17 of The Best Luxury Abu Dhabi Resorts (2024)
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If you are looking for a destination where you can sit back and enjoy without having to look over your shoulder, where service is impeccable, and where you can experience the most fabulous resorts, Abu Dhabi should be at the top of your list.
Abu Dhabi is a cosmopolitan oasis, blending modernity and tradition to create the perfect destination for an indulgent getaway.
With its world-class hospitality, stunning natural landscapes, and luxurious resorts, Abu Dhabi Resorts have earned a reputation as one of the most luxurious in the world.
In this blog post, I’ll share my favorite luxury resorts in Abu Dhabi, and provide you with tips to plan an unforgettable trip.
St Regis Saadiyat Island
- Luxury beachfront resort
- Family Friendly
- Sinbad Kids Club
- Half-board options available
- Best beach in Abu Dhabi
- 3 level swimming pool
- Many dining options on-site
Read on to find out why I keep going back to the St Regis Saadiyat Island
Top luxury resorts in Abu Dhabi
Best Abu Dhabi Resorts for a Maldivian Experience
Nurai Island
Located on a private island, Nurai is one of the most luxurious resorts in Abu Dhabi. With its stunning beaches resembling the Maldivian Islands, this resort is sure to provide the ultimate luxury resort experience in Abu Dhabi
This private island resort is accessible by a 12-minute boat ride from Saadiyat or a 1-hour journey from downtown Dubai.
Beach villas are complete with a private pool, private villa beach access, and outdoor shower. There are private bikes outside each villa for guests to explore the island, along with many other amenities and even a small water park for kids to enjoy.
Best resorts on Saadiyat Island
St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort is a beautiful resort located on pristine Saadiyat Island.
St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort is my favorite resort for many reasons. Situated on the beach in the UAE, the property has stunning views of the Gulf Ocean and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. There is a delicious breakfast buffet spread as well as lunch and dinner buffet options.
Complete with the bespoke butler service, it has a host of other luxurious amenities, such as Sinbad Kids Club, a swimming pool, spread across two levels with different depths (ideal for kids of different ages), and one of the most stunning beaches I have ever seen (the closest I have seen to the Maldivian Islands). This is the ideal family resort.
Jumeirah Saadiyat Island
The Jumeirah Saadiyat Island is a luxurious beachfront resort that offers guests a unique blend of contemporary design and Arabian hospitality.
Floor-to-ceiling windows in rooms provide amazing resort and ocean views.
Jumeirah Saadiyat Island resort has tennis courts, padel tennis, a kids/teen club, and exquisite dining opinions with sublime ocean views, and pools. All of this is set on the wonderful Saadiyat Island – one of the best beaches stretches in the UAE.
Park Hyatt Saadiyat Island
The Park Hyatt Saadiyat Island is a luxurious beachfront resort that offers guests an intimate and personalized experience.
The hotel features one of the largest swimming pools in Abu Dhabi, set against the backdrop of the Arabian gulf shores. This is an ideal place to spend a relaxing beach vacation.
Park Hyatt has dining options on the beach, the Hyatt Camp for younger guests, a fitness center, and a spa. It also lies adjacent to the Saadiyat Beach Golf club, offering the opportunity for gold enthusiasts to get in a round on the Gary Player designed golf course there.
Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island
The Rixos Premium is a luxurious beachfront resort located on the beautiful Saadiyat Island. The resort offers a unique all inclusive package that includes A la carte, entertainment, spa facilities, and more. The property also features an outdoor swimming pool and an aquapark with a wave pool.
In true Turkish hospitality, the resort provides an all inclusive option with spacious rooms and world class cuisine.
Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas
The Saadiyat beach Rotana Resort & Villas is a luxurious beachfront resort located on the pristine Saadiyat beach Rotana Island. It has a soft sandy beach stretching 9km.
The structure comprises a modern Arabic design. There are 7 dining options that offer culinary experiences from around the world.
The resort has an outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, padel courts, a football pitch, a mini-golf course, and a beach club. There is also a kids club, a lazy river, a splash pool, a cinema zone, a water slide, and more.
Best resorts near Abu Dhabi’s Corniche
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
This Abu Dhabi hotel is one of the most iconic and luxurious resorts in Abu Dhabi, offering guests a royal experience like no other. If you are looking for a luxury resort break, Emirates Palace has plenty to offer.
The resort has 8 dining options, a spa, temperature controlled pool, a kids club, a private beach, and many other amenities.
I was particularly impressed by the 24-hour butler service. A butler I had not met, greeted us by name as we wandered the hotel. This was a testament to the level of personalized service.
Conrad Towers Abu Dhabi
The Conrad Towers Abu Dhabi is one of the most luxurious and modern resorts in the city. The resort is housed in one of the 5 towers that feature the Abu Dhabi Skyline.
Formerly a Jumeirah property, the hotel has been taken over by the Hilton group during the last few years.
Its towering height ensures dramatic views from the 74th-floor observation deck. There are 3 outdoor swimming pools here, a private beach, and 12 restaurants.
It is still a great place for a resort stay.
Best Desert resorts in Abu Dhabi
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Located in the heart of the Liwa Desert, the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara offers guests a unique and unforgettable desert experience.
This sustainable luxury resort has a vision of being the greenest desert resort in the world
A short drive from Abu Dhabi will lead you to this oasis which hosts, dessert spa rituals, and a range of outdoor activities such as camel trekking, dune bashing, and private dessert dining.
Al Wathba Luxury Collection Desser Resort and Spa
The Al Wathba Luxury Collection by Marriott is a luxurious resort located in the heart of the Liwa Desert.
Set against the dramatic desert dunes, Al Wathba is a serene spot away from the bustling capital. You can experience desert adventures, walks and even dining amidst the stars.
The hotel’s 1000 sqm outdoor pool lined with palm trees and overlooking the desert adds to the ambiance of being away.
Best Resorts near Grand Canal Abu Dhabi
Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal
The Ritz Carlton Grand Canal is a luxurious beachfront resort located with direct beach access to the stunning grand canal.
This family-friendly resort has a kids club, 1600 sqm, an outdoor swimming pool, outdoor swimming pool, a private beach, and global cuisine options.
Located across the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, you will enjoy some beautiful views of this iconic landmark.
The Ritz Carlton Grand Canal is fairly priced in comparison to some of the other luxury resorts and you can get some really good deals.
Best Resorts closest to nature in Abu Dhabi
Antara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi
The Antara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi is a luxurious eco-friendly resort located along serene the banks of the Eastern Mangrove Lagoon.
Antara Is the ideal place for those wanting to be closer to nature.
There are daily tours for kayakers wanting to explore the area. There is a variety of dining options with world cuisine on the menu. There are many adventure and leisure activities accessible from the hotel.
The hotel also connects to the Eastern Mangroves Promenade which has restaurants, and leisure outlets designed in a souk (Arabian Market) style.
This is a great resort for adventure lovers and those that love nature.
Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts
Located just off the coastline of Abu Dhabi, this protected reserve is a wildlife sanctuary with free-roaming animals including the Arabian Oryx.
On Sir Bani Yas Island, there are 3 options for accommodations by Antara
Antara Al Yamm Villa Resort
Inspired by a traditional Emirati village, these villas are lined against the rustic shores, close to nature on both ends.
This unique property offers the opportunity to be close to nature and snorkel through the reefs. It is located on a pristine beachfront.
Desert Islands Resort and Spa
If you are seeking a family adventure to explore ancient ruins, and rock formations or just embark on a family wildlife drive.
The property is located on the north shore between a lagoon and the open ocean and an adventure seeker’s dream.
Al Sahel Villa Resort
This luxurious property also features 30 safari styles villas with spacious rooms set in a space designed for you to be close to wildlife and nature.
You can enjoy African-inspired dining and wildlife experiences. It is based on a wild Savannah setting.
Other Abu Dhabi Beach Resorts
Intercontinental Abu Dhabi resort
The Intercontinental Resort is located on a marina waterfront stretch a few minutes away from downtown Abu Dhabi.
The hotel features tennis courts, a 150-meter white sand beach, an infinity pool, a splash pool, and a shaded children’s pool.
6 dining options are offering various global cuisine.
Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi
This contemporary hotel is located on Al Maryah Island.
The hotel has an outdoor pool on the 3rd floor creating a rooftop ambiance for the ultimate relaxation experience. There is also a kids club.
From the hotel, you can access the Galleria Mall (an upscale mall with various dining options).
Dining options include a Chicago-style steakhouse amongst other options.
This is a great option if you would like to have the option of resort facilities and also have access to a mall for shopping or dining
Why Abu Dhabi should be at the top of your list for a luxurious vacation
The number one reason why Abu Dhabi and the UAE are always at the top of my list is because of the safety.
It is one of the safest countries in the world and one of the only countries in the world where you can truly relax and enjoy your vacation without having to worry about your kid’s safety or about being pickpocketed.
With its stunning geography, warm weather all year round, rich culture and heritage, iconic landmarks, and world-class hospitality, Abu Dhabi should top your list of destinations for an unforgettable luxury vacation.
Conveniently located and easily accessible via direct flights with Etihad Airways, Abu Dhabi features gorgeous natural landscapes and attractions, such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, old souks, Etihad Towers, Emirates Palace, Yas Links, and Louvre — all of which make it a prime destination for an indulgent getaway.
Top things to do in Abu Dhabi
Visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must, especially for those interested in culture and heritage.
Ferrari World promises thrills and excitement, while
Yas Island offers attractions such as Yas Waterworld, Yas Marina Circuit, and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi.
Qasr Al Watan is the presidential palace of the UAE, open to visitors and featuring exhibitions, gardens, and a library that showcases the culture of the country.
Emirates Palace is an iconic luxury hotel where you can enjoy high tea or a meal with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.
Louvre Abu Dhabi is an art museum located on Saadiyat Island for those interested in art.
Tips on How to Plan the Perfect Abu Dhabi Getaway
Start by deciding when to travel: Abu Dhabi has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters, so it’s important to plan your trip accordingly. The best time to visit is from November to March when the weather is pleasant.
Choose your accommodation: Abu Dhabi has some of the world’s most luxurious resorts, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your preferences and budget. Consider factors such as location, amenities, and dining options when making your decision.
Plan out the activities: Abu Dhabi has a lot to offer, from cultural attractions and historical sites to adventure activities and shopping. Research and plan your activities to make the most of your time in the city.
Book your tours and activities: Many of the top attractions in Abu Dhabi require advance booking, so make sure to book ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Consider transportation options: Abu Dhabi is a sprawling city, so it’s important to consider transportation options when planning your trip. You can rent a car, use taxis, or use public transportation to get around the city.
Pack appropriately: Abu Dhabi has a conservative culture, so it’s important to dress appropriately when visiting public places. Pack comfortable and modest clothing, as well as sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun.
Check travel restrictions and requirements: Before traveling to Abu Dhabi, make sure to check the latest travel restrictions and requirements, including visa requirements and COVID-19 protocols.
By taking these steps into account when planning your trip to Abu Dhabi, you can be sure that it will be an enjoyable and memorable experience.