There are countless reasons why Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is catching up to Dubai as the region’s most exciting and enigmatic city. Rich in local traditions and beautiful Arabian culture, Abu Dhabi blends its historical heritage with contemporary development remarkably well. Jaw-dropping architecture and cutting-edge facilities stand side-by-side with old-style souks, sand dunes and even a falcon hospital.
‘Ultra All-inclusive, Activities, Private Beach’
Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island is located in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island district and is the first 'All-Inclusive, All-Exclusive' concept in Abu Dhabi. This Rixos Hotel offers live entertainment, onsite activities, a private beach, spa and tennis courts. Some rooms and villas have access to pools and the kids waterpark, and there are a wide variety of restaurants on-site serving Turkish dishes, Greek and Mediterranean dishes, Italian dishes and Asian dishes. There are many attractions close by, including Ferrari World, Warner Bros and Qasr Al-Hosn. Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island now includes Club Privé by Rixos, a private sanctuary made up of a variety of highly exclusive villas. Enjoy round-the-clock butler service and ultimate relaxation in villas located by the lavish shared pool or with their own private pools.
‘Heart of Abu Dhabi – Landscaped Gardens and Pools’
Set on Abu Dhabi's Corniche, Emirates Palace combines traditional opulence with contemporary design. The hotel has its own private beach and marina and rooms and suites have a garden or ocean view. The hotel has two pools, the Adventure Pool has a lazy river and cascading waterfalls. The east wing pool has a pool bar, hot tub and adults-only hammocks for those looking to relax in a quiet environment. The Emirates Palace Spa has a traditional Moroccan hammam, two Jacuzzis, two steam rooms and an ice cave. There are over 10 restaurants and bars, with cuisine ranging from Italian specialties to Middle-Eastern delights.
‘Graceful and Stylish – Beach Front Location’
Situated on a private beach on Saadiyat Island, this St Regis Resort is downtown from Abu Dhabi. As well as the beach, there are three outdoor pools including a family and adults-only pool. The ‘Athletic Club’ features an indoor pool, gym, two tennis courts, and two squash courts, and offers studio classes as well as personal training sessions. Enjoy a sauna, steam room, Experience Shower and a Jacuzzi in the on-site spa. Dining venues, of which there are 6, include Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi, a day-to-night destination, and Sontaya, which serves Southeast Asian foods on floating pavilions.
'Architectural Landmark Offering Lavish Stays in the City'
Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi Resort is a striking fusion of contemporary luxury and traditional Arabian elegance, set along the iconic Corniche with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. This all-inclusive urban resort offers a vibrant escape with its private beach, lavish spa, multiple pools, and a diverse selection of dining and entertainment options. Families and couples alike can enjoy everything from international DJ nights and immersive kids’ activities to Turkish-inspired wellness experiences. Perfectly positioned in the heart of the city, it’s an ideal base for both indulgent relaxation and dynamic exploration.
‘Island Life – Natural Beauty’
Jumeirah Saadiyat Island offers a peaceful beachfront sanctuary on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, set along 400 metres of protected white sandy beach where hawksbill turtles nest. With 293 contemporary rooms, suites and private villas - many featuring floor-to-ceiling glass walls and sea views - guests enjoy world-class spa facilities with a Moroccan-hammam, and three infinity pools overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Dining is exceptional and varied, from Mediterranean-Italian at Mare Mare to authentic Levantine at Tean and theatrical international fare at White, with a beachfront lifestyle ambience. Committed to sustainability - from eliminating single-use plastics to turtle conservation - the resort blends refined luxury with eco-conscious island living, all within a short drive of culture-rich landmarks like Louvre Abu Dhabi.
‘Desert Sanctuary’
Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi, is a five-star retreat located in the Arabian desert, 40 miles south-east of Abu Dhabi. Designed to look like a traditional Bedouin village, the 99 guest rooms, suites and villas have private balconies and many have views across the desert. The resort features a swimming pool, gym and Saray Spa. An array of activities are on offer, including a Fat Bike dune adventure, wildlife exploration, and archery. At the heart of the resort the central square, which is bordered by restaurants, bars, and shops. When you want to indulge with amazing food, Middle Eastern and Italian dishes are on offer.
Blending opulence with authentic Arabian desert charm
Amar Luxury Desert Lodge is an exclusive eco-retreat nestled within the whispering dunes of Al Mu'tarad, perfectly positioned between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where Arabian heritage meets contemporary refinement. Reimagining the desert escape, Amar embodies a rare harmony of elegance, authenticity, and sustainability, offering a haven of tranquillity for the discerning traveller.
Inspired by the ethereal beauty of the desert under moonlight, Amar (meaning "moon" in Arabic) invites guests into an immersive world where nature and luxury entwine. Gently flickering lanterns cast a golden glow over opulent, Bedouin-inspired tents, each thoughtfully designed to elevate desert living into a realm of effortless indulgence.
At the heart of this serene sanctuary lies Dar al Amar ("home of the moon") a destination dining experience that captivates both palate and soul. Here, regionally inspired cuisine is masterfully curated and served beneath the stars, framed by sweeping views of the open dunes and wrapped in an atmosphere of understated sophistication.
Rooted in Arabian tradition yet attuned to modern sensibilities, Amar and Dar al Amar offer more than just a stay—they offer a soulful journey. It’s a place to pause, reconnect, and be captivated by the enduring magic of the desert. A truly distinguished addition to any Middle Eastern itinerary.
'Greek Island Inspired - Adult Only Haven'
Immerse yourself in unparalleled luxury at the Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat, this hideaway offers 22 sea-view rooms halfway between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This Greek-island-inspired oasis boasts an on-site spa, two restaurants, and an adult-only atmosphere, all just 25 minutes from Al Maktoum International Airport.
'City Skyline and Arabian Gulf Views From This 74-Storey Hotel'
Experience luxury from great heights at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers Hotel. This hotel boasts dramatic architecture and an excellent location near the Presidential Palace and Marina Mall. The hotel suites tower above Abu Dhabi with floor-to-ceiling windows and incredible views of the city skyline and Arabian Gulf, as well as being spacious and elegantly decorated. The hotel has 11 restaurants and bars to choose from, including Ray's Grill - situated on the 63rd floor with panoramic city views, Li Beirut - artistically curated Lebanese dishes with sea views from the terrace, and Rosewater - an award-winning collaboration of mouth-watering, worldwide-favourites with alfresco dining and views of the sea. If you're looking to relax you'll be glad to know the Conrad Spa Etihad Towers, has 13 private treatment rooms, steam rooms and a Hammam chamber. Or simply relax on the soft sands of the hotel's sandy beach, or by one of their three outdoor pools. The highlight of this hotel has to be the observation deck on the 74th floor, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Abu Dhabi.