Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi
Emirates Palace is a five-star luxury hotel on a private beach at the western end of the Abu Dhabi Corniche, owned by the Abu Dhabi government and one of the city's best-known landmarks. Launched in December 2001 and opened in 2005 at a cost of around three billion US dollars, it was one of the most expensive hotels ever built. Mandarin Oriental has run it since January 2020, after a two-year renovation. Designed by WATG with elements of Islamic architecture, symmetry, geometric pattern and stepped massing, it has a decorated central dome rising 72.6 metres, 114 smaller domes and an exterior colour inspired by Arabian desert sand. The main building stretches about a kilometre from east to west wing, set in some 100 hectares of gardens with a 1.3 km beach and its own marina. Inside, gold, mother-of-pearl, marble and crystal dominate, with more than a thousand chandeliers, the largest weighing about two and a half tonnes, and a vast atrium beneath the central dome. Visitors come to see the lobby and cafés, and its cappuccino topped with gold flakes is famous.
It is a working hotel, and entry to the lobby may require a booking at one of its restaurants or cafés, so ask ahead. Smart, modest dress is advisable. Late afternoon, when the domes light up, is best, and the western end of the Corniche gives a good view of the whole palace. Qasr Al Watan is next door, so combine the two.
Hours and prices change — check before you go. Source: en.wikipedia.org
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AttractionAbu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
