A beach holiday in Abu Dhabi can mean anything from a lively, splash-filled break with kids to a sophisticated, barefoot luxury stay in an elegant coastal resort, making it a great place for a getaway by the sea.
Saadiyat Island has most of Abu Dhabi’s newer seaside resorts, with glamorous beach clubs and a getting-away-from-it-all feel. Meanwhile, the beach hotels along the Corniche are often livelier, cheaper, more family-friendly, and offer easy access to the rest of the city’s cultural experiences. Swimwear is absolutely acceptable on the beach and by the pool in all resorts, but it’s generally expected to wear cover-ups when away from the water. Start planning your sun-soaked getaway now – these are our favourite beach resorts in Abu Dhabi.
1. The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
One of the capital’s most glamorous addresses, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi somehow pulls off old-world elegance and laid-back beach vibes at the same time. Expect regal Arabian decor, impeccable butler service and spectacular views of the Corniche skyline, plus several high-end restaurants. Despite the resort’s grandeur, the atmosphere is very relaxed when you get down to the beachfront.
Guests have access to the Nation Riviera Beach Club, where there’s a glorious 200-metre stretch of sand, an infinity pool, and a Treasure Island Children’s Club (complete with pirate ship). The beach club also includes Cabana Bar & Grill which is based right by the water and serves salads, burgers and sandwiches in a chic seaside setting.
2. Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas
On the pristine shores of Saadiyat Island, the Park Hyatt really makes the most of its beautiful surroundings. Its wide beachfront is one of the region’s most pristine and calm, and is also a nesting ground for endangered hawksbill turtles, which can sometimes be seen on the sands. It’s a peaceful place for a coastal stroll or a paddle, and there’s a refined, grown-up atmosphere.
This luxury resort also includes a serene spa offering massages and beauty treatments, and no less than five swimming pools, one of which is adults-only.Can’t tear yourself away from the dreamy beach views? Head to Shala Beach Lounge in the evening, a laid-back, boho bar and restaurant overlooking the sea, where you can order al fresco Mediterranean-style food and drinks as the sun sets.
3. Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana
For alcohol-free luxury, Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana is a standout. This family-friendly beach hotel has enormous, lagoon-shaped swimming pools, shady garden areas and a lively, 200m beachfront with enough watersports and games to keep everyone busy. As a dry hotel, it’s particularly popular with those travelling with young kids, and the facilities reflect that. Flipper’s Kids Club has a packed schedule of activities, including scavenger hunts and facepainting.
4. Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort
If you’re looking for the last word in barefoot luxury, try the Jumeirah Saadiyat Island resort. This breezy, polished beach resort is a great pick for nature lovers, as it’s set close to protected sand dunes and a mangrove park, while the hotel regularly supports marine conservation efforts, including rehabilitated turtle releases.
This is also one of the most family-friendly beach resorts on Saadiyat Island, with a very active Kids and Teens Club that hosts everything from kite-flying and seed-planting to farm visits and movie nights, plus there are additional babysitting services available. With the kids well taken care of, adults can make the most of the scenic infinity pool, serene spa or swim-up pool bar.
The UAE hasn’t always been the first place you’d think of for all-inclusive beach breaks, but the trend is growing fast here. Rixos Premium on Saadiyat Island is one of the resorts leading the charge. Packages include access to all seven restaurants across the resort, which encompass everything from teppanyaki stations to beachside Greek cuisine. Rooms, suites and villas are all available at this luxury resort, many of which come with direct pool access.
The large private beach is one of the resort’s highlights, and there are opportunities to relax on one of the many sun loungers overlooking the Gulf, work up a sweat on the sandy volleyball courts, or take a breezy stroll along the clean white sands.
6. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
For a very cinematic taste of Abu Dhabi, the Emirates Palace is still one of the capital’s most iconic hotels. A destination in itself, it’s known for its magnificent domes, heavily gilded interiors, and well-manicured grounds. The private beach is a vision, stretching over 1km and with one-of-a-kind views that take in the Abu Dhabi skyline as well as the Arabian Gulf waters.
Take a camel ride, go kayaking and paddleboarding, or just lounge on the sand to make the most of this scenic stretch. The resort is a top pick for foodie travellers, as some of the capital’s best restaurants can be found here. Seasonal restaurant Sand & Koal is outstanding, serving freshly barbecued dishes in small cabanas right on the water’s edge. There are also two Michelin-starred restaurants here: Hakkasan, serving contemporary Cantonese food and Talea by Antonio Guida, for Italian fine dining.
7. InterContinental Abu Dhabi
One of Abu Dhabi’s hotel stalwarts, the InterContinental may not be the flashiest of local beach resorts, but it consistently offers great service, reasonable prices and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Set slightly away from the Corniche’s hustle and bustle, it has a secluded resort feel, and comes with its own private marina and beach area with plenty of loungers and watersports. There are also several swimming pools, tennis courts, and a large gym to keep active guests happy. Modern, relaxed restaurants offer seafood in a casual setting, international buffets and generous portions of Italian cuisine.
