Don’t Miss These 7 Exclusive Abu Dhabi Experiences

For travelers looking for a luxury getaway, Abu Dhabi could not be more perfect. As the capital city of the UAE, it offers the best shopping, culture, and fine dining, along with an incredible skyline. It’s often called the Manhattan of the East. However, its location (perched on the edge of the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf) and its good weather mean that it’s also the ideal destination for a peaceful, indulgent escape. 

A global destination for luxury lovers

Abu Dhabi is now attracting more and more international luxury travelers from all over the world, most particularly India, China, the USA and Europe. The emirate is an eight-hour flight from Beijing, under four hours from Delhi, and around eight hours from most European cities. This makes it a great prospect for an extended city break or long weekend away for many.

You’ll soon see why those who are looking for exclusive breaks are attracted to the city.  Abu Dhabi offers many exclusive options for entertainment, culture, dining, relaxing and more. Spoil yourself with a selection from this menu of the ultimate luxury experiences in Abu Dhabi.

1. A stay in the Emirates Palace Hotel

The magnificent Emirates Palace Hotel is not the only luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi, but it may well be its most iconic. The hotel sits at the heart of the city, overlooking a kilometer of beach, and is positively palatial with the finest Arabian style architecture. There are two expansive pools with waterfalls, spa treatments, restaurants and a private marina. Make sure you book a Diamond Room to make the most of the spectacular views over the Arabian Gulf. 

2. A private tour from the air…

When you first arrive, get to know Abu Dhabi in the finest style. It’s possible to tour Abu Dhabi by either seaplane, helicopter or balloon. Take to the skies and explore the city from a unique vantage point. A seaplane tour of Abu Dhabi will begin with a breathtaking water take-off and allow you to take in fine city views of the Corniche beachfront, Emirates Palace and the Grand Prix circuit. Further afield on your journey, you’ll also see the lush mangrove forest and beautiful desert-scapes.

3. … or from the water

For the best skyline views and to experience those azure blue waters, take to the ocean. Sailing is a popular pastime here, having been built on a tradition of sailing Dhows for pearl diving and fishing.

It’s possible to charter luxury vessels in Abu Dhabi, including manned or bareboat motor yachts, catamarans, sailboats and dhows. Take your time and enjoy the calm waters and explore the 200 natural islands nearby. 

With many new marinas in Abu Dhabi appearing, the city is fast-becoming a super-yacht paradise. Yas Island is one of the premier marinas in the city. The island is also the home of the Grand Prix circuit, as well as theme parks, concert venues, luxury shopping and hotels, and many more leisure options. It’s a paradise for sailing enthusiasts and their families. 

4. A VIP sporting experience…

Abu Dhabi is home to many incredible annual events. Time your visit right and you could be there for the Formula One Grand Prix, UAE National Day or the Abu Dhabi Festival. The city is home to fixtures on many sporting calendars, having regularly hosted the Mubadala World Tennis Championships, many international soccer and cricket tournaments, and UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship). 

The UAE has a well-deserved reputation for the most incredible hospitality. VIP tickets for a thrilling sporting event in Abu Dhabi will be an incredible opportunity to experience this warmth and generousness. Attending the Grand Prix in a private, air-conditioned hospitality suite is one of the city’s most unforgettable luxury experiences. Soak up the atmosphere with a track-side view, and complimentary champagne and gourmet cuisine. 

5. … or a world-class concert

Abu Dhabi is also a new favourite on the tour schedules of many of the world’s most popular singers and bands. You can enjoy the same luxury hospitality with VIP tickets for one of the event venues in Abu Dhabi

The popular Du Arena is the largest outdoor event venue in the Middle East. The new Etihad Arena is a breathtaking indoor multi-purpose events venue. Both promise to hold an incredible selection of musical (and sporting) events. Keep a close eye on their lineups. Coldplay, Madonna, Guns and Roses, The Killers, and The Rolling Stones are amongst many world-class acts that have played in Abu Dhabi recently. 

6. A thrill-seeking VIP day at a theme park 

No trip to Abu Dhabi would be complete without a trip to at least one of Abu Dhabi’s fantastic selections of theme parks. The city is home to Ferrari World, Warner Bros World, and Waterworld, all situated on Yas Island. 

Ferrari World is amazing fun for luxury car enthusiasts as well as those who aren’t. “Formula Rossa,” the world’s fastest rollercoaster, is found here, plus “Flying Aces” with the world’s highest rollercoaster loop, and more than 30 other exhilarating rides. Make your day really special with a VIP pass. This allows you to skip the lines, and enjoy additional exclusive experiences and complimentary meals. 

7. A luxury beach club 

Nobody should leave Abu Dhabi without enjoying a relaxing day soaking up the sun at the beach. There are many beaches in Abu Dhabi, including the popular Corniche. However, for the most exclusive and peaceful experience, head to a beach club for sophistication and decadence

The Saadiyat Beach Club has an excellent reputation for hospitality. This shore-side hangout boasts a large but tranquil outdoor pool surrounded by private cabanas. The adjacent white sand beach is truly idyllic. And when you are in need of refreshment, the club offers several bars and fine-dining restaurants. There’s also a men’s grooming salon for extra indulgence.

There’s more…

This is not an exhaustive list of luxury experiences in Abu Dhabi. In fact, Abu Dhabi offers a long list of further indulgent and VIP options for hotels, fine dining, spa days and beauty treatments, shopping, and all manners of entertainment. Be sure to consider this luxury lover’s paradise for your next getaway.