Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a dynamic city that blends old-world tradition and contemporary elegance. And this is mirrored in the hospitality scene. Here, you’ll find hotels renowned for their opulent design, where grandeur is a given and superior service is a standard. So whether you’re seeking panoramic views of the glistening Persian Gulf, access to exclusive shopping precincts, or state-of-the-art wellness facilities, there is a wealth of options in the capital. Here are the top Abu Dhabi hotels for an unforgettable vacation.
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In the Rub’ al Khali or Empty Quarter, the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is a secluded oasis just 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi. It’s easy to see why producers of Star Wars: The Force Awakens chose to film here as the location offers breathtaking panoramas of the Liwa Desert, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility and adventure in equal measure. The resort’s architecture is reminiscent of traditional Bedouin forts and each of the 140 rooms, 14 suites, and 53 pool villas have scenic desert views. The service here is impeccable. Other draws include the palm-line swimming pool, the Anantara Spa (with desert-themed treatments such as rose, rhassoul, and argan oil body scrubs), and the range of immersive experiences such as falcon shows, guided star gazing, and camel riding.
Qasr Al Sarab : Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort, Al Mirayr, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Price: $334
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This splendid boutique resort is approximately a 90-minute drive from Dubai and a 60-minute drive from Abu Dhabi, making it an accessible retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is also easy to reach by standard cars, so there’s no need for a SUV. The Telal Resort Al Ain is a sanctuary of opulence and a testament to the region’s rich heritage. The resort sits in the vast Remah Desert, which was once home to the nomadic Bedouin tribes and one of the best places to star gaze. From rooms with views of the stunning desert sunset to private villas with outdoor swimming pools, the resort caters to every kind of luxury traveler. Each of the 24 rooms is tastefully decorated, reflecting the region’s traditional aesthetics while providing modern comforts and amenities. There are a plethora of recreational activities for its guests. Adventure seekers can partake in outdoor activities such as desert safaris, while those who prefer a relaxing vacation can retreat to the wellness center. Additionally, the
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Five hotels under Dubai’s home-grown company Emaar Hospitality have been rebranded in one swoop this week. Properties in prestige locations such as The Dubai Mall (the world’s biggest mall) and Dubai Marina have been rebranded as Kempinski and Marriott respectively. Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH) owns the properties and says the move to strip Emaar branding was a “strategic business decision.”
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Consider Gold List the answer to the question our editors get asked more than any other: What are your favorite places to stay? Our 30th annual iteration of the world’s greatest hotels and cruises captures nearly a year’s worth of work: This collection of 75 resorts and hotels represents hundreds of hours of researching, scouting, and impassioned debating by our team of editors in seven cities across the globe. But more than that, it reflects our ongoing love affair with the places where we stay, which often become our gateways to entire destinations. Read on to inspire your next trip.