Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi

Hotel description

A rapidly diversifying economy and constant development are helping Abu Dhabi step out from the shadow of its better-known sister, Dubai. A prime location on the Persian Sea and lots of green space haven’t hurt either. Naturally, travelers of all types are taking note. They won’t be disappointed by the sprawling Qaryat Al Beri complex, which includes the luxurious Shangri-La Hotel. Among the offerings are a private beach, several pools, a full-service spa, gyms, landscaped gardens, and a traditional souk, which lets shoppers browse the wares for sale via gondola. Residences are available as well, for those who want to indefinitely extend their stay.

Decorated inside and out in tastefully expensive beige and brown, the hotel mixes classic elements of Arabian architecture, including carvings and curved arches, with modern comforts like AC and carpeting. Breathtaking excess abounds, from the way the lighting at night plays up the palatial features to the lobby with enough space for a soccer match. Well-proportioned standard rooms and comfortably large suites function as impeccable, individual oases, replete with amazing views, either toward the sea, with its incredible sunsets, or toward the city, with its ever-growing skyline.

Regal accommodations like these pride themselves on catering to any wish, which explains why the many on-site restaurants offer a variety of international and local dishes in a wide-array of settings, from casual to four-star. Although the hotel advises smart casual dress, finery certainly wouldn’t be frowned upon in this opulent atmosphere.