In a land of sheikhs, oil, and pearls it’s no surprise that Abu Dhabi has plenty of luxury options to entice the jet setting visitor. Yet, some of the city’s most iconic and truly high-end experiences are surprisingly within reach for most visitors who are willing to splurge just a bit.
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a refined version of Middle Eastern wealth and glamour mixed with a bit of over-the-top bravado. With an international formula-one racing track, a skyline that seems to defy the laws of physics, and yacht-filled marinas that rival the French Riviera, the glitz can be slightly intimidating.
Here are three experiences to break into the Abu Dhabi high-life. While not budget by any means, with a bit of planning, they won’t break the bank.
Golden Cuisine
If you’d like to dine like royalty, there is no better place than the Emirates Palace Hotel. The gold-covered super-lux hotel is iconic UEA. While tourists are usually welcome on the grounds of the front of the hotel, getting deeper inside requires a reason. Dinner reservations are the key if you can’t afford a room. Try Mezlai for traditional Emirati dining, either in the classical dining room reminiscent of tent out of the Arabian Nights or al fresco on the patio with views over the garden (smart casual). Try BBQ al Qasr for enticing steaks and seafood served in romantic gazebo-style dining on the sands of the hotel’s private beachfront. Or if you feel you need some gold in your diet, try Le Café in the hotel lobby for a 24 karat gold-dusted cappuccino (60 AED) or a camel burger. Meals at each of these smart casual options will cost about the same as any high-end restaurant in the city. All options require reservations, which can be made by email at restaurants@emiratespalace.ae.
Sky-High Snacks
To really put the high in High Tea, head to the Observation Deck at 300 in the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers. The ticket to the observation tower 300 meters (984.25 feet) costs 85 AED, but it included a 50 AED coupon for the restaurant, which offers a selection of sandwiches and fruity mocktails. If you’re looking to splurge, make reservation for high tea for 175 AED. Whichever you choose, you will have unrivaled 360-degree views over the entire city.
Beachfront Chic
If a day at the beach in luxury style is more your speed, the Saadiyat Beach Club offers non-member weekday pass for about $60 for one person or about $100 per couple (prices double on weekends and holidays). The day pass gets you access to the pristine white sand beach with cool sea breezes near a protected sea turtle reserve, as well as a chilled 650 sq. meter swimming pool. For your own over-the-pool cabana, it’s an extra $100 more for non-members. The day pass also gets you into the club’s workout room and day spa, but many services include extra charges. There’s a bistro-style restaurant on site for lunch, but sandwiches or burgers will set you back about $25 per person.
Tipping Tips: Throughout Abu Dhabi, while tipping is not necessary, don’t be surprised to find an additional 20% in services charges and taxes to each bill.