The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
BACKGROUND The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is a contemporary hotel that tastefully blends The St. Regis brand’s century-old legacy with rich Emirati culture.
WHAT’S IT LIKE? The overall architecture highlights the true essence of Arabic design and art. The lobby is richly decorated, yet easy on the eyes.
WHERE IS IT? Situated in the heart of Abu Dhabi Corniche, the hotel is a 30-minute drive from the Abu Dhabi International Airport and two hours from the Dubai International airport. Additionally, it oers direct access to Nation Galleria Mall and is close to Marina Mall and World Trade Centre.
ROOMS I stayed in a Grand Deluxe suite, which comes with floor-to-ceiling windows that oer stunning views of the Corniche coastline and Abu Dhabi. The interiors are done in red and gold accents and feature local elements. The sitting area has hand-tufted wool carpeting and a dark wood desk wherein business travellers like me can check on their daily emails. There is the signature St. Regis king-size bed. A 24-hour St. Regis butler is available who takes care of all your requirements during the stay. FOOD AND DRINK You can’t come to The St. Regis Abu Dhabi and not eat at Villa Toscana. I absolutely enjoyed the traditional Italian fare, which featured regional specialities from Tuscany, Umbria, and Emilia-Romagna. If you are in the mood for a Middle Eastern feast, then head to Azura Panoramic Lounge. Located on the pool terrace, Azura is popular for its Arabic mezze menu. Other F&B options are The Terrace on the Corniche, The St. Regis Bar, Crystal Lounge and Cabana Beach Bar and Grill among others. The hotel takes its dining experience a notch higher with oerings like Helipad Sunset Supper, 255 metres in the air, and an exclusive brunch in the Abu Dhabi Suite, the world’s highest suspended suite.
MEETINGS There is a ballroom, which can be divided into three sections and five breakout rooms. For a grand occasion, there is the Al Mudhaif Ballroom and for small corporate meets, you can utilise the Liwa boardroom which can accommodate up to 12 guests. Outdoor events are organised at the scenic event lawn, overlooking the beach.
LEISURE The hotel’s Rémede Spa is one of the preferred wellness centres in the region. Along with 11 treatment rooms and a plethora of services, this wellness haven also has a café with an outdoor terrace, serving fresh juices and tonics, herbal elixirs, tea and coee, and quick bites. Other recreational facilities include the Exercise Room and the Nation Riviera Beach Club featuring a 200-metre private beach, cabanas, an infinity pool, gardens and a swim-up pool bar.
VERDICT A great luxury hotel in the heart of Corniche that is suitable for business as well as leisure travellers.
Ravi Lalwani
The overall architecture at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi highlights the true essence of Arabic design and art