Last-minute staycation

Dubbed the first all-inclusive luxury resort in the capital, Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island is a fun family seaside holiday

Discover Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island

The location

Those in the know are already fully aware of the magic of Saadiyat Island. You really feel like you are getting out of town, even though the city is just minutes away. The real selling point of the resort, in addition to its unique all-inclusive aspect, is its enviable stretch of beach – with nothing but clear green sea water to gaze out at. There’s also a cute little beach library in case you forgot to bring a book.

The look and feel

With elaborate glass lighting fixtures, a huge blue glass arch in the lobby and ornate seating Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island will leave you feeling cocooned in elegance.

The facilities

This is being hailed as the first all-inclusive in Abu Dhabi and it launched in the capital in style. Check out the tranquil spa, walk along the pristine private beach or play in the resort’s own water park. There’s also a very extensive fitness schedule including yoga, CrossFit, and an aqua workout featuring an underwater trampoline. We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the bartenders, who not only balance drinksladen trays but do it while whizzing around the property on in-line skates.

The rooms

The deluxe garden rooms are very colourful, with huge gold-accented royal blue closets, a royal blue tile bedroom wall, luxurious marble shower and lots of gold and blue accents, like a blue sink and giant mirror. Nice touches include an in-room weaved bag to take to the pool, complete with several pairs of flip-flops.

The food and drinks

The aim on checking in is to leave your wallet in the room. Of course, there are high-end options available (cocktails and grapes, for example) that bear additional cost, but it’s up to you whether to order them. There are six restaurants, including all-day restaurant Turquoise, Mediterranean venue Mermaid, pizza and pasta spot L’Olivo and, our favourite, Aja Asian & Teppenyaki restaurant.

The room rates

Rates vary depending on your room choice, but an all-inclusive deluxe garden view room starts at Dhs1,470 per night.

Recent changes

Since the beginning of February, the resort’s four a la carte restaurants are now open to the public.

The details

Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 4922222. For bookings, visit saadiyatisland.rixos.com

“THIS IS BEING HAILED AS

THE FIRST ALL-INCLUSIVE IN ABU DHABI AND IT LAUNCHED IN THE CAPITAL IN STYLE.”