Last-minute staycation

Family fun at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers has a reputation for delivering on its promise of luxury. With a huge portfolio of awardwinning restaurants, a spa, beach club and Gulf-facing infinity pool, it ticks a lot of those top holiday boxes. But how does it compare as a destination for families?

Hollywood big-shots, the Etihad Towers represent some of the most cinematic components of Abu Dhabi’s spire-studded skyline. Found at the western edge of the Corniche’s golden shoreline, and just a short walk away from the Presidential Palace, these hyper-modern monoliths occupy capital real estate.

The look and feel

There’s nothing understated here. Opulence and splendor are deservedly on full and unashamed display from the lobby to the 74th floor observation deck. Design touches such as the grand artwork and marbled facades are clear markers of class, but there’s also a warmth to it. It’s an aspect mirrored in the service of the resort staff, who retained all professionalism even when faced with the decorum fail of a four-year-old skidding across the reception area in their socks.

The facilities

Gastronomy is a big reason to visit this hotel with 12 excellent restaurants and bars on site, and importantly most of them are actively family friendly. There’s a large dedicated children’s pool and a sheltered play area for the kids. Plenty of traditional bucket and spade fun can be had on the beach, and if parents need an escape, the spa has 13 treatment rooms.