Arrival/Check-In: After several days combining business and leisure in Dubai, we drove to Abu Dhabi and arrived at the elegant Rosewood Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island. The hotel sits opposite the Cleveland Clinic and is part of the Abu Dhabi Global Market Square, directly connected to The Galleria shopping center.
Check-in was prompt and efficient. We were escorted to suite 905, which offers sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf. That panorama was welcome, especially since we had booked a Seawings Abu Dhabi Snapshot seaplane tour from Yas Marina to get an aerial overview before exploring the city.
Guest Quarters: The suite is spacious and tastefully appointed. A hallway from the front door leads to a powder room on the right and the bedroom on the left. At the end of the corridor a generous living area opens up, featuring curved windows that frame the sea view. On the right side of the living space a well-equipped desk provided a comfortable work area with multiple outlets for charging devices.
Opposite the desk, a small dining table with several chairs makes an intimate spot for breakfast or a private meal. The remainder of the room is arranged around a large circular sofa and a stylish coffee table that subtly divides the space. A large flat-screen television is mounted on the far wall, and dark zebrawood panels and shelving provide a rich contrast to the lighter fabrics of the upholstery, carpet and drapery.
The bedroom includes a king-sized bed and another large flat-screen television. The bathroom is finished in light-colored marble with dark wood accents and features double sinks and a roomy soaking tub.
Services/Amenities: Dining options at the hotel are outstanding. Sambusek, the Lebanese restaurant, stands out for its grilled meats and seafood, and its outdoor terrace offers pleasant waterside views. Dai Pai Dong, a Cantonese restaurant adjacent to The Galleria, serves authentic Cantonese dishes and dim sum. One evening after touring, we relaxed at the bar and enjoyed both fried and steamed dim sum alongside a Japanese scotch.
Near the lobby a tucked-away bar provides a cozy spot to enjoy a drink indoors or on the terrace while taking in the Abu Dhabi skyline. La Cava is notable for its spiral wooden staircase leading down to a deep wine cellar and bar that houses more than 1,000 labels. Behind La Cava is a cigar humidor and lounge with an extensive selection of single-malt scotches and whiskeys.
TOP TAKEAWAYS
◆ Sambusek ranks among the best Lebanese restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
◆ The suite was exceptionally comfortable and delivered magnificent views of the Arabian Gulf.
◆ Hotel staff and management were friendly and accommodating throughout our stay.
◆ The property features nine restaurants, on-site shopping and numerous dining venues with water views.
Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Al Maryah Island
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
tel 971 2 813 5550
rosewoodhotels.com