Abu Dhabi is famous for many things, from its wonderful winter weather to the pristine white-sand beaches and grandiose architecture, effortlessly blending contemporary luxury with rich cultural heritage.
Many of its five-star hotels are also conveniently located near to the city’s most iconic landmarks, whether that’s the sprawling Corniche, elaborate palaces or the world-famous Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
In this article, we explore six of these hotels – many of which feature MICHELIN-recommended restaurants – that not only promise indulgent holidays but also provide easy access to must-see cultural attractions, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of this city’s unique charm.
1. Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche
Near to: the Corniche
Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche epitomises French luxury with an Arabian twist, and the added advantage of an enviable waterfront location. The hotel’s elegant rooms offer panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, with the Corniche – a bustling promenade stretching over eight kilometres – within walking distance, where you have access to beautiful beaches, parks and scenic cycling paths, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Sofitel’s array of dining options includes Silk & Spice, a cheery MICHELIN-selected Thai spot serving up classics with subtle modern twists that’s a perfect place to unwind after a day of wandering by the water.
2. The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
Near to: Louvre Abu Dhabi
The opulence of The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort is second only to the seclusion of its Saadiyat Island location, which is also about 10 minutes away from the world-renowned Louvre Abu Dhabi. This beachfront paradise offers unrivalled access to a landmark that houses a fusion of Eastern and Western art under its distinctive Jean Nouvel-designed latticed dome. Whether you’re basking by the resort’s infinity pools, sharing Greek mezze plates on the olive tree-lined terrace at the resort’s MICHELIN-selected Mazi or exploring masterpieces at the Louvre, this luxurious beachfront retreat makes for a perfect cultural escape.ALSO FEATURED IN: 5 Best Beach Resorts in Abu Dhabi
3. ERTH Hotel
Near to: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Not only is ERTH Hotel sat near to Abu Dhabi’s most famous attraction, it’s also a cultural landmark in itself, as it was once the Armed Forces Officers Club, a dedicated recreational space for the officers of the UAE’s Armed Forces envisioned by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE. Today, this contemporary resort in a legacy building has been fully refurbished into a family-friendly property with more than 200 guestrooms, 42 suites and 13 villas, as well as a range of dining outlets and leisure facilities, not to mention a Blue Flag-certified private beach, impressive swimming pool and Al Fayy Garden, an indoor and outdoor recreational hub housing a mixed gym, six restaurants and event spaces.Also, a short drive away is the must-see Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which boasts spectacular white marble domes and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet. Known for its cultural significance and breathtaking beauty, it has become the ultimate symbol of the UAE’s Islamic heritage.
4. W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
Near to: Yas Island and Yas Marina Circuit
This five-star hotel has a lot going for it: it’s the only property of its kind that straddles a racetrack, but its architecture also stands out as a beacon of modernity, and it takes centre stage every year when the Formula One season finale rolls into town. Here, visitors can get some of the best views of the high-speed action. Its glass-fronted, sweeping futuristic form is eye-catching enough during the day, but as night falls the LED panels turn on, showcasing a synchronised animated light show.Inside, tuck into international flavours at its various dining outlets, enjoy refreshing drinks at the SUN Deck rooftop pool or book a treatment at the spa. Outside, surrounding Yas Island is also known for its year-round entertainment, from the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to relaxation sessions at Yas Beach.
5. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi
Near to: Qasr Al Watan
A true symbol of Arabian grandeur is Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi, which easily offers one of the most lavish, personalised stays in the city. It’s another landmark in itself, that’s not only the city’s most well-known hotel, but also home to two restaurants each with a MICHELIN star. Close by is also one of Abu Dhabi’s most impressive cultural landmarks, Qasr Al Watan, a working presidential palace that’s open to the public. The building stands as an icon on Abu Dhabi’s skyline as an exquisite example of Arabian heritage and artistry, while inside visitors will find exhibits offering a deep dive into the UAE’s governance, culture and intellectual history.After marvelling at the presidential palace, return to Emirates Palace to indulge in MICHELIN-starred dining at contemporary Cantonese spot Hakkasan, experience understated Italian elegance at MICHELIN-starred Talea by Antonio Guida and savour vibrant Indian flavours at MICHELIN-selected Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi.
RELEVANT: Get the full MICHELIN experience at these Abu Dhabi hotels
6. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
Near to: Etihad Towers
Conrad’s Abu Dhabi property lies within the city’s most recognisable towers, forming an integral part of this blossoming skyline. The sleek, ultra-modern hotel stands tall in the Etihad Towers complex in the heart of the capital, with quick access to Observation Deck at 300, Abu Dhabi’s highest vantage point, which provides panoramic views of the entire emirate and beyond.It’s also a hub for fine dining, with not one but four MICHELIN-selected venues, including Ray’s Grill for premium steaks and unparalleled city views, harbour-side Li Beirut for Lebanese cuisine, Moksh for traditional Indian flavours and rustic Spanish tapas at José by Pizarro, the chef’s first venture outside of London.
Illustration Image: Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi.
