Glamour is part of the deal

Imagine after a long day inspecting a thousand shops simply dipping tired feet into a pool while a golden sun slowly sinks. The scenario happens often at Beach Rotana in Abu Dhabi.

Not only is the five-star hotel attached to one of the UAE capital’s largest malls, it is a mere credit card swipe from a plethora of retail opportunities.

Not to mention a tranquil spa, fitness centre and a – perhaps unlikely – strip of private beach, just minutes from bustling streets and 11 in-house restaurants.

If you want to balance serious retail recreation with convenient relaxation, Beach Rotana is a great pairing with Abu Dhabi Mall (www. adudhabi-mall.com).

The latter is not one of the newest complexes, but it’s a popular draw for 40,000 people a day in the former Tourist Club area.

A short taxi ride away, the World Trade Centre Souk and Mall (www.wtcad.ae) is a charismatic collection of shops and dining opportunities.

Set on the site of the city’s old Central Market – a much-loved shopping venue struck by fire – a mix of Arabic and contemporary architecture, along with public squares, retractable roof and rooftop gardens, give the complex a different feel.

You’ll find modern retailers such as Karen Millen alongside sellers of henna, spices and artefacts.

Remaining on-island, Al Wahda Mall (www.alwahda-mall.com) is a prime destination for domestic shoppers.

If you’re on a shopping mission, travel along Abu Dhabi’s attractive Corniche, where the city’s evolving waterfront skyline unfolds opposite pristine beaches and running and cycling opportunities.

At the end you’ll find the futuristic elegance of Etihad Towers and magnificent Emirates Palace hotel.

Turn towards the Breakwater