Background

During a recent trip to the capital of the United Arab Emirates, I chose to spend my 48-hour stay at the glamorous, design-heavy Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Residences Emirates Pearl. This is one of three properties by this international chain, in the city. The group also has a considerable presence in Dubai.

What’s It Like?

If you are a design enthusiast, this hotel will delight you. The space is dotted with exquisite elements of design, modern aesthetic touches and works of art, as well as installations throughout the public areas. This business-meets-leisure hotel boasts a vast inventory of 428 rooms, spread across different categories. It comprises 36 suites, including an opulent presidential suite. For long-stay guests, it might be a better option to stay at the one or two-bedroom residences, which are fully serviced and give the feel of a private apartment.

Where Is It?

The property is extremely well situated, in the West Corniche area. This is a beautiful part of Abu Dhabi with easy access to the main business districts and shopping malls. Evenings at the Corniche are ideal for a leisurely stroll. The hotel is also a 35-minute drive from the airport, while the Marina Mall is a short walk away.

Rooms

I stayed in a Pearl Suite, gorgeously furnished with luxurious materials and plush fabrics. What impressed me first was the sweeping view of the Arabian gulf, which I could enjoy from my floor-to-ceiling windows as well as from my private balcony. The suite is massive, spread across 100 sqm, and features a large living room, an independent area to work and, of course, a bedroom. In case you are thinking of entertaining colleagues or friends, the six-cover dining table in the suite is a very practical option. I enjoyed my downtime with a cup of Nespresso in front of the 65-inch flatscreen TV.

Food And Drink

This property has some impressive food and beverage options. I absolutely loved my gourmet Italian meal at Verso. Sundowners are best enjoyed at the retro-chic Lexx bar, which features a stellar inventory of high-end wines and cigars. Don’t forget to check out the humidors that are packed with cheese and charcuterie options for your gourmet indulgence.

Meetings

Given Abu Dhabi’s positioning as an ideal MICE and wedding destination, this property boasts 4,700 sqm of meeting and events spaces, which can each be customised to your liking, depending on the size and nature of your event. There are also smaller meeting rooms and boardrooms for corporate events. Ideal for weddings, the ballroom comes with a pre-function space, a bridal suite and a VIP lounge.

Leisure

Make a stop at Luma Fitness Centre and Spa for a range of relaxing treatments as well as a dip in the infinity pool.

Verdict

A perfect mix of business and leisure, this property definitely gets our thumbs up on all fronts.

Price: Upwards of Dhs 595 / 11,500

Contact: Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Residences Emirates Pearl, West Corniche,PO Box 7309, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

hyatt.com

Ravi Lalwani