Abu Dhabi is one of the most extravagant destinations for travellers looking for luxury. Infinity pools, rooms made of gold, private beaches and yacht trips against the backdrop of soaring skyscrapers, this is all part of the daily decadence on offer here. You name it, Abu Dhabi will make it happen. So, if you’re thinking of exploring the limits of luxury in Abu Dhabi on your next holiday, read on.
Stay at the best luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi
As you’d expect from the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, there are many luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi. In fact, on eDreams.co.uk, you can choose between 48 (!) different 5-star hotels. To help you narrow down your search, we’re going to show you a few of these amazing places to stay. These high-class highlights come with a luxury seal of approval that’s sure to make for an unforgettable stay in Abu Dhabi.
Emirates Palace
The famous Emirates Palace is probably the most impressive and luxurious hotel in Abu Dhabi. Even if the category doesn’t officially exist yet, it is considered a 7-star hotel. It’s a place where your most-extravagant dreams can come true. The Emirates Palace has its own beach exclusively for guests, multiple large swimming pools and a fantastic spa, where you can pamper yourself with massages and body treatments. For those seeking some culinary indulgence, there are 8 in-house restaurants to choose from, each run by world-renowned chefs.
Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island
Guests also get plenty of lavishness for their money at the all-inclusive luxury hotel Rixos Premium on Saadiyat Island. The facilities are extremely extensive: spa area, swimming pools, wave pool, fitness centre and (of course) private beach! Choose the accommodation that takes your fancy from the 378 rooms and villas available.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
Also on Saadiyat Island is The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. Enjoy the private beach at this 5-star hotel, as well as the spa area where you can give your body a well-deserved treat. The sports enthusiasts will love the 25-metre indoor pool, the tennis court, and the golf course located next to the hotel grounds. Gastronomic delights are provided by the hotel’s six different restaurants.
Zaya Nurai Island Resort
Nurai Island, a small haven just off the mainland in the Arabian Gulf, is also known as the Maldives of Abu Dhabi. It’s only 15 minutes by boat from Saadiyat Island. For an extra-special experience, stay in one of the wonderful 32 villas at the Zaya Nurai Island Resort, each complete with vital air-conditioning. Guests can enjoy their private patios, pools and beaches, before fine dining at one of the 3 restaurants on offer.
Taste delicious food in the best luxury restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Yes, luxury in Abu Dhabi also includes outstanding food! If you’re a bit of a foodie then an exquisite culinary experience in the UAE is an essential part of your holiday. Fear not foodies, Abu Dhabi will satisfy your most extravagant expectations. It’s very difficult to make a shortlist, but we’ve managed to compile our picks of the top restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Just remember to book well in advance!
The Galleria Al Maryah Island is an impressive shopping complex where you’ll find the Japanese Zuma Restaurant, the perfect place to enjoy a twist on traditional Japanese dining. The menu showcases a variety of dishes from its three separate kitchens: the main kitchen, the sushi counter and the robata grill.
Also, in The Galleria, you can find Le Petit Maison. Situated directly on the promenade, you’ll enjoy stunning views across the water while you dine. We highly recommend the Chef’s Table Menu so you can enjoy the variety of dishes the kitchen has to offer.
Another truly world-class restaurant not to be missed is the Hakkasan at the Emirates Palace. It’s one of the most popular restaurants in Abu Dhabi. It was co-founded by Chef Alan Yau, a renowned Michelin star chef who has launched a number of leading culinary brands. You won’t be disappointed by his food creations!
On the 74th floor of the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, you’ll find the Observation Deck at 300. It boasts an impressive 360° view of Abu Dhabi’s striking skyline. Stop by for afternoon tea or mocktails, accompanied by light bites.
The Buddha Beach Bar at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort offers the perfect combination of delicious high-class food served in the relaxed atmosphere of a beach bar. Check out their specials, such as Nikkei Brunch or ‘‘Yuuhi’ Sundowner, to take the luxury in Abu Dhabi to another level.
Experience exclusive activities
If you’re looking to combine the sun, sand and luxury of a private beach, with some unique cultural activities that you can’t experience anywhere else, Abu Dhabi is definitely the place for you.
Beach activities
There are many luxurious beach clubs on Abu Dhabi’s coastline. You can choose from a great variety of water and beach activities, like yoga lessons, snorkelling, kayaking, and even a round golf with a sea view at the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.
Ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster
Abu Dhabi’s luxury is not reserved for just its beaches and restaurants. There’s plenty of unique and exclusive adventures to enjoy, such as Ferrari World, where you’ll be able to have not one, but two breaking record experiences. First, at Formula Rossa, you can take the fastest ride of your life, going from 0 to 240 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. Next, if you’re looking to turn your world upside down, you can go to Flying Aces, where you’ll find the highest inverted ‘loop the loop’, with speed up to 120km/h.
Visit the only other Louvre in the world
You’ve probably heard about Paris’ Louvre, but you might be surprised to hear that the only other Louvre in the world is located in Abu Dhabi. This piece of architectonic art covers approximately 24,000 square metres, making it the largest museum in the Arabian Peninsula! You’ll find works from well-known artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Pablo Picasso, Gilbert Stuart and Edouard Manet.
The museum also boasts a French brasserie located on the rooftop, where you can sit back and relax with a bite to eat after your visit.
Important and useful information for your Abu Dhabi holiday
In terms of COVID-19 safety measures, as of 26 February 2022, you no longer need a test before you fly to Abu Dhabi if you’re fully vaccinated.
If you’re not fully vaccinated, you must present a PCR test taken within 48 hours before your trip, or provide a COVID-19 recovery certificate dated no more than 30 days before your departure. You can find more information on COVID-19 measures in Abu Dhabi here.
There you have it! You now have a list of options to consider for your next luxury-filled holiday in Abu Dhabi! We’ve given you an overview of some of the most popular activities, but if you’re craving more, we recommend that you check these 7 things you must do in Abu Dhabi. The luxury possibilities are endless!
