Think you can’t afford to go to Abu Dhabi? Think again – it’s not as expensive as you think to stay in luxury.
Abu Dhabi is one of the richest cities in the world, and Australian’s expect it to be expensive. Abu Dhabi is ranked as the 68th most expensive city for living in the world, which is quite low considering our own Sydney and Melbourne ranks in the top eight.
The upside for us is that we can afford a taste of that good life while we’re over there.
Here’s our pick of top eight luxury hotels for every budget.
8. Grand Continental Flamingo Hotel, East Corniche
The Grand Continental Flamingo (GCF) is a budget range hotel but it’s right in the middle of the action being close to the financial and commercial districts as well as Corniche.
7. Centro Yas Island, Yas Island
Self proclaimed business hotel, Centro is an affordable lifestyle hotel, but doesn’t skimp on services.
Located in the famous Yas Island, minutes away from the F1 Racetrack, Yas Links Golf Club, Yas Southern Marina, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and Yas Beach just to name a few.
6. La Meridien, Tourist Club Area
This mid-range 4 star hotel is only minutes away from the CBD, shopping malls and historical areas whilst enjoying a resort feel.
The Meridien’s facilities include swimming pools, a spa and a nightclub. Biggest stand out is the Meridien Village with its eclectic range of popular, al-fresco bars, cafes and restaurants.
5. Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers, Tourist Club Area
The Beach Rotana hotel offers modern luxury with traditional Arabian hospitality. They have a private beach, PADI dive centre, children’s play area, tennis and squash courts, pools and an amazing spa. The place to stay for amazing sea views.
4. Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana, East Corniche
The Al Maha Arjaan offers conveniently located studio apartments and suites at amazing prices. All apartments are air-conditioned, well furnished and well serviced with some great city views.
3. Le Royal Meridien, East Corniche
One of Abu Dhabi’s most luxurious hotels and really all about making an impression comes Le Royal Meridien.
It’s an architectural landmark and the service is first class. There are first class restaurants and they have the city’s only revolving bar giving you awe inspiring 360 degree views of the city.
2. Shangri-La, Al-Maqtaa
Fitting into Abu Dhabi’s traditional cityscape whilst standing out, that’s the most apt description of this beautiful hotel. Shangri-La Hotel’s garden landscape and water views transport you to another world.
The Shang is all about luxury experiences, there are gondolas paddling along the Venice like system of waterways, a 1km private beach, five swimming pools, two health clubs, a shopping mall and some of the city’s finest restaurants and bars.
1. Emirates Palace, West Corniche
Opened in 2005 to rival Dubai’s Burj Al Arab, the Emirates Palace Hotel is Abu Dhabi’s answer to a “seven star hotel”.
The hotel sits in an elevated position above the sea and surrounding gardens in solitary splendour at the western end of the city. The building is impressive at 1km in length featuring 114 domes, 140 elevators and 2000 staff and rumoured to be the most expensive hotel ever built.
Tips to get more bang for your Dirham
Peak season is November to February, but if you consider travelling during the low season of June to August, you can save up to 75% on hotel deals.
Stay in touch with your travel agent – let them know where you want to go for the next year, they’ve often got some good deals on offer and you’ll be the first person they call.
Make sure rates are all-inclusive, many hotels charge taxes and service charges on top of the price advertised.
If you’re planning a longer stay, try renting an apartment; some city hotels even offer serviced apartments with full access to hotel facilities.
Some of the city’s top restaurants offer special dining discounts, there’s even some that offer an ‘early bird’ discount for those that dine before 8:30pm.
Hotel spas also often offer special deals to guests, so get your relaxation on in a budget.