Abu Dhabi is often overlooked in favour of its flashier cousin, Dubai. However, as the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is undoubtedly a location that must be added to every traveller’s agenda – and with glorious winter sun, Formula 1 racing and construction underway on its own Guggenheim museum (designed by internationally renowned architect Frank Gehry), there has never been a better time to visit this stunning and dynamic part of the world.
Easily accessible from dozens of cities around the world, Abu Dhabi is an ideal location for those travelling on business or for leisure. From October until March, the temperature in the emirate cools to a relatively low 30 degrees, making it the ideal time to escape from the wintry chill that has begun to spread across Europe and see some of the city’s spectacular sights.
Easily accessible from dozens of cities around the world, Abu Dhabi is an ideal location for those travelling on business or for leisure
First of its kind
November 2015 saw the global stars of the racing world descend on Abu Dhabi for the F1 Grand Prix. The circuit was designed to be an Arabian version of the world-class Monaco track, with 21 corners twisting throughout Yas Island. The Yas Island development, which is situated about half an hour outside of the city centre, also comprises theme parks, golf courses and a wide array of shops. And, for those with a true need for speed, Abu Dhabi’s exclusive racing-themed park, Ferrari World, boasts the fastest rollercoaster in the world: Formula Rossa goes from 0-60 in four seconds, guaranteeing to impress even the most seasoned theme park goers.
With such an action-packed itinerary guaranteed, Rosewood Abu Dhabi is the hotel of choice for countless travellers. The hotel became the first Rosewood property in the UAE when it opened in 2013: located on Al Maryah Island, Rosewood Abu Dhabi has an impressive lobby that was designed by global design firm HOK and has been filled with stunning artwork from local and international artists. The hotel’s true defining feature, however, is its personalised butler service: each and every guest, regardless of room category or purpose of stay, is assigned a butler who acts as their personal assistant and concierge, 24 hours a day. Each room is also equipped with an iPad that can be used to request any hotel service, from dry cleaning and valet parking to simply sending a postcard home.
Authentic taste
Food lovers in particular can expect to be delighted by their stay at Rosewood Abu Dhabi: Aqua is an all-day dining destination that serves spectacular Mediterranean cuisine and is home to the newest Friday brunch in Abu Dhabi’s calendar. Guests can also sample delectable Lebanese specialties at Sambusek, which offers fresh seafood from the local market and outstanding views of the waterfront from the outdoor terrace. For after dinner, Smoke is the hotel’s exclusive shisha lounge, offering snacks, cocktails and aromatic Arabic coffee.
Rosewood Abu Dhabi boasts 154 spacious guestrooms, along with 35 suites that each include a private office, making them the perfect choice for business travellers looking to get some extra work done in the evenings. The Royal Suite in particular offers the ultimate in luxurious living, with a private gym that overlooks the spectacular skyline of Al Maryah Island. Warmth and sophistication resonate throughout the hotel’s 34 floors, guaranteeing guests an authentic experience of the Middle East with all the stylish décor and luxurious amenities that they have come to expect.
