Island Escape 2.0: The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort | Out of Office Autumn 2025
Grounded in heritage, surrounded by nature, and a patron of the arts, this luxury resort is continuously looking ahead, consistently redefining what it means to be the very best in beachfront holidaying here in the region – and beyond
Saadiyat Island – a destination so picturesque, so rich in culture and greenery, it could be mistaken for something generated by Artificial Intelligence. Surrounded by powdery white beaches and azure waters, this regional gem is renowned for its untouched shoreline, luxurious hotels, and residences; a true haven, secluded from the rush of city life.
As one of the United Arab Emirates’ most important cultural hubs, it is home to Louvre Abu Dhabi and the soon-to-be-opened Zayed National Museum, with the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi set to follow suit next year. Here, music, the arts, and heritage remain at the forefront of everyday life, alongside conservation initiatives and the excitement of what lies ahead in the months to come – and at the heart of this ever-evolving, culturally rich landscape lies The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort…
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort – an elegant beachfront escape that has coexisted harmoniously with the island’s wildlife since 2011.
From the moment you enter the grand lobby and are greeted by the endless expanse of crystal-clear floor-to-ceiling windows, the Arabian Gulf sparkling in the distance, a sense of inner peace washes over you. There are no man-made beaches or towering skyscrapers in sight; every detail, inside and out, has been designed to complement the island’s diverse ecosystem. Although the architecture boasts a distinctive Mediterranean feel, it seamlessly fits in with Mother Nature’s own aesthetic.
Palm tree-lined paths and lush gardens guide you throughout the property, allowing guests to wander in shaded comfort between the three outdoor pools – yes, there’s one exclusively for adults, with cabanas overlooking the stretch of private beach. You’re just as likely to spot a pod of dolphins playing in the distance as you are to encounter gazelles meandering past your sunbed – or even catch a glimpse of a bobbing turtle as you paddle through the shallows. A population of rare nesting hawksbills have called these shores home for decades; consider yourself lucky if you see one.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort boasts 376 rooms and suites, but its crowning jewel lies within its western wing: the two bedroom Majestic Suite, complete with a private infinity pool and wrap-around terrace. This secluded space is ideal for those who value privacy yet want to be within proximity of the resort’s many amenities – such as The St. Regis Athletic Club, which includes tennis, squash courts and an indoor lap pool; the expansive St. Regis Spa; the Sandcastle Kids’ Club, and the hotel’s signature butler service. A hallmark of The St. Regis’ dedication to hospitality, the traditional role has been reimagined with a dose of innovation for modern-day convenience: guests can contact their dedicated butler via instant messenger at any time of day (or night), ensuring their stay will be bespoke and unique to their individual needs.
Paying tribute to Abu Dhabi’s storied roots, elements of Emirati heritage are woven into every detail of The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.
Take The Manhattan Lounge, for example. Located just off the main foyer, it features a magnificent abstract mural – a visual storytelling of how the Bani Yas tribe, the namesake of Yas Island, founded Abu Dhabi. Painted gazelles within the artwork echo those still spotted scampering around the resort’s grounds today, captivating patrons as they pass through the bar’s heavy wooden doors. Here, the signature mocktail is a za’taar-infused take on the Bloody Mary, the classic beverage that was originally invented at The St. Regis New York in 1934, but has been revamped with a regional twist – which goes down a bit too easy.
Introducing Sophia Abu Dhabi, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort newest culinary offering.
Though it proudly honours its rich history that transcends continents, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort is not afraid to move with the times and embrace change, especially when it comes to its culinary offerings. Nothing demonstrates this better than its newest restaurant, Sophia Abu Dhabi. Vibrant blues mirror the ocean’s turquoise waters within its décor; in fact, the entire concept is an ode to the colours, flavours, and sun-kissed lifestyle of the Mediterranean.
Offering delicacies from no fewer than 22 different countries, all freshly prepared with meticulous craftsmanship and seasonal ingredients – including herbs grown on-site in the resort’s hydroponic farm – it’s a warm yet elevated dining experience, best enjoyed family style. Bringing a contemporary touch to classic, much-loved dishes such as Greek salads, spiced Moroccan tagines and homemade Italian pastas, the central showpiece of the space is the Cig Köfte Bar.
An interactive station brings an element of culinary theatre to every gathering, inviting guests to bond with their fellow diners as expert chefs prepare mouthwatering traditional Turkish kebabs right before their eyes.
Though it may be tempting to spend every moment lounging in a shaded cabana by the pool, sipping sundowners at The Manhattan Lounge, or sampling Sophia’s scrumptious menu, exploring the nearby Saadiyat Cultural District is an essential part of any stay. But whatever your plans may be, rest assured that here you will experience an upgraded, elevated version of the island life you’ve always dreamed of. Leave your phone in the safe, breathe in the fresh sea air, and take a moment to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. stregissaadiyatisland.com
Photography by Žiga Mihelčič
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