In the glittering Middle East, a region known for its extravagant wealth, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands out as a symbol of luxury. The capital city, Abu Dhabi, has long embraced its opulence, from sponsoring the world’s tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, to hosting the only “8-star” hotel in the world.
The Luxury of Emirates Palace Hotel
If you’re a Fast & Furious fan, you may remember the iconic scene in Fast & Furious 7. The cast walks down the stairs, surrounded by luxury. Behind them is the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi, exuding unmatched opulence.
In February 2023, the hotel officially rebranded as the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, marking a new chapter for this iconic building. Known as the jewel of the Persian Gulf, this magnificent palace is more than just a hotel—it’s a dream destination. 
The First “5-Star Plus” Hotel in Abu Dhabi
In 2023, Abu Dhabi introduced its own luxury hotel grading system: 5-star Plus. The Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental became the first hotel in the region to meet these elevated standards. What makes this new rating special?
At least two presidential suites
Higher staff-to-guest ratio
Luxury chauffeur services
A helipad within 5 kilometers of the hotel
A Hotel Like No Other
Nestled on a private beach with views of the sea to the north and west, the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is located just a street away from the UAE Presidential Palace. The building’s design resembles a grand fortress, with its sandy-colored exterior radiating Arabic charm.
The hotel offers more than 1300 meters of pristine golden coastline and soft sandy beaches—ideal for family vacations, where fun and relaxation go hand in hand.
The hotel’s signature fan, designed by Abu Dhabi-born artist Ahmad Saeed Al Areef Al Dhaheri, is inspired by the UAE’s pearl diving tradition. Each pearl on the fan represents a beautiful island in the Persian Gulf.
The Height of Luxury
Every detail of the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is built to palace standards. The dome, a signature of Arabic architecture, is a stunning feature, with a massive 72.6-meter-tall dome decorated in gold, mother-of-pearl, and crystal geometric patterns.
The hotel is adorned with overtones of gold, oil paintings, and priceless art pieces, making it a true treasure trove of opulence. Even the hotel staff uniforms reflect the elegance of royal butlers.
The recently renovated rooms combine modern luxury with strong Middle Eastern influences. The sea-view rooms come with private balconies that offer sweeping views of the Gulf, making them ideal for a tranquil retreat.
For the ultimate indulgence, the full-sea view suites offer 180-degree views of the ocean, complete with a hot tub and world-class entertainment options.
Michelin-Star Dining & More
The hotel’s culinary offerings are a treat for the senses. The Talea by Antonio Guida, a Michelin-starred restaurant, brings the true essence of Italian Cucina di Famiglia to Abu Dhabi. The atmosphere is vibrant, both indoors and outdoors.
Here, you’ll find coffee, ice cream, and desserts decorated with edible gold, a perfect representation of the Arab world’s love for gold.
A Pampering Experience Awaits
The hotel’s spa is set to offer a range of self-care treatments created by world-renowned spa therapists. It also features skincare products from top-tier brands like Tata Harper and Oto.
In addition to lush gardens, two temperature-controlled swimming pools, and a kids’ club, the hotel also boasts a private marina. It’s an ideal haven for water sports lovers, with activities like jet skiing, kayaking, flyboarding, and windsurfing on offer.
A Cultural Journey
Guests can visit traditional Bedouin tents to converse with locals. Explore the rich culture of the Arab world from a unique perspective. The Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental offers a true cultural experience, taking you through Abu Dhabi’s heritage.
