Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
Island Wonder
What it is
A frothy beachside getaway fronting the Arabian Gulf.
What it isn't
Too far from the action. It’s set directly on the Corniche Road; art lovers adore that the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a mere 18 miles away.
What we think
If your visions of Abu Dhabi hotels conjure a cold, skyscraping, “mine’s bigger and glossier than yours” mentality, you might want to think again. St. Regis has perfected not only the art of comfort abroad, but also the art of service. Guest rooms are clean-lined Mediterranean-inspired and tricked-out (down to the bidet); if you find it needing anything, even at 2 a.m., simply summon your butler, a trademark of St. Regis. Repeat guests adore that the hotel sits on an immaculate stretch of sand and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.
You're here because
You play golf like a poor man's Rory McIlroy, but you’ve never played on Emirati soil. None other than Gary Player designed the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, the first UAE course to sit directly on the shore.
The Moment
Sitting outdoors amid a chain of floating pool pavilions, the salty breeze in your hair, you think you’ve found the ideal place to catch the sunset. As your waiter brings you your braised wagyu short ribs, you know you did.
Restaurants & Bars
Olea - all-day Mediterranean cuisine with panoramic views
The Drawing Room - afternoon tea & baked desserts
Sontaya - asian fusion
55&5, The Grill - contemporary grill & lounge
The Manhattan Lounge - cocktails on the terrace
Location
A mere 18 miles southeast of Abu Dhabi International Airport, and 93 miles northeast of Dubai International. In other words: you’ve got choices.