This Could Possibly Be The Most Luxurious Staycation Destination In The UAE
Spanning picturesque vistas of the Arabian Gulf and adorned with extravagant décor, Emirates Palace is where the term “royal treatment” takes on a whole new meaning
A stone’s throw from the grand Qasr Al Watan on the western end of Abu Dhabi Corniche sits the luxurious Emirates Palace, an architectural masterpiece surrounded by lush green, landscaped gardens. Inside, the gold-laden interiors and lavish chandeliers welcome one into a fantasy world of grandeur, with no corner short of royal. Owned by award-winning Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, the five-star hotel is renowned for its warm, Emirati hospitality and attention to detail.
The building was designed by famed British architect John Elliott in collaboration with Reza Rahmanian of HDC Architects, with the design a nod to Islamic architectural elements such as balance, geometry and proportion. Since its launch in 2005, the property has welcomed A-list guests by the likes of Will Smith, Naomi Watts and Orlando Bloom.
Built upon an area of one million square metres, the vision was to combine history and modernity, while promoting traditional values and cultural heritage. Deep openings, high arches, decorative shapes, long hallways, terraces and high ceilings decorated with inlays of gold represent the ancient Arab past. Mother-of-pearl and crystals adorn the corners.
The interiors, inspired by Arabian style with Andalusian architectural influences, follow the local ambience of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Featuring palatial-style furnishings and ample space, the Khaleej Suite may just be what tranquillity looks like. From world-class bedding to feather-soft bathrobes, here, every personal need is catered to.
The colour palette is a blend of bright golden and sunrise yellow, noting inspiration from the sands of the Arabian Desert, while the exterior features sparkling silver fountains and green gardens, reflecting the oriental character of the hotel.
If that’s not impressive enough, the hotel is the only one worldwide to have a gold leaf specialist as part of its in-house team, who is responsible for preserving the palace’s gilded ceilings and over one million square metres of 24-carat gold leaf.
Home to an array of culinary destinations, highlights of the hotel include the newly reopened intimate, beachside spot BBQ Al Qasr and fine dining Indian restaurant Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi.
The former boasts expansive al fresco views of the Arabian Gulf, serving the finest seafood and grills, while the latter offers classic dishes with a contemporary twist.
Famed for exquisitely crafted delicacies, Le Café is another not to miss – with artisanal pastries and cakes complemented by coffee and herbal infusions from around the world, the elegant café can be found inside as well as by the fountains at the front of the giant property. Perhaps the most interesting speciality here is the 23k gold-flaked Palace Cappuccino.
Over at the award-winning wellness spa awaits a memorable holistic Bespoke couple’s treatment, personalised completely based on pressure preference and area of choice. Here, the experienced masseuse is on a mission to restore balance and a sense of true serenity through premium, scented products comprising ginger and other natural extracts, fragrant body oil, relaxation techniques and a special sequence of movements tailored to liking, with an Arabian touch.
Complete with Moroccan-inspired interiors, dim golden lighting and calm-inducing music, the spa also features a traditional hammam area that is well appointed with two Jacuzzis, two steam rooms, heated marble and an ice cave.
Overlooking crystal blue waters, guests can also book a private beach cabana for the day; ideal for an intimate hideaway.
Dazzling décor and pristine, mesmerising views aside, what really makes this hotel a gem is the friendly, shrewd staff, who are genuinely keeping tabs on your experience to make sure no stone is left unturned.
To book, call 02 690 9000 or visit mandarinoriental.com