In a city where hotels and establishments galore each passing day and often have the life of a shoefly, how does a property continue to shine despite the trying times? Providing a lesson on flourishing despite roadblocks and shining through even the storms is the grand dame of the exclusive Saadiyat Beach enclave, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, one of the oldest St Regis properties and one of the finest ones, indeed.
First impression
As we set foot in the stately beachfront property that sits proudly on the six-mile stretch of natural beach, we were greeted by warm smiles and a swift check-in ensued. Brownie points, the hotel is a 10-minute drive to Louvre Abu Dhabi and the nearby golf club, and 12 miles to the city center, while Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Corniche are 20 to 30 minutes away.
We loved the Mediterranean revival-style architecture through the expansive and elaborate design. Set over eight floors and with plenty of marble throughout, the 376-room resort is bright and breezy, with a touch of class drawn from, leather, rich wooden furnishings, and statement lighting. A luxurious yet comfortable setting.
Our St Regis Seaview Suite was a cocoon of indulgence in itself. It was luxurious and sizable, with a super comfy bed, a large terrace, and a bathroom that spanned the length of the room, had a double shower, dual basins, and a tub with beach views.
However, the marshmallow-soft bed and the balcony that opened to show-stopping views of the beach had to be our favorite.
Foodie indulgences
From the homemade pastries and desserts, we noshed on at The Drawing Room to reveling in sensational Peruvian flavors at Nazka at Buddha-Beach Abu Dhabi, the hotel’s culinary offerings screamed craftsmanship in every bite.
Other popular options are the 55&5th, The Grill, and Sontaya. The vibe at Buddha was as good as the food. If you like a good steak, 55&5th is the place and it’s got an impressive wine cellar too. Long-held as one of the best steakhouses in the city with offerings that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
The breakfast buffet served in Olea has everything from waffles and pancakes to a saj cooking station serving traditional Arabic fare, along with fresh fruits and a good bakery selection. The fare bursted with freshness and soars high on our list of best breakfasts in the region.
Sun, spa and splendour
Those who stay here do so for the beach, which is superb. The spa is worth a visit and has its own entrance and valet parking while The Athletic Club is one of the best in the capital – it has a 25-meter lap pool, squash courts, and dedicated studios for yoga and spinning. We tried a 60-minute massage here where our muscles were kneaded into mush and we drifted off to visions of tropical wellness. Needless to say that with its hands-on techniques, rejuvenating ambiance, and great staff, the spa here is definitely one of the best Iridium spas, world-over.
Verdict
It won’t be far-fetched to define The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort as a vanguard of luxury and serenity. The hotel’s impressive culinary offerings, incredible spa, and superb location are other major points that give it an edge over its bevy of competitors. However, it is the warm, efficient, and amazing army of staff-butlers, wait staff, front desk, and a doorman that will address each guest with their names and put their everything to brighten a guest’s day that makes this property particularly special. The kind of stays that definitely leave an etch on your soul. They don’t do properties like this anymore! The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort is a legend of a property in itself and serves many reasons why it is incomparable!
Where: Al Sa’Diyat – Abu Dhabi
Room rate: From $300/ Dh 1,100 per night
Phone: (02) 498 8888
Website: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/auhxr-the-st-regis-saadiyat-island-resort-abu-dhabi/
Note – The critic was hosted by the resort but all the opinions expressed herewith her very own.
