Top 5 Luxury Hotels in Abu Dhabi

Stealing the glistening crown of opulence from Dubai's sophisticated head

Fast cars and rousing architecture, is renowned for its taste and affluence. Perhaps not quite as well-known as Dubai but, with a constant injection of cash-flow, this uber-trendy city is certainly giving its sister emirates a run for its money. With an ever-expanding cityscape of soaring skyscrapers and lavish hotels, the capital of the UAE has proven that it still has a few tricks up its sleeves.  Stealing the glistening crown of opulence from Dubai’s sophisticated head; here are Abu Dhabi’s top 5 luxury hotels…

1.      Emirates Palace, West Corniche Road

Perched upon the sandy shores of a private beach, five minutes from the Marina shopping mall, the Emirates Palace’s exclusive positioning sets it aside from the five-star crowd. Crammed full of every amenity imaginable, however, there is very little reason to ever leave the hotel.  Sumptuous features include floodlit tennis courts, swimming pools, water slides and a lazy river, two fitness centres and a lavish spa. Oh, and did we mention the 12 different bar and restaurant facilities…?! Oh yes, those too!

2.      Desert Islands Resort and Spa by Anantara,  Sir Bani Yas Island

Ok, so we realise this hotel is a bit of a mouthful to say but what an exquisitely tasteful mouthful it is. Floating upon the remote island of Sir Bani Yas, on one of the world’s largest wildlife sanctuaries, this majestic resort has tapped into all the qualities that a luxury-goer requires. These include enormous Arabic-styled villas, a choice of dining facilities, an infinity swimming pool and spa and countless on-site activities. However, the most exciting of them all, of course, is the resident game reserve. Here you can drive through the National Park and gawp at roaming animals from cheetahs to hyenas. No torches or tents needed; it’s luxury all the way here.

3.      Yas Viceroy Hotel,  Yas Island

A canopy of LED lights illuminating the city skyline, the Yas Viceroy demonstrates a convergence of daring design and sheer opulence. Undoubtedly one of Abu Dhabi’s most unusual architectural structures, the Yas Viceroy’s striking sense of style is found echoed throughout the whole hotel. Treating the luxury traveller to every amenity under the sun, indulgences here include 7 international restaurants, a state-of-the-art gym, 2 rooftop pools with sunset views, a lobby patisserie and luxury spa. And, if that doesn’t get your heart racing, then, the formula 1^TM cars that race right underneath the hotel might do the trick…

4.      Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, West Corniche

Newly opened in November, and forming part of the same chain as Dubai’s infamous Burj Al Arab, the Jumeirah is the first of its kind. Occupying one fifth of the sculptural Etihad Towers, this avant-garde facility boasts panoramic views of the surrounding Arabian Gulf and adjacent Corniche.  With an array of first-rate facilities including modern suites, executive lounges, international restaurants, conference facilities and a grand ballroom, the hotel is entirely suited to the luxury business traveller. And, with a seafront location, the notion of nipping to the beach between meetings is really quite appealing.

5.      Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Between The Bridges

With unrivaled views of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the Fairmont Hotel knows how to impress. Setting their sights on providing a refined service (as well as setting), just like the Jumeirah, the Fairmont has plenty of draws for the affluent business traveller. Suitable for those looking for a relaxing retreat too, however, the Fairmont has a very versatile appeal. Among the luxury facilities are private beaches and leisure pools. The biggest attraction, however, has to be the hotel’s impressive selection of dining facilities.  Specifically tailored for food-lovers, dishes served here range from the Michelin starred masterpieces of celebrity Chef Marco Pierre White to the modest platters of poolside dining. And, as is made apparent by their resident ‘Chocolate Gallery’; the Fairmont certainly knows how to treat their guests to the best of everything.