Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Abu Dhabi

BACKGROUND Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas opened in March 2018. Located on Abu Dhabi’s naturally blessed Saadiyat Island, it is a flagship property for Rotana, the largest UAE-based hospitality group.

WHAT’S IT LIKE? It’s much more than a resort; it’s a destination in its own right, with everything you need for a relaxing business or leisure stay in one idyllic location. As soon as you step into the expansive lobby where light is in abundance and the contemporary beach-inspired design is easy on the eye, you feel at total ease.

WHERE IS IT? Set on a spectacular 9km stretch of white-sand beach on an island that is home to indigenous Hawksbill turtles and cultural icon, Louvre Abu Dhabi. It’s such a beauty spot with uninterrupted Gulf views that you forget how close you are to the UAE capital’s major business districts, as well as entertainment hub, Yas Island. Abu Dhabi International is around 30 minutes by road.

ROOMS There are several room and suite categories, including Club Rotana rooms with extra privileges including lounge access, as well as 13 beach villas, which can be hired for small group events. We stayed in a Premium Seaview Room, which was decorated in light and neutral colours and felt like a spacious beach apartment. The balcony, work desk, sofa, walk-in shower and bath and complimentary WIFI were all appreciated.

FOOD AND DRINK There are seven dining venues and we tried five of them. There’s something for everyone, from satisfying gastropub classics at Hamilton’s and authentic Italian dishes, including pizzas, at Si Ristorante Italiano to delicious surf, turf and grills at Turtle Bay Bar &

Grill by the pool. If you fancy a bite late afternoon, I recommend you grab a comfy sofa, order some snacks and watch the sun set at Nasma Beachfront Bar; you won’t regret or forget it. Breakfast is served at all-day dining venue Sim Sim – the choice is huge and the outdoor terrace is a great spot for a laid-back meeting.

BUSINESS Choose from three banquet rooms, ideal for meetings and conferences, or the Almas Ballroom, which can seat up to 450 guests. There’s also The Lawn – a 510 sqm outdoor events venue.

LEISURE A decent gym with cardio and strength training equipment, massive outdoor pool, two tennis courts, mini golf and beach sports including kayaking. If you tag a family break onto your business trip, the kids will love Aladdin’s Cave – a club where highlights include a water slide, lazy river, cinema and teen zone.

VERDICT Although we were working during our stay, we really made the most of our downtime, thanks to the comprehensive leisure facilities, exceptional dining experiences and the stunning beach location. It made a business trip relaxing and fun, enhanced by the soothing ambience and breathtaking sunsets.

Gemma Greenwood

It’s much more than a resort; it’s a destination in its own right

BEST FOR A ‘bleisure’ trip – when your business is done, why not invite the family for the weekend?

DON’T MISS Sunset drinks at Nasma Beachfront Bar

PRICE From AED 808 (US$216) per night in December when booking direct

CONTACT Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi; tel +971 2 697 0000; rotana.com