With an upcoming two-day layover in Abu Dhabi approaching before our trip to the Maldives, we needed to stay somewhere we could rest up and relax, which is why we chose to stay at one the best hotels in Abu Dhabi, the luxurious Shangri-la Hotel, Qaryat al Beri. Not only was the Shangri-la, Abu Dhabi hotel close to the airport, a mere 15 minute drive, but it also had the most stunning unobstructed views of the Sheikh Zayad Grand Mosque. The only hotel in the entire city to have such an impressive view.
We were there for only two days so a lot of our time was spent at their beautiful infinity pool. Our favourite activity while at the Shangri-la, Abu Dhabi was to spend sunset hour watching the pink sky reflect off the pool water and darken on the river against the backdrop of the 82 impressive white marble domes of the mosque.
Our room, one of the 213 luxurious suites in the hotel, was beautifully appointed with middle eastern touches and a large bath. The spacious suite had an arch balcony looking over the river, towards the mosque. We spent our mornings sipping coffee and taking in the incredible views over the city available from The Shangri-la, Abu Dhabi.
The breakfasts in the morning catered to tastes from all over the world. We were impressed by the many choices, and the sheer abundance of food. Even the dessert section of the breakfast buffet was enormous, having its own section in the restaurant, complete with a chocolate fountain and revolving ice cream section.
Connected to the enormous hotel, is a shopping complex where you can shop middle eastern fares such as perfumes, clothing and carpets. You can walk 5 minutes through paths framed by palm trees or, The Shangri-la, Abu Dhabi provides a complimentary shuttle service in a traditional boat along a manmade river to the mall. Worth a visit for the experience alone!
With access to the club lounge, we enjoyed the offerings available throughout the day. From a generous lunch to free flow cocktails and canapes in the evening. The lounge was perfect for business travellers, or just guests keen to enjoy the comforts and ease of a lounge with a view of the mosque at sunset.
We couldn’t have chosen a more perfect hotel for our first stay in Abu Dhabi. We spent the entire time resting, relaxing and indulging in everything the luxurious hotel offered. Highly recommend you book The Shangri-la, Abu Dhabi for your next visit to the city.
