room and 14-suite property offers all you'll expect from a 5-star resort. You can select from luxurious rooms and suites or choose to stay in one of the villas close to the main resort's location. In addition, dining choices include cosmopolitan options despite the remote location.
Beyond the top-notch rooms and services, you can enjoy a host of desert adventures here including camelback tours as well as a range of Moroccan hammam and desert spa activities.
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri
The Shangri-La is a brand known for contemporary luxury, and the Qaryat Al Beri Resort is no different. Situated between lush gardens and a 1-kilometer-long private beach in Mussafah, it offers a calming oasis you won't ever want to leave. This place also offers a great view of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on the other side of the water. There are 213 rooms and opulent suites, in addition to 160 serviced apartments all of which are furnished with all you need to have a memorable stay.
Similar to the Qasr Al Sarab resort, the hotel also offers villas for those who value the more space and privacy. Sit on your balcony and soak up the views before heading to their spa for a treatment and massage. There are many restaurants and bars to make the most of as well as Shangri-La's exemplary service.
Other perks include amazing artificial waterways you can take a boat ride on for an Arabian version of a Venice gondola ride and private outdoor dining setups.
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel
The Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi is an award-winning beach resort that offers an experience you won't forget. From lounging on the pristine shores of Saadiyat Island to adventuring on the Arabian desert, you can make what you want of your visit here. There are stunning views from all balconies and terraces, one of the largest swimming pools in the city, a child-friendly pool, golf course, spa, fitness center, and a kids club.
Not to be outdone by some of the hotels on this list, the Park Hyatt also offers villas with at least one private pool to ensure that guests who prefer maximum privacy don't miss out on any of the great amenities on offer.
The hotel has a good list of dining options with some of the best restaurants in the city to cement its impressive list of guest services.
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
The Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal features 504 luxury rooms and suites and 11 Rabdan villas. The hotel's design is inspired by the 15th to 17th-century renaissance architecture. There's also an obvious Venetian theme across various parts of the hotel including some of the rooms and suites.
Built directly opposite the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the hotel is an excellent choice for those who wish to spend a lot of time exploring the Abu Dhabi landmark. Guests can also enjoy the sunset views of the mosque from the hotel grounds. On the other side of the hotel, guests can enjoy a private beach directly in front of the impeccably designed pool area.
In addition to offering cosmopolitan dining options, the hotel has a hydroponic farm which provides pesticide-free fresh produce and reduces the hotel's carbon footprint.
Abu Dhabi Edition
The first thing that strikes you about The Edition Hotel is its exterior design. Located on the waterfront of Al Bateen Marina, the exoskeleton-like structure offers an alluring contemporary look, extending into the hotel's interior. The rooms are tastefully finished with neutral hues and an understated interior design to ensure universal appeal. The most eye-catching design choice is the basket-making-inspired herringbone patterned flooring. The hotel's suites are decorated with photography of sand dunes by Brett Weston to showcase Abu Dhabi's link with the desert.
The hotel has a total of 198 rooms and 57 serviced residences. Dining options include three signature restaurants, a three-story social space, a pool bar, and a lobby bar. Business travelers will be happy to note that the hotel has over 900 square meters of event and meeting space available.
Frequently Asked Questions about Abu Dhabi
Which area of Abu Dhabi is best to stay in?
We recommend staying on Saadiyat Island, which was developed with a focus on tourism. It is home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, and several beautiful beachfront resorts.
What is Abu Dhabi's most expensive hotel?
The most expensive hotel in Abu Dhabi is the Emirates Palace Hotel. An iconic five-star establishment, it's well known for its service and awe-inspiring design. It is an architectural masterpiece that incorporates marble and gold leaf - a nod towards the incredible design and luxury the UAE is known for.
How is Abu Dhabi different from Dubai?
While they both share many similarities, there are a few main differences. Dubai is more tourist-centric and includes places such as the Burj Khalifa - the tallest building in the world, luxury shopping malls, and a vibrant nightlife.
Abu Dhabi, on the other hand, is more relaxed and offers a richer cultural experience. Abu Dhabi is larger in terms of land but has a smaller population. Regarding infrastructure, Dubai is known for rapid and bold projects focusing on contemporary design. Abu Dhabi, on the other hand, has a more even balance of modern and traditional design.
Which is more beautiful, Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Both cities are steeped in their own unique charm and offer differing views and experiences. Dubai is well known for its futuristic stance, with iconic glass facades and towering contemporary buildings. It has a vibrant nightlife and a range of attractions such as the Dubai Fountain and Dubai Marina.
Abu Dhabi tends to marry contemporary and traditional culture together for a more varied appearance. However, there's still an abundance of lavish and opulent buildings here with unique architecture.
Can you drink alcohol in Abu Dhabi?
When considering a trip to the UAE, you might be wondering if you're allowed to drink alcohol. The answer to this is yes, but there are specific laws, regulations, and restrictions that you need to follow. Remember to adhere to the Islamic Law and cultural norms in Abu Dhabi and respect the locals. Alcohol is only available in licensed venues, and this tends to be in hotels, bars, and clubs.
The drinking age is 21, and you're only allowed to consume alcohol in designated areas. If you are in possession of alcohol in a public place or consume it somewhere you're not allowed, you might face a fine.
Can a woman wear pants in Abu Dhabi?
Women can wear pants in Abu Dhabi. You need to note that other items that aren't considered modest would be significantly frowned upon, and as such, you need to be aware of the local laws and customs. Ladies' clothing should cover the shoulders, chest, and knees, and anything tight or revealing should be avoided. During religious events or in certain areas, you'll want clothes covering as much skin as possible, such as long skirts and sleeves or loose-fitting pants.
When at the beach or swimming pool, swim attire is acceptable, but when leaving these areas, you'll need to cover up. Places like hotels and resorts might offer more relaxed dress codes, allowing you to wear shorts and sundresses.
