It’s hard to imagine that 40 years ago, Abu Dhabi was a fishing village in the Arabian desert. Today, the glitzy UAE capital is as glamorous as neighboring Dubai. In fact, its one of the 6 Neighbouring Cities You Must Visit While On Your Trip To Dubai. What’s more, Abu Dhabi has gained prominence as “the cultural emirate.” It brims with remarkable architectural attractions, like the lavish Grand Mosque, the Louvre, and more. Culture buffs will love traipsing its traditional souqs. Moreover, the city even promises thrill-seekers and beach bums an exciting time. Above all, Abu Dhabi, UAE brims with incredible hotels. The city is home to some of the most lavish lodgings on earth. As a matter of fact, even its less expensive hotels are not without ritz and glamor. Beachfront resorts, boutique stays, palatial opulence – Abu Dhabi’s hotels have it all.
Whether its jaw-dropping architecture or grandeur, forward-thinking Abu Dhabi doesn’t do things small. To that end, here are the 11 best hotels in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Where to Stay in Abu Dhabi
Unlike Dubai, Abu Dhabi is more spread out and has lots of vibrant neighborhoods spanning a spectrum of personas. To begin with, we have the Corniche, which lies right alongside Abu Dhabi’s dazzling beach. Cafes, food stalls, and luxury hotels – this place has it all. Moreover, the popular Al Zahiyah Tourist Club Area sits right beside it and has some excellent budget hotels. Located close to Corniche is Al Maryah Island, which is one of the city’s newest areas. It’s home to Abu Dhabi’s futuristic tech, financial, and shopping skyline. The sprawling Zone 1 comprises areas like Al Bateen and Eastern Mangroves. It also has Abu Dhabi’s most famous attraction, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The architectural marvel is famous as one of the 10 Most Beautiful Mosques In The World.
On the other hand, Saadiyat Island is the city’s most luxurious neighborhood. It’s all about beachfront luxurious hotels, villa complex, and the likes. Peace and tranquility rule the roost in Khalifa City, which lies on the fringes of Abu Dhabi. The lush neighborhood filled with boutique restaurants and hotels. Finally, Yas Island is a prime nightlife and shopping spot and is also home to Formula One. If you’re looking for out-of-the-world luxury, then Yas is where you should be.
Southern Sun Abu Dhabi
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There’s no better choice for a budget beach hotel than the Southern Sun in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Located in the buzzing Tourist Club Area, the hotel makes for an excellent base in the city. What’s more, some of Abu Dhabi’s best attractions are a 20-minute drive away.
The contemporary hotel glows in warm hues like dark brown, olive green, burnt orange, and beige. It exudes richness with clever use of suede furnishings and shades of copper. Subtle yet exotic Arabic touches include chandeliers and calligraphy-inspired artwork. Aside from a scenic-view fitness center, there’s even an outdoor rooftop pool. Gender-separate saunas are the ideal place for relaxation. Finally, a wide selection of restaurants serves both local and international fare.
You have the choice of Standard Rooms and Executive Suites, of which the latter offers more space. However, the best rooms in the hotel are the ones with views of the Corniche.
Aloft Abu Dhabi
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Aloft Abu Dhabi boasts one of the best rooftop views of the Arabian Peninsula and UAE. It’s located in the heart of Zone 1 and is a 10-15-minute drive from the city’s top attractions.
The 12-story hotel is faithful to the Aloft brand, and that’s evident in its fun, vibrant decor. For instance, the games area off the lobby is sprinkled with lounge areas and bean bags. A special mention goes to the staff, who were not just helpful but also pleasant round-the-clock. Fitness fanatics will love the fact that there’s a 24-hour gym. The outdoor pool area is one serene spot with verdant foliage and comfy seating. But, you’ll be most impressed with the variety of dining options. The Relax@12 rooftop lounge is a prime sundowner spot and sipping a cocktail is the best way to end the day.
The only difference in the two types of rooms, Splash and Aloft, is the view. Also, rooms aren’t only functional, but comfy too.
Park Rotana
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Park Rotana might just have one of the best locations for a budget hotel in Abu Dhabi, UAE. It lies right next to the verdant Khalifa Park and is a five-minute drive to the Shiekh Zayed Grand Mosque. In fact, it’s one of the most affordable hotels in the city.
Don’t let the hotel’s less-than-interesting exterior dishearten you. On the inside, the nine-story property is classy to boot. Comfy furnishings, statement light fixtures, and marble floors augment its appeal. The outdoor facilities, which have undergone a facelift, are excellent for lounging around. For instance, the temperature-controlled adult pool with a swim-up bar is the perfect place to unwind. If you aren’t in the mood for a swim, make yourself comfortable on the loungers. What’s more, the hotel even has a spa and a small gym. Two restaurants, a bar, and a cafe rounding up its offerings.
You can choose from four rooms – classic, premium, classic suites, and family rooms. All feature plush beds, minibars, nice bathrooms, and even cozy sitting areas. If you’re looking for more space, go for the higher category rooms, which also offer great views.
Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi
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The spectacular Dusit Thani brings Thailand to the skies of Abu Dhabi. The Thai-esque property lies in the northern part of Zone 1, in the area’s tallest building. But, that’s not all. Its soaring atrium is the third-largest in the world! So, vistas seen from this striking hotel are truly views of a lifetime.
The show-stopping lobby atrium impresses you right from the outset. The hotel’s Thai heritage is evident everywhere, right from the orchids on display to the lobby’s traditional Khim player. The Thai and Middle Eastern vibes blend beautifully. Think glittering chandeliers and silk cushions. After a session in the polished 24-hour gym, a visit to the Namm Spa works off all stresses. Plus, the on-site restaurants are an ode to Thai food, with a sprinkling of continental fare thrown in. If you want to get around, then the hotel even has a free shuttle bus to both Abu Dhabi and Marina Malls.
Rooms, even entry-level ones, begin from the 30th floor and boast floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Besides high-tech mod-cons, they also have lavish bathrooms and plush king beds. The property even has apartment-style units for those who want to stay longer.
Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
7
If you love living by the water, then you’ll immediately take to Traders Hotel. The hotel lies on the mainland in Al Maqta, with the lovely Maqta Creek right out front. Not only does it have its own private beach, but it also has some of the best night views of Abu Dhabi. If that wasn’t enough, the city’s best attractions are 5-10 minutes away.
What makes this hotel different is the vivid furnishings with pops of teal, purple, and lime green. Couple that with modern artwork and statement furniture, and you get a sleek hotel. Although the gym and pool are on the smaller side, its the private beach that is the hotel’s highlights. A single restaurant serves excellent breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. In addition, Traders Hotel is part of the sprawling Qaryat Al Beri complex. So, you also have access to the Shangri-La hotel and residences nearby, as well as a spa and a souq.
You can choose from eight types of rooms, across which floor space and Club Lounge access are the only differences. Even entry-level Superior rooms with king beds, reading nooks, and plush bathrooms are excellent choices.
Beach Rotana
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There are multiple reasons why Beach Rotana is one of the most popular hotels in Abu Dhabi, UAE. For one, it’s one of the oldest hotels in the emirate. Secondly, it has direct access to the ritzy Abu Dhabi Mall. What’s more, its central location in the Tourist Club Area puts it within walking distance of the glitz of the Corniche. This makes the hotel the perfect base to explore the Top 8 Things To Do In Abu Dhabi.
For a hotel that’s been around for at least a quarter of a century, it continues to be comfortable and elegant. The lobby with the magnificent dome is a rousing start to your vacation. Indulge in a treatment at Zen the Spa after a day of exploring Abu Dhabi. Also, the hotel has a whopping 12 dining options! So, you can eat at a different place every day of your stay and still not exhaust them all. Even though the pool is great, the small private beach feels fabulously exclusive.
Most standard rooms are towards the hotel’s rear with sweeping views of the water and even the Louvre Abu Dhabi in the distance. Also, every room, although compact, has petite balconies and excellent mod-cons. A pretty local touch is the framed Arabic-style carpets hung on the wall.
Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi
5
The slick Andaz Capital Gate Hotel in Abu Dhabi, UAE could very well be a modern art museum. It lies in one of Abu Dhabi’s most recognizable buildings, the “Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi.” Andaz, lying between the 18th and 33rd floors is thus, no less an architectural marvel.
As you enter the 18th-floor lobby, you’re greeted by a calligraphy-esque floor projection. The chandelier is the standout feature, while plush designer furnishings lend it a swanky yet homely vibe. When it comes to the amenities, the rooftop terrace pool is the clear winner. The 19th-floor pool, combined with the crazy wave exterior of the building, give it the impression of floating in the air! Aside from a restaurant, the bar offers complimentary wine to guests every day in the evening. A great spa and gym complete its offerings.
All rooms are spacious to boot, and many offer floor-to-ceiling views of the Arabian Peninsula and the sea. A super comfy king bed and a lavish marble bathroom with a bathtub that has sensational views.
Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara
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If you’re looking for a serene yet central sanctuary in Abu Dhabi, then the Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara is perfect. The plush property lies amidst protected mangroves on a nature-filled waterway. As a result, this exclusive resort is a front-row seat to stunning Arabian sunsets.
Despite being modern, the hotel slips in Arabian opulence. This is evident in the shimmering chandeliers and Islamic-style arches. The vibe at this hotel is innately Middle-Eastern, right from the shisha by the pool to the dates offered when you enter. Two restaurants and a lounge take care of all food cravings from morning to late-night eats. Aside from a gym, there’s even a beauty salon for you to look good for your daily selfies. As the day winds down, turn towards the Anantara Spa and its Turkish hammam for some R&R.
The rooms and suites are the main attraction at this urban resort since all have balconies overlooking either the mangroves or the city. If you’re looking for something truly exotic, choose one of the suites. One has a private plunge pool, while the other has an infinity pool with views of the mangroves and Abu Dhabi.
W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
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W Abu Dhabi is something of a landmark on Yas Island. The hotel is famous for its half-land, half-water location straddling the Yas Marina Circuit of Formula One. What’s more, some of UAE’s most famous attractions lie right beside, including the Yas Mall and Waterworld and the famed Ferrari World.
The hotel boasts a statement and signature curved exterior design, which extends to its sleek interiors and winding hallways. Splashes of color add zing to common areas and the hotel feels less Arabesque and more international. You have two pools to choose from for lounging, one of which is adults-only. Sip on a cocktail while enjoying the sunset over the glided emirate. Aside from the fitness center, its the luxury spa with a host of aromatherapy massages and treatments that you’ll love. Apart from an all-day restaurant, W also has an Indian restaurant and a chic bar. Moreover, it ferries you to the island’s best attractions aboard complimentary shuttles.
Rooms, even the standard ones, are spacious with a fresh grey-and-white color palette. Glass bathrooms, smart controls, and balconies offering excellent views make up the rest of it.
Grand Millennium Al Wahda
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The Grand Millenium Al Wahda sits right in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s city center on one of its busiest boulevards. Shopaholics will particularly love its location as well as the hotel’s direct access to Al Wahda Mall, which is the emirate’s largest shopping mall. What’s more, top Abu Dhabi attractions like the Grand Mosque, Ferrari World, and Corniche are within a 20-minute drive.
What makes the hotel so popular is that it’s affordably luxurious. A fresh, modern design sees the use of lime and brown hues, making the space feel expansive and comfy at the same time. An open-air rooftop pool is the best place to chill, with views of the emirate and the sea. Fitness fanatics will love the range of facilities provided by the health club. These include a fitness center, spa, sauna, and even a hammam. Finally, three dining outlets and a superb 31st-floor lounge will have you not wanting to leave the premises at all.
You’ll be pleased to know that all rooms here enjoy views of Abu Dhabi’s scintillating skyline. Aside from lavish bathrooms with bathtubs, a slew of mod-cons and comfy beds make staying here a dream.
Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Hotel
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We saved the best for the last. Presenting Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Hotel, located at the western end of the Corniche in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The 69-story hotel lies at the edge of the island with the Persian Gulf right out front. As a result, it offers the best, and highest views of all.
A floor-to-ceiling glass atrium with Swarovski-crystal chandeliers wow you right upon entry. The jaw-dropping interiors continue throughout the hotel, with pearl-encrusted ceilings, amethyst-encrusted lifts, and more. Floral carpet motifs and beige hues lend a modern, toned-down look. The presence of 12 restaurants and bars makes this hotel a dining destination in its own right. Ray’s Bar and Grill boasting a sky-high location is the best of them all. The well-equipped gym and the impressive and decadent spa are perfect for a workout followed by some indulgence. However, its’ the three swimming pools, one with a swim-up bar that will really appeal to your laidback sense. Don’t miss going up to the observation deck, which offers Abu Dhabi’s highest vantage point.
Rooms are spacious and all have tech-controlled drapes and lighting. For relatively budget-friendly extravagance, we’d recommend the Deluxe Standard rooms, which offer sea and city views.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars / Food Tours in Abu Dhabi:
- Abu Dhabi Dhow Dinner Cruise: There’s nothing like savoring UAE’s flavors. And, a 2-hour dinner cruise along the Persian Gulf in Abu Dhabi is the best way to do that.
- Salt: Who’d like to dig into yummy food at what is the first food truck in the UAE? This casual “restaurant” is famous for its burgers, sliders, and sides.
Recommended Activities In Abu Dhabi:
- Abu Dhabi Half-Day Guided City Tour: This guided 5-hour tour takes you exploring the best highlights of Abu Dhabi.
- Abu Dhabi Desert Safari: A visit to Abu Dhabi is incomplete without heading to the magical Arabian desert. Indulge in thrilling activities before enjoying a barbeque dinner under the stars.
