Why Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi is The Ultimate Destination For Your Beachside Nuptials
Desire a beach wedding without compromising on the glamour? We’ve got you sorted…
There are the typical beach weddings: barefoot brides, salt-water wavy hair, grooms in open-collar linen and guests sitting on picnic rugs. But then there are the glamorous beach weddings: stunning gowns, sharply tailored suits, runway-ready hair, make-up unperturbed by the sea breeze, and guests who don’t get sand in their manicures.
The latter weddings are the type that Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi is renowned for. Situated in the Arabian Gulf, the natural island is famously known as the Middle East’s Leading Beach Destination for 12 years running, according to the World Travel Awards (think of them as the travel industry’s Oscars). But the fact that its sparkling white sands and glittering turquoise waters are wonders of nature is almost the least impressive aspect of this stunning location. It’s also home to a vast array of five-star hotels and restaurants, bringing a touch of the cosmopolitan to Mother Nature, and making it the perfect place for your dream destination wedding.
The island features six luxury hotels. Special mention goes to Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, an award-winning resort just waiting to host your ceremony and reception. Choose to celebrate your special moment outside on the beach lawn or indoors in the grand event space, and enjoy an indulgent array of international cuisines. Weddings here are an art. The dedicated team of wedding planners are passionate about ensuring your day goes down without a hitch, from the culinary offerings and floral arrangements to the entertainment and infusions of your personal style. No detail is too small. The resort can also arrange for a pastry-chef designed wedding cake to suit your colour palette, and also offers a range of photography services.
For a more intimate yet no less grand wedding, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort has everything you need to ensure your big day and those leading up to it are some of the most special of your life. The resort boasts nearly 4,000sqm of event space with views of the Arabian Gulf, but it’s the 3,000 sqm Regal Ballroom that steals the show with an ocean-view terrace.
Also on the island is Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, with its infinity pools, private beach and famed spa where treatments include aromatherapy, massage, facials and body treatments — all perfect for pre-wedding prep. Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas has 327 rooms and suites as well as 13 beach villas and seven modern dining options, including a rooftop bar. Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island is an all-inclusive resort ideal for families, and it also has an ethereal ballroom and a team of wedding specialists trained in turning fairy tales into reality. Last but not least, Nurai Island is just a 15-minute boat ride away; a little piece of private paradise where newlyweds can indulge in the oceanside spa, try five different dining venues, and join in on the many activities on offer, including jet skiing, water skiing, fishing, tennis, bike rides and many more.
Linger longer on the island with your guests, or send them home and kick off your honeymoon in your chosen hotel. There are plenty of romantic activities and attractions on Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi. Hold hands and take in the awe of the artworks in the Louvre Abu Dhabi and other soon-to-open museums; take a sunrise or sunset stroll along part (or all!) of the nine kilometres of natural beachfront; see if you can spot some of the island’s incredible wildlife, including Hawksbill turtles, bottlenose dolphins and Arabian gazelles; and practise your swing at the award-winning golf course (if we’ve learnt anything from the romcoms, asking for help on your golf swing is the ultimate romantic move).
Just 20 kilometres from Abu Dhabi airport, Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi makes destination weddings easy. Guests can fly in from all over the world, and you can fly out to on your dream honeymoon with ease. For a beach wedding that’s as chic and romantic as you are, it’s got to be Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi.
For more information visit saadiyatisland.ae
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s Bride Autumn / Winter 2023 Issue.