Combining authentic Arabian décor with sophisticated regal touches, the St. Regis Abu Dhabi represents a landmark address on the Corniche. FACT went to find out precisely what this luxurious hotel has in store for visitors… 

With a vibrant location in the heart of Abu Dhabi, on the picturesque Corniche, St. Regis Abu Dhabi is a luxurious hotel for which we had high expectations. The 228-room, 55-grand suite hotel boasts a mix of sophisticated and stylish dining venues and bars, as well as a wide range of room types, giving guests plenty of choices when it comes to comfort.

You wouldn’t be mistaken for thinking that you’ve walked into a palace when you step into the grand lobby of the St. Regis Abu Dhabi. Its regal interiors are a wonderful surprise, given the modern exterior of the building. Walking into the foyer, we’re greeted with large Arabian lantern-inspired chandeliers and two ornate bronze staircases, sweeping away from one another as they round the majestic twin pillars that frame the lobby lounge. It certainly makes for a memorable first impression, while providing the comforting feeling of a lavish home away from home. 

Room With A View:

If spectacular views are a must on your list, then you’ll be more than happy with a stay in the one-bedroom, lavishly appointed, The St Regis Suite. The décor and amenities capture the bedrock of St. Regis’ promise of uncompromised living, with floor to ceiling windows displaying iconic sea views of the Corniche, and beyond, while contemporary Arabic décor and plush furnishings, such as the use of Statuario Royal marble, hand-tufted wool carpeting, state-of-the-art technology and huge lavish beds, add an elegant ambience to the room. 

The suit also boasts all of the expected amenities such as complimentary tea and coffee, bottled water, a minibar with snacks, an iron, hairdryer and Remède toiletries in the bathroom, along with super-fast internet access. Trust us when we say that you’ll want to share this lavish suite on Instagram! We appreciated the added benefit of the signature Butler Service, on-call 24/7, for coffee and clothes’ pressing. The bespoke service is the perfect touch for guests who want that extra exclusive feel!

Our favourite part of the 1,000 square foot suite, transpired to be the opulent inlaid bathtub which boasts such depth that we spent more time soaking than we’d care to admit! There’s also plenty of space to lounge around, as a separate living area with dining table and writing desk is nicely partitioned from the bedroom using a beautifully placed wall. In other words, you’ve got a fair amount of space to play with.

Dine In Style:

Breakfast was served al fresco at the beautiful Terrace on the Corniche amongst clear blue skies and faint bird song. The a la carte menu accessed via QR code offers a wealth of options from pancakes, omelettes and granola to the classic English breakfast.

In the evening you have the option of dining at the charming Italian restaurant and recent Fact Award winner for ‘favourite Italian fine dining restaurant in Abu Dhabi‘, Villa Toscana. The restaurant presents an old Italian villa feel, with an open kitchen letting you watch the chefs work their magic upon classic rustic Italian dishes.

Other notable options include Azura Panoramic Lounge, which wraps around the pool terrace with captivating views of the Corniche and an epicurean menu of shisha and Arabic mezze.

Catch at St. Regis is a seafood speciality restaurant and the epitome of destination dining promises strong service standards and consistently excellent food. Whether you’re after French Coastal Oysters, Caviar, lobster sliders of a boujee Crab Trofie Mac’ N’ Cheese, Catch at St. Regis has you covered.

Relax:

Let’s start by saying that we were rather impressed with the air-conditioned private tunnel leading from the main hotel building, underneath the Corniche, and out to the stunning Nation Riviera Beach Club. The beach club offers hotel guests a 200-metre stretch of pristine sand, overlooking the Arabian Gulf’s turquoise waters. You can easily while away the hours laying on one of the comfortable sunbeds or you can take part in the many water activities or health and recreational services that the beach club offers. Of course, we would recommend lounging on a cabana by the beautiful pool and making the most of the swim-up bar. Take strolls on the beach or a dip in the Jacuzzi for a welcomed respite from the heat, and if you get hungry, order food and drink from Cabana Bar & Grill to add to your optimum relaxation fix.

We truly appreciated how The St. Regis Abu Dhabi felt so exclusive and how the entire property was so inviting from the moment we walked in. After one luxurious night, we didn’t want to leave, especially given that the staff made us feel at home during every minute of the stay. If you’re planning a trip to Abu Dhabi, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi offers pure luxury with excellent facilities, impeccable restaurants and a fantastic beach. 

It’s not only one of the best addresses in the UAE capital, but it’s also the epitome of what you’d expect from the St. Regis brand, and then some. If your visit coincides with the bi-monthly brunch in the clouds or the premier sunset supper on the helipad, then we suggest you secure those reservations as soon as possible!

The suite life got us good – now it’s your turn to become enamoured by this five-star hospitality heaven. 

GO: Call (0)2 694 4444 for reservations and more information.