Abu Dhabi Insider - 2018

ABU ABU DHABI DHABI

INSIDER

2018

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Abu Dhabi Corniche, photo by Seawings

WELCOME TO ABU DHABI

T

he largest of the seven emirates and the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi is anchored by its island city and offers a wealth of attractions that draw visitors from around the world. Culture reigns supreme, from the awe-inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to art icon Louvre Abu Dhabi, and it’s also a hotspot for thrills and spills, with exciting theme parks and plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy. Explore the emirate from its historic heartland out to the golden dunes of the Empty Quarter to get the inside track on why this world-class destination is on the must-see list...

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NEW ARRIVALS

CULTURE

Our pick of the newest, must-see attractions; plus, top tips on getting around during your stay

07 HOTELS

Check into cosmopolitan skyscraper luxury, escape to a desert oasis, or catch the breeze from the boutique comfort of any one of a host of coastal resorts

17 RESTAURANTS

Peruse a mouthwatering menu of culinary experiences where local flavour meets global influences and homegrown concepts go head-to-head with established fine dining venues

From modern art institutions to cultural gems that celebrate the emirate’s rich history, there are lots of ways to discover Abu Dhabi’s multi-faceted heritage

26 SHOPPING

Be sure to save some space in your suitcase, as the city’s designer boutiques, mega malls and atmospheric bazaars are not to be missed

29 ACTIVITIES

Theme park action, waterpark fun, fabulous golf courses, dune driving and more... pack in as much as possible during your visit 3 Welcome

ADVANTAGE ABU DHABI Discover the city’s newest attractions. Plus, essential info for having a happy holiday

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n town for a long weekend, or holidaying with the family for the first time, check out our selection of new attractions to tick off your list…

WARNER BROS. WORLD ABU DHABI

World firsts are second nature for the UAE and the capital’s newest entertainment destination is home to the only US$1 billion Warner Bros. branded indoor theme park on the planet. The 1.65 million square foot park boasts six immersive lands including DC’s Metropolis and Gotham City, as well as Cartoon Junction, Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch and Warner Bros. Plaza. Fun comes in the form of a 29-strong roster of state-of-the-art rides, plus interactive family-friendly attractions and unique live entertainment populated 4 Hello Abu Dhabi

by fan-favourite characters such as Scooby-Doo, Wonder Woman, Bugs Bunny, Harley Quinn, Tom and Jerry, Superman and The Flintstones. Fuel up with a Bedrock Bronto Burger or treat yourself to some Penelope Pitstop Cotton Candy, and then join in the fun.

THE FOUNDER’S MEMORIAL

Embark on a fascinating journey of discovery into the life and legacy of the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, at this permanent memorial designed by Ralph Helmick. Be mesmerised by The Constellation, a dynamic three-dimensional portrait of Sheikh Zayed, which can be seen from various vantage points within the thoughtfully designed space. Multi-media experiences and

complimentary guided tours give visitors unique insight into Sheikh Zayed’s legacy and values. A public plaza, known as the Sanctuary Garden, along with the Heritage Garden, celebrate his love for the natural world with landscaping featuring plants and shrubs indigenous to the UAE and the Arabian Peninsula.

A’L BAHAR

The city’s newest beachfront community, A’l Bahar is situated along the famous corniche. A grand total of 48 entertainment and retail outlets, plus occasional pop-ups, make up the 80,000-square-metre experience. Visitors can also get active with basketball and beach volleyball courts, football pitches, the inflatable AquaFun waterpark and a Venice Beach-style outdoor gym.

NEED-TO-KNOW

Top tips to ensure your trip to Abu Dhabi goes smoothly…

GETTING THERE

Located 30km east of the city, Abu Dhabi International Airport serves over 120 destinations and is home to national carrier Etihad Airways. The airport currently has three passenger terminals with its under-development Midfield Terminal scheduled to open in 2019 as part of a major expansion programme that will boost capacity to 30 million passengers per year.

To book a flight or hotel, call dnata Travel on +971 4 316 6666 or visit dnatatravel.com.

GETTING AROUND

Taxi: Freely available across the city, hail an official silver taxi on the street or book via the TransAD hotline – 600 535353. Ladies have exclusive access to a fleet of women-only pink taxis.

Local app-based car service Careem is another option.

Bus: A modern fleet of air-conditioned public buses covers the city virtually around the clock. If you’re planning to use buses as a primary mode of

transport, the Hafilat Smart Card is available from numerous accredited sales points.

Car hire: All the major brands are present and booking desks are located at the airport, in the city’s malls and at hotels. Don’t forget to bring your valid international driving licence.

Ferry: You can hop on a Department of Transport operated ferry to Delma Island, one of the oldest known permanent settlements in the UAE, from Port Mugharaq on the mainland (dot.abudhabi.ae). Plus, fun daily boating experiences are offered by Arabian Adventures, so you can gain a unique perspective of landmarks, such as Al Maqtaa Bridge, from the water (arabian-adventures.com).

CITY SMARTS

Weekends in Abu Dhabi are Friday and Saturday. Show respect for the local (Islamic) culture by dressing modestly and covering up shoulders, décolletage and legs (to the knee) when in public spaces and save the swimwear for the beach or pool. Feel free to fall in love with the city, but do avoid public displays of affection – it’s simply not the done thing.

Opposite: The Founder’s Memorial This page, from top: A’l Bahar; The Founder’s Memorial; Warner Bros.

World Abu Dhabi

5 Hello Abu Dhabi

JOURNEY INTO THE SPIRIT OF ARABIA. Relax and unwind as you breathe in the mystical charm of the Rub’ Al Khali.

Discover unparalleled desert luxury and cultural passion just 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi. Trek the footsteps of the Bedouin and create a thousand timeless moments in a luxury desert oasis.

To book your stay, call +971 (0) 2 895 8700 or email crome@anantara.com

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com CAMBODIA • CHINA • INDONESIA • MALDIVES • MOZAMBIQUE • OMAN • PORTUGAL • QATAR • SRI LANKA • THAILAND • UNITED ARAB EMIRATES • VIETNAM • ZAMBIA

HOTELS

STAND-OUT STAYS

Downtown luxury, palatial grandeur and nature escapes, the hotel scene has something for everyone

7 Hotels

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igh-end hospitality comes as standard in the UAE capital, and the emirate’s hotels are continually breaking new ground when it comes to style and innovation. The latest additions to the local landscape include the Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, where beach chic is the design motif (think The Hamptons) and living art comes in the form of beautifully framed sea views from the guestrooms. The ultra-secluded Beach Villas are the way to go, each with a private plunge pool leading onto the white sand beach.

Get up off that sun lounger and book a Turkish hammam session at Zen spa, before having sundowners on the rooftop terrace at Turtle Bay Bar & Grill, which is already emerging as a favourite among the city’s culinary cognoscenti.

Also hot off the hospitality starting block is Rixos Saadiyat Island, a sublimely sprawling oriental palace where guests can pootle around its expansive grounds on complimentary bicycles and make a splash in the

8 Hotels

chilled swimming pools (the best way in is via the giant water slide) before escaping for some pampering at the spa. Wrap up the day by dining on authentic Turkish cuisine overlooking the ocean at Mermaid.

Swap island chilling for a slice of Emirati heritage (with added zhuzh) at Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort.

An exclusive hideaway inspired by traditional oases, with lush gardens and reflective pools that instantly zap away all thoughts of fast-paced city living, the private villas are the epitome of desert chic – who doesn’t love a private plunge pool? You can also wind back the clock another way with a session in Talise Spa’s crystal salt and cryo chamber.

City devotees will love the sleek lines and striking interiors of the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl, which has bagged a prime location at the skyscraperadorned end of the corniche. The requisite infinity pool is an immediate post-sightseeing soother while the Grand Club Lounge has two private

Opening page: Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort This page, clockwise from top: Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort; Pearl Lounge, Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Residences Emirates Pearl; Rixos Saadiyat Island

A SINGLE ISLAND, AN OCEAN OF EXPERIENCES. Escape to one of the three Anantara resorts on the island paradise of Sir Bani Yas and turn your dream vacation into reality.

Email crome@anantara.com or call +971 2 895 8700.

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com CAMBODIA • CHINA • INDONESIA • MALDIVES • MOZAMBIQUE • OMAN • PORTUGAL • QATAR • SRI LANKA • THAILAND • UNITED ARAB EMIRATES • VIETNAM • ZAMBIA

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viewing cinema screens; reason enough to book a Club Room, we say.

The city has also welcomed the Abu Dhabi EDITION, with the much-hyped luxury property an architecturally prominent addition to the Al Bateen waterfront community and the first Middle East location for this upscale Ian Schrager-Marriott concept.

Meanwhile, if you're mixing business with pleasure, you can reach a happy compromise at Aloft Abu Dhabi, which is set within the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. The property has a raft of business-friendly facilities and fab dining options like relax@12, which serves sublime sushi on a sleek rooftop terrace.

Just down the road, and with lap-itup views of the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is the perfect midway base. But be warned: its palatial Italian Renaissance-inspired design makes leaving the comfort of your Garden House suite, expansive spa and duo of private beaches all the more challenging.

Directly over the water, two more luxury temptations call out with the Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi channelling some serious 1,001 Nights vibes with rich jewel-toned interiors and dark woods creating a cosy atmosphere. It also conveniently connects to the adjacent souk, which

makes trinket hunting all the easier.

Its immediate neighbour, the strikingly modern Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi (worth a photo by night) will satisfy both healthy and indulgent intentions with its Olympicsized swimming pool a great precursor to dinner and drinks at Spanish sharing venue Puesta del Sol. Hop aboard a water taxi and head towards town via the protected mangrove forests that stretch for several kilometres along the Eastern Ring Road, which is where you’ll find the Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa

by Anantara. A delightfully serene location, this is the place to be at one with nature. Enjoy the mangrove views from your elegant guestroom, get out on the water on a kayaking tour, or take a leisurely spin along the eightkilometre-long corniche. You can even try your hand at an Arabic or Thai cooking class hosted by one of the resident chefs.

Occupying a premier position on Corniche East Road, Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche invites you to dial down the pace by enjoying serene Arabian Gulf views, calming rituals at SoSPA and a refreshing dunk in the free-form swimming pool. What's more, an utterly relaxing outdoor dining experience awaits at Grills@Chill’O restaurant by the pool, where Mediterranean dishes are the order of the day.

“Enjoy mangrove views from your guestroom"

From top: Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche; Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa

by Anantara

11 Hotels

“The neighbourhood also boasts the world’s highest suspended presidential suite” Edging ever closer to the city centre, and conveniently connected to Al Wahda Mall, Grand Millennium Al Wahda is a match made in heaven for the die-hard shopper. Contemporary guestrooms (the two-bedroom apartments are a great family option), rooftop pool and fabulous modern Arabic flavours at Six Lounge Thirty One are just a taster.

Upscale takes on new meaning in the City’s West Corniche district, where a clutch of spiralling towers house some of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic hotels. The gilded exterior of Bab Al Qasr exudes luxury and its interiors are just as glamorous with a blend of traditional Arabesque and 21st-century style.

Overlooking the Presidential Palace, its rooms with a view are contemporary retreats, and opulent touches abound throughout the hotel – we recommend trying the soothing sapphire spa ritual.

The neighbourhood also boasts the world’s highest suspended presidential 12 Hotels

suite with two floors of jaw-dropping skybridge opulence courtesy of The St. Regis Abu Dhabi. There, vertiginous luxury knows no bounds with a cinema, spa and private elevator all included.

Rounding out a trio of stellar locations, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers has been dazzling visitors since 2011 with its standout interior design and swathe of upscale facilities, including three pools, a spa sanctuary and endless dining options (high tea at the Observation Deck takes the biscuit for gastronomic innovation with sky-high flair). There’s also direct access to Avenue at Etihad Towers, a boutique mall with over 30 designer stores to browse, along with some more great dining options.

It’s impossible to bypass this upmarket avenue of hotels without mentioning Emirates Palace. As much a landmark as it is a superb example of hospitality excellence, this Abu Dhabi

Clockwise from top: Lobby, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi; Jumeirah at Etihad Towers; Emirates Palace

grande dame is simply stunning. With 1.3 kilometres of private beach, endless expanses of gold-leafed glamour, 14 restaurants and suites so big you need a map (or private butler) to navigate your route from bathroom to bed, new and old world charm unite in extravagant unison.

Downwind of the Corniche, the high-rise centrally located Marriott Hotel Downtown, Abu Dhabi blends modernity and warmth. Instagramming teens will love the rooftop pool while parents can make a beeline for the wonderful Saray Spa. And with interconnecting rooms, child-friendly menus and a small kids’ pool, it really is all about added value for families.

At the opposite end of town, the ultra-modern, high-end playground that is Four Seasons Hotel at Al Maryah Island shouts sleek luxury from the top down. Rooms evoke understated luxury with jewelled tones adding a pop of desirable colour, and floor-to-ceiling windows and humungous spa-like bathrooms for that inevitable wow moment. The Deluxe Waterfront Rooms with their blue-grey palette perfectly frame the expansive views outside.

We also rate the third-floor pool deck both for its view and its day-to-night transformation from leisure locale to chill-out lounge.

Fellow Al Maryah dweller, Rosewood Abu Dhabi connects directly to the designer stores of The Galleria, as well as to Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.

The Manor Club room experience is every bit as grand as it sounds, offering access to the Executive Lounge, which includes an artisan breakfast and signature Rosewood butler service.

And they even throw in a fitness consultation with one of the hotel’s personal trainers.

14 Hotels

The city’s outlying ‘burbs are home to a growing community of standout hospitality options. Part of the mega sports-mad complex of the same name, action meets relaxation at the Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi, which boasts a host of ball, bat and waterbased pursuits. Football, tennis, karting, paintballing, shooting, wakeboarding and waterskiing are some of the activities on offer, and the resort is located just a short drive from more sporting fun on Yas Island.

Also located just 20 minutes' drive from the delights of Yas Island, the capital's entertainment island, Mafraq Hotel is a great family option with 250 guestrooms, five restaurants and lounges, palm-fringed swimming pools and a children’s play area.

The go-to for Abu Dhabi Grand Prix fans, Yas Hotel Abu Dhabi, with its unmistakably futuristic roof, straddles the F1 race track at Yas Marina Circuit.

Its façade is particularly captivating at night when it’s bathed in a gentle blanket of coloured light. While the F1 weekend is a 72-hour occasion, guests flock to the hotel throughout the year to enjoy the contemporary comfort of its spacious guestrooms and deep bathtubs, while the other half plump for one of the two-storey Presidential Suites with private lap pools.

Staying on Yas Island, the close community of local hotels includes the Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi - Yas Island with its unblinkered view of the golf course and sea. The calming vibe is carried through to the hotel rooms

Abu Dhabi Insider x Jumeirah at Etihad Towers

The high life Enjoy an elevated experience and a slice of Abu Dhabi’s renowned hospitality at the sky-reaching Jumeirah at Etihad Towers

From top: Looking down on the pools and beach; the hotel at night; Grand Deluxe Room

Overlooking the glistening Arabian Gulf and the city’s cosmopolitan corniche, the 69-storey Jumeirah at Etihad Towers offers views to write home about. If you’ve a head for heights, a visit to the hotel’s Observation Deck at 300 is a must. The city’s highest vantage point, it offers a panoramic view of the skyline.

The view from the guestrooms is equally breathtaking, with a choice of city skyline or coastal views complementing stylish furnishings and a raft of in-room technology. The suites here rank among the finest in the city: even their bathrooms afford widescreen views of Abu Dhabi.

As the hotel’s largest, the Royal Etihad Suite can accommodate up to eight adults and four children, while all suites include butler service and a personalised check-in service.

Its lofty standing aside, the property also excels at downtime. There are multiple dining outlets, a pristine private beach and the award-winning Talise Spa, home to 13 treatment rooms and myriad experiences that can be tailored to suit your needs. Other amenities include a hi-tech Six P Gym, as well as three swimming pools.

If you’re flying in for business, consider choosing a room with access to the Club Executive Lounge. Open from 7am until midnight, the lounge offers all-day refreshments, the use of laptops and a meeting room that can be used for quiet time or catching up with colleagues.

Foodies will be pleased to learn that Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is a dining destination in its own right. Among the most popular venues is the buzzy Ray’s Bar and Ray’s Grill, a contemporary steakhouse serving the world’s choicest cuts. BiCE is one of the UAE’s standout Italian restaurants, while the award-winning Tori No Su is the city’s go-to spot for lauded Japanese dishes.

Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a stand-out wedding venue, be sure to check out the 1,000-capacity Mezoon Ballroom – it’s perfect for glamorous unions and includes a stunning pre-function area with indoor terrace views of the sea. To find out more, visit jumeirah.com 15

“Drink in the sight of seemingly endless dunes"

and the tempting delights of the super social swim-up Sundowner Pool Bar. The Kids’ Club is a blessing if you need to entertain any four- to 12-year-olds – that’s assuming they have any energy left after a day exploring the theme parks, water park and entertainment hotspots on the island.

Value and service focused, the fourstar Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island is another great option.

Book a Business Class Room with a sun-soaked private balcony and you’ll receive complimentary drinks and snacks throughout the day. Just across the way, the Premium Plus - Race Track View guestrooms at Yas Island Rotana are popular thanks to their private balcony and views of Yas Marina and Yas Marina Circuit.

The emirate’s islands number more than 200, but it’s Saadiyat Island, Yas’ nearest neighbour, that is garnering global attention as a global cultural hub, thanks to Louvre Abu Dhabi. Cultural experiences of a different kind await at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, a delightful seaside retreat built to resemble a grand Mediterranean villa, albeit one with a nine-kilometre-long beach, collection of landscaped pools, and seven bars and restaurants. The hotel also boasts one of largest suites in the UAE; spanning two whole floors, the Royal Suite features a Steinway grand piano, billiards room, mini-cinema, and private pool. The legendary St. Regis butler service comes as standard.

Close by, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas doubles up on your 16 Hotels

viewing pleasure with sea and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club views from its guestrooms and restaurants. Décor is luxurious yet understated, with oak and walnut finishes and white marble bathrooms. All rooms have large terraces, while the two and three-bedroom villas feature a private plunge pool.

The largest emirate in the UAE, Abu Dhabi’s hotel scene extends far and wide. Get away from it all amid the sweeping red sands of the famous Liwa desert where, after an adventurous two-hour drive from the city, a real-life mirage has taken shape. The palmshaded courtyards, jewel-studded lanterns and Arabesque décor of Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is an oasis with benefits beyond fresh water and dates (although the latter is part of the signature welcome).

Accommodation of choice has to be a Pool Villa, which allows you to soak in a plunge pool while drinking in the sight of seemingly endless dunes.

Exotic explorations are taken up a notch on Sir Bani Yas Island, a former (private) royal wildlife sanctuary. A triptych of exceptional stays are on offer at the fortress-inspired Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, the shoreline barasti villas of Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort or wildlife-surrounded Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort.

Flocks of flamingos, rare Arabian oryx and pristine white sand beaches speak to a passion for nature, while indigenous spa experiences, world-class dining, al fresco moments and an eco-friendly philosophy satisfy modern-day desires.

Previous page: Deluxe King Room, Four Seasons Hotel at Al Maryah Island (photo by Paul Thuysbaert) This page from top: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara; Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara; Yas Island Rotana; Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort

RESTAURANTS

TOP TABLES It’s no exaggeration to say that the world is on a plate when it comes to Abu Dhabi’s vibrant dining scene

17 Restaurants

A

social occasion in any language, food unites cultures and cuisines in a unique way, and Abu Dhabi’s culinary offering is as distinctive as its multicultural population. As the city continues to grow and add new experiences, the menu of dining opportunities gets longer each year. Two decades after launching in Paris, a foodie icon has finally made it to Abu Dhabi with the opening of day-to-night destination Buddha-Bar Beach at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi.

Boho chic vibes abound but there is still the same focus on delivering a high-quality Far Eastern dining experience. The signature Buddha-Bar chicken salad is a robust, zingy affair but don’t ignore the awesome seafood on offer – the ceviche is a clear winner.

It’s a squeeze fitting another Italian restaurant into the city’s pasta-laden repertoire but save room for Dino’s Bistro Italiano at Pearl Rotana Capital Centre where kitsch red and white checkered tablecloths scream trattoria and the calzone with mushrooms and spinach is utterly moreish.

Gastro flavours have found their place on Saadiyat Island at the Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, where Hamilton’s Gastropub is fast becoming the social hangout of choice, ably aided by its bestselling metrelong lamb, chicken or veal sausage platters served with caramelised onions (the black Mediterranean mussels pot is another standout).

Casual seems to be the new cool this year and another welcome addition – and the subject of a gazillion Instagram posts, is Black Tap. No need to drive to Dubai any longer to get your freakshake fix with Yas Mall serving up the pink, blue and yellow froufrou cotton candy shake and other lurid concoctions. Their All-American burger and falafel burger are both superb although the sides may tip you over the edge – crispy Brussels sprouts anyone? Expect to queue.

Pop-ups, food trucks and homegrown concepts are picking up speed. On the busy waterfront Corniche, the A’l Bahar leisure 18 Restaurants

“Pop-ups, food trucks and homegrown concepts are picking up speed”

development has a slew of quick eat options. We particularly like Eat Sol’s burgers and Cupagahwa for a warming cup of karak chai. The jaw-aching allure of a prime cut of meat, cooked simply to order, is the MO at Bill’s Farm where you get to chow down on top quality flavours, and soak up the phenomenal views of the city skyline.

The Porterhouse for two with forkfuls of truffle mash is the way to go.

For a suits-all spread in a five-star setting, Rosewater at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers has a brilliant buffet serving a variety of global flavours, with live cooking stations so you can see the chefs in action.

South American cuisine is still very much in favour and the modern Peruvian fare at Coya Abu Dhabi has won its place in the hearts of local diners.

Reserve the private 12-seat dining room for a special occasion and share the gourmet fun. Tip: make sure you try the savoury churros de papa, wagyu tartare tacos and corn served three ways.

In the same upscale retail location, The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, 99 Sushi Bar is the brainchild of Spanish siblings and serves up Japanese haute cuisine to haute couture-clad diners. Staying

in Asia, authentic Thai fare is always guaranteed at Pachaylen at Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara.

The calming views of the protected mangroves are offset by the vibrant flavours and presentations.

When it comes to Indian cuisine, you really are spoilt for choice. We hate to be picky, but our three current faves, in no particular order, are the award-winning Ushna at The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri for the gosht khada masala, Signature

by Sanjeev Kapoor at Nation Galleria where the Telangana lobster chingari always tickles our fancy, and Angar at Yas Hotel Abu Dhabi for the set Curry Club menu, featuring the exquisite dish of baby eggplant and jalapeños in a peanut, coconut gravy.

Carnivores are well catered for in Abu Dhabi, with many a plush wood-panelled steakhouse. A winter favourite is the upmarket BBQ Al Qasr at Emirates Palace. Seafront gazebos set the scene while the menu of prime American and Aussie beef will satisfy those meat cravings. The restaurant also does a nice line in seafood. If celeb status steaks are your thing, Turkish Internet sensation Salt Bae has his own gaff in The Galleria on Al

Opening page: Rosewater Opposite: Parmigiana This page from top left: Buddha-Bar Beach; Hakkasan; Coya Abu Dhabi; Hamilton’s Gastropub Overleaf: Brunch in the Clouds

19 Restaurants

Maryah Island, and while he’s rarely in residence, the Nusr-Et team knows their stuff. Less star-studded but with a menu that has Australian master Kobe beef as a highlight, The Forge at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is worth a splurge. The crab cake and carnicero burger with wagyu beef and truffle, are a delicious alternative to a classic steak dinner.

Circle back to Mediterranean and European flavours via long-running seafood veteran, Fishmarket at InterContinental Abu Dhabi, where you’ll also find Circo, the award-winning Italian transplant from New York. Its deceptively simple slow-cooked veal and beef Bolognese with tagliatelle packs a hearty punch and the squid ink calamari risotto just begs to be shared. For comforting, home-style Italian food like mamma used to make, there’s only one choice in town – La Mamma at Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, another local legend. Equally good is Parmigiana at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, which offers contemporary staples, such as bruschetta, pasta, pizza and, of course, parmigiana, in a casual setting overlooking the corniche.

Francophiles craving classic French fare can’t go wrong with a trip to Bord Eau at Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al 20 Restaurants

Beri, Abu Dhabi. The interiors are reminiscent of a grand château, but the food is less intimidating. Try the gratinated onion soup and double up on mains with an impeccably executed Chateaubriand. French bistro food in a contemporary setting is to be had out at Bentley Bistro & Bar at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island. Steak tartare and beef Bourguignon are our picks, whatever the season. Another cuisine making waves in the UAE hails from the land of olives, oregano and all things Bacchanalian, Eat Greek Kouzina at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island is your pit-stop for a journey through culinary history. It’s about more than moussaka - soutzoukakia meatballs, octopus with eggplant mousse and kleftiko lamb are all must-tries.

We would be remiss if we didn’t dedicate some space to Arabic cuisine and naturally, Abu Dhabi has an option on every corner. If you’re desperate to try authentic Emirati cuisine, start with Al Fanar at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal’s Venetian Village. Bring your appetite and feast on dishes including fish biryani, a hearty chicken thereed, where a flavourful stew is ladelled on top of thin Arabic bread, and save room for luqamat – an Emirati take on doughnuts, served

with date syrup. The views are pretty photogenic too. We also recommend Meshwari, an Arabic street food-styled casual restaurant chain with several outlets across the city. Showcasing food from across the region, the short and sweet menu includes the bestselling kheshkhash shawarma kebab, cauliflower moutabal, falafel sandwiches and a super healthy freekeh salad.

If you’re in town for a weekend, then brunch has to be top of the to-eat list. For an exclusive experience, book Brunch in the Clouds at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, which invites 50 diners to the world’s highest suspended suite on the last Friday of each month. When the private elevator doors ping open, you’re free to devour the foodie delights in the rooms, from the cinema full of candy to the dedicated cheese and dessert room and caviar ice-bar. You can even head to the suite’s private spa for a shoulder massage. Iconic upscale Chinese brand, Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, at Emirates Palace, has also upped the Friday brunch ante with a bevy of star dishes, including the applewoodsmoked Peking duck with caviar starter, foie gras and crab xia long bao, and an almost-too-pretty-to-eat chicken floss savoury triangle.

Abu Dhabi Insider x JALBOOT

SAIL AWAY

Rediscover the charm of Abu Dhabi on a luxurious sightseeing cruise While rolling desert dunes, atmospheric souks and luxurious hotels may first spring to mind when thinking about Abu Dhabi, it pays to remember that the UAE capital is home to a clutch of islands offering everything from white sand beaches and wildlife sanctuaries to championship-standard golf facilities. As the savviest travellers will agree, one of the best ways to discover all the emirate has to offer is out on the water.

Sightseeing cruise specialist Jalboot operates a fleet of luxury ferries designed to take you on a wave of adventure.

Climb aboard one of its modern, air-conditioned vessels and get set to soak up panoramic views of the city, from Abu Dhabi Corniche to Yas Marina, and all the waterways in-between.

There is a range of ticket types and packages on offer, including a three-hour tour of Abu Dhabi, exploring all the must-see sites, a full city tour of Abu Dhabi exploring all the landmark attractions and a Corniche Sunset Cruise, during which you can watch the sun set over the city skyline. There are also a number of exclusive sightseeing experiences that’ll guide you to the capital’s most famous locations, including Yas Marina, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers and the Venetian Village.

Jalboot ferries accommodate up to 40 seated passengers and three crew members. The modern boats are fully-enclosed and feature large, panoramic windows that are ideal for showcasing the views as you recline in your plush, leather business class-style seat. For the VIP experience, you can make a private booking for a bespoke cruise around the city, or simply out to sea.

To find out more, visit Jalboot’s showboat in Abu Dhabi Mall, call 600 57 57 56 or visit jalboot.ae

CULTURE

TWO WORLDS ENTWINED Follow the cultural trail through Abu Dhabi’s past, present and future for a tale of two cities

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Opposite: Louvre Abu Dhabi This page, from top: Warehouse 421 (exterior and interior); ballet at Abu Dhabi Classics

amed in Time magazine’s list of the greatest places of 2018, Louvre Abu Dhabi has emerged as a cultural showstopper. It’s just one example of the emirate’s magnetic appeal, luring those keen to explore its heritage and artistic heart, while getting a coveted glimpse of the vision for the future.

Art looms large on the visitor agenda and, on the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, the exceptional collection of artworks, artefacts and on-loan pieces at Louvre Abu Dhabi is all wrapped up inside an architectural work of art – Jean Nouvel’s futuristic floating silver dome. The island location is also home to Manarat Al Saadiyat, a multigallery and performance space that hosts the annual Abu Dhabi Art show.

Hold fire for a few more years and the arts playbook will add a new chapter with the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum adding to their cultural voice.

A growing cadre of independent galleries are also expanding the scene, from new kid on the block Warehouse 421, tucked away in the port area, which is an advocate for emerging talent

within the local creative community, and Etihad Modern Art Gallery in Al Bateen, where you can pick up an arty souvenir and grab a coffee in the cool café.

If a whistle-stop visit is the reality, another must-see and global landmark is Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. A place of worship for up to 40,000, the exquisite structure features 82 domes and 1,000 pure white columns adorned with floral designs inlaid with semi-precious stones. Named after the founding father of the UAE, a guided tour is an imperative, not only to gawp at the world’s largest handmade carpet, but for behind-the-scenes insight into the Islamic faith and customs.

Swap large-scale sights for an altogether quainter experience at the open-air Abu Dhabi Heritage Village. Built to resemble a desert oasis community, take a gentle wander around the traditional barasti (dried palm frond) huts housing various exhibits, see local artisans in action and get a potted history of the emirate. The village has great views of the skyline.

The former home of the emirate’s ruling Al Nahyan family, and originally

“Culture, in musical form, is the modus operandi of the hugely popular annual Abu Dhabi Classics” 23 Culture

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“Abu Dhabi’s early wealth was fuelled not by oil, but by the pearl diving industry” a coral stone watchtower marking the city’s first settlement, the Qasr Al Hosn cultural foundation recently underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation, priming it for visitors.

Also paying homage to the ‘father of the nation’, albeit with a decidedly quirky flavour, is the Zayed Centre in Abu Dhabi city. Part of another heritage village site, the small but fascinating museum features a photo gallery and collection of intriguing memorabilia, including the late ruler’s face recreated in the world’s largest stamp mosaic.

Culture, in musical form, is the modus operandi of the hugely popular annual Abu Dhabi Classics concert series. Featuring world-class artists and orchestras, and running from September to April, concerts take place in the opulent setting of the Emirates Palace auditorium, over on Saadiyat Island and at Bin Hamoodah Fort in Al Ain. An historic coastal community, Abu Dhabi’s early wealth was fuelled not by oil, but by the pearl diving industry. Those days are long gone but visitors can learn about this incredibly challenging profession on the Abu Dhabi Pearl Journey – a 90-minute dhow cruise through the city’s eastern mangroves. Part history lesson, part

Opposite: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque This page from top: Abu Dhabi Heritage Village; Al Ain Palace Museum; the Photography Studio at Manarat Al Saadiyat

nature trip, you even get to shuck your own oyster in search of a pearlescent prize.

Back on dry land amid the shifting sands of the surrounding desert, a trip to the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is a oneof-a-kind opportunity to get a closer look at these fearsome and majestic hunting birds that have a long acquaintance with the region and its Bedouin people.

For those unfamiliar with Abu Dhabi’s geography, a road trip to its second city of Al Ain is a must-do. Home to not one but five UNESCO-listed cultural sites, the ‘garden city’ is an oasis-rich gem set amid the rocky backdrop of Jebel Hafeet, and can date human civilisation as far back as 2500BCE. Make time to visit the Al Ain Palace Museum, former home of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Built in 1937, it is typical of historical buildings of the UAE and presents a rare opportunity to tour once private rooms.

An hour’s’ drive out of Abu Dhabi in the other direction to Al Ain, the Emirates National Auto Museum is a real ‘as seen on TV’ (Top Gear, to be precise) hoot. Here, the world’s largest truck rubs bumpers with a gamut of American classics, customised Rolls-Royce saloons and much more.

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SHOPPING

OFF THE RAILS Trawl the malls, discover homegrown designers and browse for mementoes in the atmospheric souks

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ir-conditioned sanctuaries in the height of summer, entertainment hubs all year round and home to brands from the four corners of the earth, Abu Dhabi’s malls are a shopper’s delight.

If designer wear is your kryptonite The Galleria, Al Maryah Island is sure to rob you of your self-control. We say give in and go try on some of the wearable riches from the many luxury fashion, watch and jewellery brands housed here, including Alexander McQueen, Graff, Van Cleef & Arpels, Richard Mille and Mulberry. A true lifestyle destination, the mall has a full calendar of stylish events, and even dining there is a special experience, with Abu Dhabi outposts of upscale eateries including La Petite Maison and Coya.

Over at the Etihad Towers development, Avenue at Etihad Towers offers a super luxurious boutique shopping experience, with a great selection of luxury brands including the world’s first Stephane Rolland store, A. Lange &Söhne and the likes of Hermès and Chloé, among others.

Moving away from the designer label-loaded, the largest mall in the city, and second-largest in the UAE, Yas Mall anchors the retail experience on Yas Island with more than 400 high-end and high-street names spread across 235,000 square metres of east-meets-west designed space. All things to all people, with Apple, Lego, Pottery Barn and the House of Fraser department store a microcosm of what’s on offer, it’s (literally) a one-stop shop. A requisite cinema complex, kids’ play areas and enough foodie venues to fill the hunger void any time of day, tick all the other boxes.

One of the city’s original mega malls and occupying a prime position on the Corniche Breakwater, Marina Mall is another retail big boy, amply stocked with the likes of H&M and Levi’s through to Tiffany & Co. and uber-stylish UAE fashion brand Sauce. Pick up a fragrant memento at Arabian Oud or Yas Perfumes, where traditional scents are presented in collectible bottles. It’s also home to the jump-tastic Bounce trampoline park.

Connected to the Beach Rotana Hotel and right on the waterfront, Abu Dhabi Mall is another city stalwart housing hundreds of shopping opportunities.

Virgin Megastore is your go-to for gadgets and gifts, while specialist stores include La Casa Del Habano for cigar aficionados, Paspaley for pearls and Persian House for carpets. Homegrown brand Bateel is great for a coffee and a box of plump juicy dates from its extensive range (the orange-peel stuffed variety is divine) while Laduree is simply macaroon heaven.

Nestled within an established residential community, Al Wahda Mall is a popular choice for families with more than 350 brands, including all the usual international suspects, complemented by lots of local flavour. Browse through the huge literary collection at Magrudy’s bookstore, bag a fashion bargain at Brands For Less and grab some therapeutic lotions and potions at Solace Organics. Big kids can head to Golf World for all manner of golfing paraphernalia while little kids get to burn off excess energy at Wanasa Land for bowling, paintballing and rock climbing.

Rehydrate and sneak in a cheeky slice of delicious homemade cake at locally owned café Bloomsbury’s in between your purchases.

Opposite: Yas Mall This page from top: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island; Avenue at Etihad Towers; inside Yas Mall

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“Try on some of the wearable riches from the many luxury fashion, watch and jewellery brands”

Need to grab some last-minute goodies en route to the airport? Dalma Mall is the answer with 480 stores full of fab finds. Head to Al Jaber Optical for the latest eyewear collections and Mywalit for colourful travel accessories.

In the same direction is Mushrif Mall, where three floors, more than 200 retail outlets and entertainment areas means you won’t walk out without a little something. It’s also home to The Market, the city’s largest indoor fresh food emporium.

If you’re after some new swimwear or flip-flops for afternoons spent by the pool, Beyond The Beach at Khalidiyah Mall is sure to offer something to suit, while the Vintage Men’s Spa does a great line in male pampering treatments and Rivoli, Rolex and Hour Choice have timepieces to suit all budgets.

The concept boutique scene is also hotting up in the capital with a small but tempting collection of independent retailers selling quirky, cool and collectible items. Fashion-led Minbart in the Al Raha Beach community stocks pieces from up-and-coming local, regional and international designers, while Bits & Pieces in the Al Mushrif district is a repository of unique colourful homeware, décor and kitchen trappings.

Carefully curated clothing and accessories from the likes of Fenty by Rihanna and Beirut-based Sarah’s Bag to Tim Coppen and T by Alexander 28 Shopping

Wang are sought-after staples at The Luxury Arcade, a multi-brand boutique at World Trade Center Abu Dhabi.

We all love a good mall spree, but for a sense of authentically recreated tradition, check out Abu Dhabi’s souk culture.

The old Abu Dhabi open-air souk may a distant memory, gutted by fire in 2003, but its successor, The Souk at World Trade Center Abu Dhabi pays homage to times gone by with ornate wood detailing and Arabesque accents. Once inside, cast your eyes up to admire the stunning slatted ceiling, which bounces the sun’s rays off the blue mosaic-tiled floor. The three floors populated by individual boutiques are a treasure trove of Arabian memorabilia and mementoes.

A bazaar attached to a five-star hotel (the Shangri-la Hotel Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi), The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri is a contemporary take on the Arabian market theme, with a touch of European influence thrown in for good measure. The waterside setting includes abras to ferry you along the man-made canal, a plethora of waterfacing dining options, plus shops and pop-up stalls selling everything from jewellery and accessories to perfumes.

Follow your nose to Amouage to stock up on oud-based fragrances, pick up a cashmere pashmina or three at Toshkhana, or treat yourself to some handcrafted jewellery at Exquisite Antiques Gallery.

This page, from top: The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri; The Souk at World Trade Center Abu Dhabi; Marina Mall

ACTIVITIES

READY FOR ACTION From thrill-a-minute theme parks to watersports galore and desert adventures, activities abound

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peed demon or sun seeker, we all get our adrenaline kicks in different ways and a visit to Abu Dhabi sets the pulse racing on all counts. Believe the hype on Yas Island where the action is always fast-paced. This entertainment nirvana is home to the 5.55-kilometre Hermann Tilke-designed Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November. Off the track, its postrace concert line-up boasts legendary alumni, such as Prince, Beyoncé, The Rolling Stones and Rihanna. The circuit also hosts a full programme of yearround on-track activities, headlined by in-demand driving experiences behind the wheel of an Aston Martin GT4 or single-seater Formula 3000.

The thrills don’t end there, and petrolheads of all ages are bound to have Ferrari World Abu Dhabi on their bucket list. Home to the world’s fastest rollercoaster – the Formula Rossa, which hits 240km/h in under five seconds, it also has a host of (ahem) gentler rides to try, including the 1.5-kilometre-long Flying Aces rollercoaster, featuring the world’s largest loop and steepest incline.

The latest Yas experience to open, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is a world first and home to six immersive lands designed to satisfy all your animation and super hero dreams. Hang out with Tom and Jerry, Wonder Woman, Batman, Scooby-Doo and friends on any one of 29 state-of-the-art rides and hairraising experiences.

Wet and wild adventures are all the rage at Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, which has four levels of splash-tastic fun to slip and slide through. Freefall down

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Opening page: Yas Waterworld These page, from top: Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi; Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

the super steep Jebel Drop slide, get shot through a giant tunnel on the sixperson Falcons Falaj tornado raft ride, or dip your toe in the water at Cinesplash, the region’s first ever water cinema.

Sun worshippers and those looking for quality downtime can check out the local action from the comfort of a sun lounger. Yas Beach, the island’s only private beach club, has cool cabanas, plus stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and windsurfing for those who can’t sit still. Alternatively, glam it up at Saadiyat Beach Club on Saadiyat Island, with its 650-square-metre pool, or, head further out of the city to hang with the pretty party people at Blue Marlin – an all-day Friday brunch meets beach meets international DJ affair.

The water beckons once more in the eastern mangroves, a protected nature reserve where a two-hour Sea Hawk kayaking excursion is both educational and active, plus it’s definitely one

non-theme park related trip that the kids will love. Fellow operator, Noukhada, also runs a monthly full moon tour as well as coastal kayaking experiences. A less strenuous experience, but one with serious va-va-voom, is a sightseeing tour with Jalboot, whose fleet of modern craft will zip you along the coast with a trio of tours that take in Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the highlights of Yas Island, or guide you on a romantic sunset cruise along the corniche. If that gives you an appetite for more, then Abu Dhabi Dhow Cruise organises two-hour dinner tours in a traditional dhow – for perfect city coastline views and plenty of delicious Arabic food.

Al Ain also has its own aquatic adrenaline kicks at Wadi Adventure, the region’s first man-made whitewater rafting, kayaking and surf facility, nestled in the foothills of the rugged Jebel Hafeet.

Fab fact: the park’s 1.7-kilometre-long kayaking channel network is the world’s

“Yas Links is the city’s only links course that benefits from a stunning coastal setting” longest. And former private nature reserve turned luxe island community, Sir Bani Yas, offers a full card of kayaking expeditions and other waterbound delights at its Desert Islands Watersports Centre.

Land and water pursuits are the basis for a great day out at Al Forsan International Sports Resort, where wakeboarding, shooting, karting, paintball and horse riding are just a few of the activities on offer. Bowling is also big business in the UAE and Abu Dhabi has its fair share of alleys.

The mammoth 40-lane Khalifa International Bowling Centre at Zayed Sports City is the mother of all destinations with bumpers and ramps to help even the score for junior bowlers, plus lane-side restaurant service to stave off those hunger pangs mid-game.

The same complex boats the Olympicsized Zayed Sports City Ice Rink.

Amateur golfers will love the city’s world-class courses and the chance to test themselves on the National Course at Abu Dhabi Golf Club, which is where the annual Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship (a European PGA Tour event) is played by some of the sport’s biggest names. Yas Links is the city’s only links course that benefits from a stunning coastal setting – hopefully it won’t distract you from your game.

Meanwhile, a beachfront course is yours to play at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club on Saadiyat Island. The captivating course, designed by Gary Player, features three saltwater lakes and 60 bunkers. You may even spot dolphins frolicking in the sea. Lastly, a challenging all-sand 18 holes (and browns instead of greens) make Al Ghazal Golf Club a unique

This page, from top: Blue Marlin; Yas Links; kayaking at Desert Islands Watersorts Centre

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Clockwise from left: Sundowner Safari with Arabian Adventures; Yas Beach; Yas Marina Circuit driving experience

(and often frustrating) course to play.

Staying with the brown stuff, the thrill of sandboarding down a desert dune is soon eclipsed by dune driving (effectively hurtling up and down massive sand dunes in a four-wheel drive), camel rides and fascinating falconry demonstrations, which you can experience while on the same desert adventure.

Arabian Adventures is the pick of a number of locally-based companies to offer this and other fun desert experiences, and it’s the rare visitor who turns down an opportunity to go on their Sundowner Safari.

This incorporates the full shebang: traverse the dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve to a Bedouin-style camp, where traditional entertainment and a Arabic-style three-course buffet awaits. Then take 32 Activities

part in a spot of star-gazing before heading back to your hotel.

On, below and above the smooth surface of the desert sands lies a teeming mass of wildlife. The impressive Al Ain Zoo, which celebrated its 50 th anniversary in 2018, is all about education and conservation.

Visit its sprawling facility and you’ll easily while away a good few hours observing more than 4,000 animals.

Furthermore, its highly regarded breeding programme includes a growing Arabian sand cat community and the endangered Dama Gazelle.

Back in Abu Dhabi city, a smaller but equally enchanting experience is to be had at Emirates Park Zoo. The first private zoo in the country it is home to eight distinctive zones including snake alley, a giraffe park, reptile house and primate parade, along with educational

experiences like its popular Breakfast with the Parrots.

One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the desert landscape is up in the air. Falcon Aviation, which operates out of Marina Mall heliport, offers luxury helicopter tours of the city, while Seawings operates scenic seaplane flights that take off and land back at Yas Marina. A family-friendly alternative to taking flight is a spin on the Marina Eye Ferris wheel.

Get a unique perspective on the city skyline in one of its 42 air-conditioned capsules (there’s a VIP option for those after a premium viewing point).

Daredevils of all ages can enjoy a simulated skydive at Spacewalk Indoor Skydiving at Abu Dhabi Country Club where the massive wind tunnel lets you throw some crazy shapes.

DISCOVER THE YAS EXPERIENCE IN ABU DHABI WITH SOFITEL Embark on an exciting journey in Abu Dhabi with Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche

Package inclusions: • • • •

Two-Night stay in a Superior Room Complimentary buffet breakfast for two at the Corniche All Day Dining Complimentary dinner buffet for two at the Corniche All Day Dining Two tickets during the stay to access either Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld or Warner Bros World • Complimentary shuttle to the choice of Yas attraction • Complimentary shuttle to Marina Mall, Louvre Museum, Saadiyat and Corniche Beaches Explore Abu Dhabi from AED 1210* net per room for two persons *Rates are subject to availability at the time of requests and subject terms and conditions.

Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche – Corniche East Road For reservations: Tel +971 2 813 7777 Email: H7507@sofitel.com www.sofitelabudhabicorniche.com

Abu Dhabi’s Finest Urban Resort The St. Regis Abu Dhabi soars to new heights of splendour and service beyond expectation. Located on the Corniche with a 200 metre stretch of pristine beach, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf which is home to the Nation Riviera Beach Club at the finest address in the heart of the city.

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