Five Reasons to Visit Shangri-La Hotel Abu Dhabi: A Shimmering Jewel in the Arabian Dessert

If you’ve not already realised, I’m rather in love with Abu Dhabi. Having visited this beautiful part of the world twice this year already, it’s looking like a third visit is on its way for Christmas 2017 – hopefully. With that in mind I wanted to share a little more of my stay at the unforgettable Shangri-La Hotel Abu Dhabi. A luxurious five-star palatial hotel which offers so much excitement, but five things specifically really captured the essence of this hotel and also that of the Shangri-La brand. Without further ado I give you – Five Reasons to Visit Shangri-La Hotel Abu Dhabi!

1. A Winding Waterway

One of the things that really enticed me to stay at Shangri-La Hotel Abu Dhabi was the winding waterways featuring Arabic traditional boats, known as abras. Head downstairs to the back of the hotel and you’ll discover these tiny boats lined up and waiting to whisk you off. They don’t exactly travel very far, but run the length of the promenade and to the local traditional Arabian souk. It’s very relaxing and the lush greenery on both sides means it’s also very pretty. If you’re planning to stay at this hotel make sure it’s top of your list!

2. Views from the Infinity Pool

If enjoying a relaxing boat ride to the local souk and back wasn’t enough, head to the hotels infinity pool and enjoy magnificent views out across the canal to the Grand Mosque. During the day the sun bounces off the pristine white exterior of the mosque and is illuminated at night with an almost golden shimmer to it. Around the pool there’s a fabulous bar with its very own mojito station and Arabic styled gazebos for wasting away an afternoon while enjoy those views.

3. The Huge Suites

For sheer indulgence book one of the hotels plush executive suites. Surprisingly they’re more affordable than you may expect and offer so much space. Over 1000 sqf to be precise. Two private balconies with a stunning canal view, private dining area and lounge, complimentary WiFi and large bathroom with walk-in rain shower, double wash basin and bath tub. I loved the little touches too such as hot tea brought to your room, fruit basket and chocolates dotted around the room.

4. Luxurious Restaurants and Brunch Heaven

Perhaps this hotels biggest selling point is it’s food. My favourite restaurant in the hotel was the signature Shang Palace and their unlimited dim sum feast during the evenings is a real treat. A buffet in the Middle East isn’t your usual all-inclusive affair too, instead they’re of the highest quality and brunch is an absolute must. Sushi, seafood, meze, fruits, cheese and everything else you could imagine. All mostly cooked to order and to your liking. As well as the Chinese restaurant Shang Palace, there’s also a fine dining French restaurant Bord Eau, Vietnamese restaurant Hoi An and a multitude of bars and pool side cocktail hangouts.

5. Evening Hotel Illuminations

I was thinking long and hard about what to include as my fifth reason which makes this hotel so special and in the end I went with something slightly unexpected, but which left a lasting impression during my stay here – the evening illuminations! Once the sun sets, the hotel slowly begins to light up and become a magnificent place. The pool turns bright turquoise blue, the bars all light up with hues of purples and outdoor gazebos become shisha bars and change to bright pink. It’s truly wonderful.

NB: This post was sponsored by Expedia