2 minute read
Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi
BACKGROUND Pre-pandemic, this hotel had pretty much cornered the business and leisure markets due to its vast facilities, not only catering to holidaymakers and weekend breakers, but corporates running everything from team-building events and client iftars to meetings and more. With Abu Dhabi now opening up to both UAE and international visitors again, the hotel is well positioned to meet growing demand.
WHAT’S IT LIKE? The hotel has all the grandeur one expects of Jumeirah, but with a distinct Abu Dhabi edge. The finishings are plush – there is a lot of gold and marble – and there is a strong Arabian theme, in keeping with the cultural heritage of the UAE capital. Low rise, but sprawling, the blue glass exterior sits like a wave on beautiful Saadiyat Island.
WHERE IS IT? A short drive from Abu Dhabi city and the international airport and on the same island as the now famous Louvre Abu Dhabi. It’s also adjacent to Yas Island, home to multiple theme parks and the Yas Marina Circuit.
ROOMS I stayed in a one-bedroom Ocean Suite, which was a whopping 88 sqm. The technology was not quite what I hoped – I love a room where I can play music through a Bluetooth speaker and I’m a sucker for in-room gadgets – but it did feature essentials such as co ee and tea, a fridge, and an expansive lounge, dining BEST FOR Its vast facilities and quality dining
DON’T MISS Sunset at the beach.
PRICE From AED 800 per night ++ for a Deluxe Room
CONTACT +971 (0)2 811 4444; jumeirah.com
and working space, plus two balconies. The bathroom was enormous with separate bath and shower rooms and a double sink. I loved the walk-in wardrobe where I could hide all my clothes and my suitcase!
FOOD AND DRINK Breakfast at ‘White’ felt like a decadent pre-pandemic experience, with a vast bu et on o er. Dining options are varied and the quality, fantastic. I ate lunch at the Pool Bar where even the salad felt like premium restaurant quality and the menu was very extensive. Italian venue Mare Mare (pictured) is a laid back, chic Mediterranean diner, which is easy to stroll into for a casual swimwear-clad lunch, or a more fine-dining a air for dinner. The expansive menu is authentic Italian, the ingredients fresh, and the quality superb.
BUSINESS The hotel’s ballroom can accommodate up to 400 guests and the break-out meeting rooms can host up to 100, so when social distancing rules are relaxed and events start to happen in person, these well-equipped event spaces will deliver for a range of occasions. Wi-Fi is reliable so makes remote working easy.
LEISURE Kitted out with a fantastic gym under Bodyism, and a very grand spa, there are plenty of wellness options. Watersports are available too, so there’s never a dull moment.
VERDICT An island retreat boasting one of the most spectacular beach views in the UAE and ideal for corporate get-togethers.
