Arrival/Check-In: I traveled with Wayne Tallman of the Global Traveler Advisory Board for a week of meetings in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. We planned two rounds of golf during our free time and were carrying a substantial amount of luggage. Flying first class on Etihad Airways, we took advantage of the airline’s complimentary limousine service to the hotel. We were warmly greeted by Ali, who handled our golf bags and luggage, and escorted us to the 18th floor for check-in.
The hotel is striking, leaning at an 18-degree angle. Office space occupies the lower floors and parts of the lobby, while the signature restaurant, 18 Degrees, sits on the 18th floor and guestrooms occupy the floors above. Ali stayed by my side during check-in to ensure everything was arranged. I was assigned room 2212, touted as having the best view and the largest windows in the property.
Guest Quarters: Room 2212 is an expansive suite with spectacular views. Zebrawood paneling defines the entry and dining area, where four chairs surround a circular glass table. Closer to the windows is a functional desk with convenient electrical outlets and the essentials for working comfortably. To the right is a generous living area with a sofa, coffee table and a large flat-screen TV mounted on the wall. A powder room provides added convenience for visitors. The suite’s design evokes a stylish, mid-century modern feel.
The bedroom section, set to the left, is organized into three connected spaces: an entry area, the sleeping quarters and an impressive bathroom. The bathroom features a glass-enclosed shower and a large soaking tub positioned to allow views over Abu Dhabi while you bathe. The bedroom includes a king-sized bed with wall-mounted side tables and a chest of drawers. The windows follow the building’s semicircular curve, maximizing natural light and city views.
An in-wall cabinet contains everything needed to prepare coffee, including complimentary bottled water, showing that an in-room coffeemaker can be thoughtful and discreetly integrated with the decor.
Services/Amenities: The hotel’s restaurant, 18 Degrees, focuses on eastern Mediterranean cuisine, drawing on flavors from Turkey, Lebanon, Syria and Italy. Guests can select dishes from these regional influences while enjoying panoramic views of Abu Dhabi. Breakfast is served daily with a substantial buffet plus eggs cooked to order.
The Lounge in the lobby is an inviting spot to unwind after a busy day and enjoy a cocktail. Staff at both the Lounge and 18 Degrees were friendly and attentive throughout our stay.
The Rayana Spa on level 19 features four treatment rooms and additional city vistas. The spa menu offers treatments suitable for both men and women.
The Experience: Excellent service in an iconic, architecturally distinctive hotel.
GT CHECKLIST
- Doorman/valet
- Less than 10 minutes for check-in
- Separate tub and shower
- Large vanity
- High-quality towels
- Powerful, unattached hair dryer
- High-quality bed linens
- Large, flat-screen television
- Large desk with convenient outlets
- Large, complimentary laptop safe
- Complimentary in-room WiFi
- Complimentary bottled water
- Stocked minibar
- Ample lighting
- In-room coffeemaker
- Iron and ironing board
- On-site restaurant and bar
- 24-hour room service
- State-of-the-art fitness center
Hyatt Capital Gate, Abu Dhabi
P.O. Box 95165
Abu Dhabi
United Arab Emirates
tel 971 2 596 1234
hyatt.com