Abu Dhabi, the dazzling capital of the United Arab Emirates, embodies a very specific idea of luxury: one taken to the extreme, where excess rubs shoulders with an almost indecent elegance. Less flashy than its neighbor Dubai, the city presents a more institutional—and also more cultural—face, driven by major architectural and artistic projects such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. A popular beach destination, boasting numerous white-sand beaches and unspoiled islands, Abu Dhabi is home to some of the most impressive hotels in the Gulf: urban luxury hotels, desert retreats, eco-resorts… Here are five hotels in Abu Dhabi selected by our editorial team, offering a full Emirati experience that blends Bedouin tradition with five-star hospitality.
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Perched on Abu Dhabi's famous Corniche, overlooking the sea, the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental stands out like a monument. Opened in 2005 and taken over by the prestigious Mandarin Oriental group in 2020, this modern-day palace required a budget of over three billion dollars, making it one of the most expensive hotels ever built! Its neo-Moorish architecture in shades of gold and sand evokes the palaces of *One Thousand and One Nights*, featuring no fewer than 114 domes, kilometers of marble, hand-carved columns, and Swarovski crystal chandeliers.
The’luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi features 394 rooms and suites, all designed in a sleek, contemporary style that remains true to the property’s Eastern spirit. The most exclusive rooms, such as the Khaleej Suite and the Ruler Suites, offer ultra-personalized services and spacious living areas with ocean view or the gardens…
On top of that, there are two gigantic swimming pools, a 1,500 m² spa, a 1.3 km private beach, a marina, a movie theater, and even two helipads! When it comes to dining, guests can choose from the Michelin-starred Hakkasan, serving exquisitely crafted Cantonese cuisine, or Talea by Antonio Guida, for a meal with exotic Italian flavors. In the mood for Indian cuisine? Head to Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi. At the Mandarin Oriental, you can dine your way around the world—until you eventually lose track of where you are.
Anything to note? A true institution in the Emirates, the Emirates Palace also serves as a hub for major international conferences, concerts, and film shoots (it notably served as a location for *Fast & Furious 7*)…
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
394 rooms, starting at 319 euros per night
West Corniche Road – Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Rent a Room at © Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group Limited © 2025
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi
Perched on the unspoiled island of Saadiyat, just a few minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi, the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort promises a luxurious beachfront experience in a truly exceptional natural setting.
The’5-star hotel, with 376 rooms and suites, stands out for its elegant Mediterranean architecture and refined interiors, combining modern comfort with oriental touches. Each room features a private balcony with breathtaking views of the Persian Gulf or the nearby Saadiyat golf course Beach Golf Club.
At the Iridium Spa, they offer a full range of treatments and no fewer than five outdoor pools and a large fitness center. When it comes to dining, the resort is home to several renowned restaurants, including Oléa, which specializes in contemporary Greek cuisine, and Buddha-Bar Beach, which combines a lounge atmosphere with the delights of Asian fusion cuisine.
The must-have? The St. Regis’ signature butler service ensures personalized attention for every guest. The hotel is also committed to sustainability initiatives aimed at preserving the island’s natural environment.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi
376 rooms, starting at 264 euros per night
Al Saadiyat Island – SDN1 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Stay at the St. Regis Abu Dhabi © 1996–2025 Marriott International, Inc.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
In the heart of the Liwa Desert, about a two-hour drive from Abu Dhabi, the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara emerges like a mirage amid the golden dunes of the Rub’ al-Khali, the world’s largest sand desert. This luxurious resort offers a chance to fully immerse yourself in the desert experience, where Arab tradition blends with modern comfort.
Inside, 140 rooms, 14 suites, and 51 villas with private pools are decorated in an elegant, local style and equipped to meet guests’ needs high-tech of its customers.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy here, such as camel rides, hikes in the dunes, and sandboarding, and couples can enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars. The Anantara Spa, renowned for its treatments inspired by Eastern traditions, features a hammam offering rituals based on desert roses.
Side catering, with a variety of options, from authentic Arabic cuisine to refined international dishes…
The little extra? Qasr Al Sarabe is also committed to preserving the desert environment by implementing sustainable practices and raising its guests’ awareness of the fragility of this unique ecosystem.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
207 rooms, starting at 376 euros per night
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort – Bateen Liwa – Mahdar Sahab – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Sleeping in the Abu Dhabi Desert © 2025 Anantara Hotels & Resorts
Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
Towering over the Abu Dhabi skyline, the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers stands out as a luxury hotel iconic Located within the Etihad Towers complex, a group of five majestic skyscrapers. The hotel, situated in one of the city’s tallest towers, offers 377 luxurious rooms and suites with spectacular views of the Persian Gulf and the city. Each room elegantly combines contemporary design with high-end comfort.
Outdoors, there are three swimming pools, a private beach, a spa with 13 treatment rooms, and a state-of-the-art fitness center…
There are 12 restaurants and bars to choose from, including Li Beirut, which specializes in Lebanese cuisine, and Sushi Samba, whose suggestive name reflects the fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisines.
Don't miss it! At the Observation Deck at 300, located on the 74th floor, you can enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of Abu Dhabi.
Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
377 rooms, starting at 163 euros per night
Corniche St – Al Bateen – W32 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
AUHETCI – Observation Deck at 300 © 2025 Hilton
Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort
Located on Saadiyat Island, the Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort is a haven of peace that combines luxury with a commitment to environmental sustainability. The hotel features 285 guest rooms, including standard rooms, suites, and villas, all designed to offer an immersive experience with spectacular views of the Persian Gulf. The ocean-inspired interiors feature soothing tones and natural materials, creating an atmosphere of serenity.
No fewer than three infinity pools, an award-winning spa offering holistic treatments, and a well-equipped fitness center make this The perfect spa hotel for a relaxing weekend.
When it comes to dining, there are several restaurants here, including Tean, which specializes in Levantine cuisine, and Mare Mare, which serves authentic Italian dishes.
The eco-friendly aspect? The Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort stands out for its commitment to sustainability, implementing initiatives such as reducing single-use plastic and protecting sea turtles that nest on nearby beaches.
Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort
285 rooms, starting at 206 euros per night
Al Saadiyat Island – SDN3 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
© Jumeirah 2025
By: Julie Garnier
