Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

BACKGROUND Conrad, a luxury brand in the Hilton portfolio, raised its flag at Etihad Towers in 2020. The hotel was formerly operated by the Jumeirah Group.

WHAT’S IT LIKE? Impressive. Mirroring the size and scale of the striking towers the hotel occupies, its lobby is vast with magnificent lighting and windows revealing panoramic coastal views. Service is attentive and friendly, and on arrival, a welcome drink and cold towel are served on a tray while you check in. I noticed the sta were dressed immaculately, which reflects well on the luxury brand. Décor is modern and elegant.

WHERE IS IT? The hotel occupies the magnificent Etihad Towers on Abu Dhabi’s West Corniche. It’s 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi International, around 20 minutes from Yas and Saadiyat Islands, and 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

ROOMS There are 377 rooms and suites with sea views. I stayed in a King Deluxe Room with Sea View featuring floor-to-ceiling windows looking out to the Corniche and beyond – an inspiring view to wake up to before work. It was tastefully decorated with neutral tones and pale greens and featured a large work desk and chair, chaise lounge by the window, lots of wardrobe space, plus a sizeable bathroom with a double basin, walk-in shower and high-quality amenities Japanese and Italian. I dined at contemporary Japanese restaurant Tori No Su, where sushi and teppanyaki menus are available. I was on the halfboard package, which includes a set menu. I opted for the creamy Yuzo Miso Burrata, grilled salmon with Ponzu sauce, and a selection of Mochi ice cream – all delicious. I also dined at Sole which serves Italian classics and o ers outdoor seating overlooking the beach and pool. My guest, who is half Italian, said the pizza was deliciously authentic. Breakfast is a sizeable bu et, with eggs cooked to order, served at all-day dining venue Rosewater. I also enjoyed a tasty Caesar salad, poolside, at Nahaam. You can’t stay at this hotel without a trip in the elevator to the 74th floor, where sunset drinks at the Observation Deck at 300 are a must. They also serve afternoon tea here and the views are spectacular.

BUSINESS There are 13 meeting rooms with flexible set-up options and a 1,000-person capacity Mezzoon Ballroom, all located on Podium Level 4. For client meetings, there are plenty of restaurant choices.

LEISURE With three pools and a private beach, plus the Conrad Spa with 13 treatment rooms, a Hammam suite and rasul chamber, this is an urban sanctuary. The large gym is well kitted out with strength and cardio equipment, but plan your workout timings carefully as it doesn’t open until 0600 and closes in the afternoon for fogging. The hotel provides direct access to Avenue at Etihad Towers, home to luxury brands like Cartier and Hermès, and handily, a Waitrose.

VERDICT If you have meetings in Abu Dhabi city, this hotel is the perfect luxury base, with all you need under one roof, from multiple dining options and business facilities to quick access to leisure facilities. This hotel screams ‘bleisure’, thanks to its urban resort vibe, so tag on a day or two of downtime if you have the chance.

Gemma Greenwood

If you have meetings in Abu Dhabi city, this hotel is the perfect luxury base

in cool bottles shaped like the towers. I used the dry-cleaning service, which was very e icient, as was the complimentary wifi. There were plenty of plugs and sockets and it felt spacious and luxurious – a welcome retreat after a busy day of meetings.

FOOD AND DRINK You are spoiled for choice with 12 restaurants and bars, including 24x7 room service, with cuisines spanning Lebanese, Latin American,

BEST FOR Its location DON’T MISS Observation Deck drinks PRICE From Dhs655 per night (o peak) CONTACT Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE; +971 2811 5555; hilton.com