Abu Dhabi is so spectacular, you might think it’s a mirage. You can be atop a camel galloping through the desert one minute and shopping at some of the world’s most high-end stores the next. You can ride a traditional abra boat in the morning, then race an Aston Martin around a Formula One track that afternoon. You can marvel at the design of futuristic buildings like the Yas Viceroy juxtaposed against centuries-old structures like Qasr al-Husn.
West Corniche
Built as an iconic landmark showcasing Arabian culture at its finest, Emirates Palace has created an enviable niche in luxury hospitality. Situated on 1.3 km of private beach and 85 hectares of gardens and lawns, Emirates Palace comprises 394 rooms and suites carefully designed and furnished to offer guests superior comfort and luxury. With spectacular views of the manicured lawns or the glistening blue waves of the Arabian Sea, every room promises a palatial experience.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, and one lunch or dinner for up to two people per room).
A VIRTUOSO PREFERRED PARTNER
Etihad Towers
Great location and modern amenities. Originally this was a Jumeirah when I had my stay here, is now a Conrad. Many good dining options and a full bar on the roof.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, and one lunch or dinner for up to two people per room).
Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers Website
ONE OF MY HILTON IMPRESARIO PARTNER HOTELS
Al Bateen Marina
Essentially in the main business district. EDITION offer a great balance of high comfort and practicality.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, and one lunch or dinner for up to two people per room).
ONE OF MY MARRIOTT PREFERRED PARTNER HOTELS
Saadiyat Island
A great beachside resort while still being quite close to the downtown section. Lovely modern design by DBI Design out of Australia.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, and one lunch or dinner for up to two people per room).
PART OF MY JUMEIRAH PASSPORT TO LUXURY PARTNERSHIP
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi
Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Four Seasons Abu Dhabi
outskirts of Abu Dhabi
This is a convenient way to see the desert for those who may be pressed for time. Very good dining options, spa and desert activities offered.
Originally managed by Jumeirah, now a member of the Marriott Luxury Collection.
Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa Website
ONE OF MY MARRIOTT PREFERRED PARTNER HOTELS
Deep Desert / Abu Dhabi’s Empty Quarter
Ideal resort for deep desert activities with luxurious settings. Located in the legendary Liwa Desert, one of the largest uninterrupted sand deserts in the world, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara embraces the epic adventures of this evocative landscape by providing a luxury oasis. Every room, villa and suite is considered to be some of the finest abodes among luxury Abu Dhabi resorts and features desert views, blending our rich interiors with the landscape.
A VIRTUOSO PREFERRED PARTNER
My first trip to Abu Dhabi, I went primarily to compare the new Louvre to the original, since I was arriving from Paris. Though, no where near as large as Paris, I rather prefer the Abu Dhabi location. Abu Dhabi Loure has the feels of a curated museum rather than a warehouse of art. Worth a trip to Abu Dhabi to visit this excellent Art Space.
Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), consists of six off-road driving route maps covering Abu Dhabi, AlDhafrah and Al Ain, which people can follow to embark on desert camping and desert safari experiences in their own vehicles. A great way to explore the deep desert at your own pace.
Visit Abu Dhabi Official Website
My Abu Dhabi Information Page at Virtuoso
Here is a good place to start for some additional information on quality Hotels and Activities.
UAE United Arab Emirates
General Information Page
Dubai General Information Page
Need a bit of help planning a trip?
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page updated: January 2021