Abu Dhabi holidays: perfect for romance and relaxation

21.07.2023 - 07:30 / roughguides.com

You might not picture Abu Dhabi when you think of a romantic holiday, but the city’s breathtaking natural landscapes and sophisticated luxury resorts make it a dazzling destination for couples and honeymooners. Do you love to relax in the solitude of pristine places or prefer to bond over thrilling adventure experiences? Whatever your particular love language, the Abu Dhabi holidays do not disappoint.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for visiting the world.

Between Abu Dhabi’s 200 islands and 644km-long coastline, there are plenty of sun-drenched beaches. The private Nurai Island, a mere 15-minute boat ride away from the city, is ideal to escape the crowds.

This luxurious resort Nurai Island Resort is home to Nurai Beach Club. Here visitors can spend a day relaxing on the picturesque white sand beach. Swim in turquoise waters – and don’t miss those Instagrammable ocean swings! A day pass includes access to the private beach, pool and spa, and speedboat transfers.

When you get hungry, choose from fresh seafood, pizza, Asian cuisine and more at five restaurants. Afterwards, unwind to the sound of waves while enjoying a couples’ massage at Nurai Spa.

And the best part? Every villa at the resort comes with a private temperature-controlled pool set on an outdoor terrace overlooking the Arabian Sea.

Nurai island resort beach [Image courtesy of LastMinute.com]

Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or to splurge on a luxurious stay with your significant other on your Abu Dhabi holidays, the Emirates Palace offers a romantic setting that’s straight out of an Arabian fairytale.

First, there’s the location—scenic, yet close enough to the city’s main attractions. Set among lush manicured gardens, the property has a 1.3km private beach, two swimming pools and a marina. Then, there’s the opulent design. The hotel’s central dome (one of 114) is made of gold, crystals and mother-of-pearl, and over a thousand chandeliers adorn the interior.

A stay here is certainly fit for royalty. Contemporary comforts and top-notch amenities meet Arabesque design in the spacious rooms and suites. A butler is available 24/7 to ensure every need is attended to.

Eight restaurants serve a variety of cuisines. Don’t miss the award-winning Chinese restaurant Hakkasan, beachfront BBQ Al Qasr and fine-dining Indian restaurant Martabaan by acclaimed chef Hemant Oberoi.

Read our guide to the Best Abu Dhabi hotels and activities for an unforgettable trip.

Emirates Palace Hotel — one of the best places to stay on your Abu Dhabi holidays© SAKhanPhotography/Shutterstock

The luxurious Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort is built like a desert fortress. It stands among the