LAST-MINUTE STAYCATION

Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi

Experience the royal treatment at this regal resort

Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi is a hotel that needs no introduction, but seeing as these sorts of reviews come with one as standard, let’s dive in.

THE LOCATION

Found at the glitzy end of Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, Emirates Palace has some pretty swanky neighbours. To one side, there’s Qasr Al Watan, a stunning piece of architecture that serves as the site of the UAE’s Presidential Palace. On the other side of the road, there’s the cloud bothering clutch of skypiercers, Etihad Towers. And before it, 1.3 kilometres of immaculate private coastline.

THE LOOK AND FEEL

You have to make a conscious effort to not use the word ‘palatial’ when describing the property. It’s not easy, the definitive qualities are politely screaming the word at you from every direction. But it suffices to say that it is on a completely different level to any other hotel in Abu Dhabi, likely the whole of the UAE. THE FACILITIES

There’s a massive gym; two separate pool complexes on each hemispheric wing — one has what amounts to a water park complete with slides, kids’ club and lazy river; the other has a meandering stream, hot tub, swim-up bar and overwater hammocks; you can ride camels along the beach at dusk, play tennis or padel or beach volleyball, do yoga, have a bonfire brunch at a pool bar or just go for a meditative stroll through the gardens.

THE ROOMS

We stayed in a panoramic sea view suite which was near enough the same floor space as entire hotels we’ve stayed in while backpacking in Europe. There’s a separate living room, bedroom, and balcony terrace. There are of course more modest rooms, that also come with balconies and handsome views of either the Corniche’s towerscape or beach and garden.

THE FOOD AND DRINKS THE ROOM RATES

Standard rooms start at around Dhs1,581 and the particular suite we stayed in is available at a rate of Dhs4,221. There are offers of course – until September 30, you’d find discounts on half-board and cut price costs (from Dhs1,000) available exclusively to UAE residents.

On the grounds for your tastebud tantalising pleasure, there’s an outstanding Italian restaurant called Talea, from Michelin star-winning chef Antonio Guida; a multiple What’s On Awardwinning Indian restaurant – Martabaan form renowned culinary kingpin, Hemant Oberoi; epic, MENA 50 Best recognised, Cantonese restaurant, Hakkasan; and traditional Middle Eastern hospitality and local Arabian cuisine at Mezlai.

You can book your stay now at mandarinoriental.com. Tel: (0)2 690 8888.