Among the many of the marvels of Abu Dhabi is surely the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Completed in 2007, the mammoth structure is the largest mosque in the UAE with a capacity of an astounding 41,000.
The optimum place to absorb the majesty of the mosque is from the lobby of the Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, which is directly opposite.
The five-star Venetian-inspired hotel sprawls in a crescent shape and boasts 447 luxury suites, 85 private 1 and 2-bed villas, 10 restaurants, a ballroom and a beach-front spa all set by the canalside. European influences mingle with traditional Middle Eastern design to breathaking effect.
Dining
You could dine at a different restaurant every night of the week at the hotel and still have three left over. There’s ten restaurants to choose from, including three signature venues specialising in Asian and Lebanese food, plus a steak house.
We loved the brunch buffet at Giornotte, which is held on Fridays and includes a separate room for desserts and another for cheeses from around the world - heaven! For those who prefer flame-grilled bites, the Ritz Carlton also holds a barbeque on the outdoor patio. This is in addition to all the usual breakfast fare. Well, they do say it’s the most important meal of the day!
Sleep
Elegant, sophisticated and relaxing, the guestrooms and suites at the Ritz Carlton show off a more contemporary interior style than the public areas of the hotel.
There’s a selection of rooms from Executive to Royal Suite with views over either the garden, pool, canal or Venetian village. All come with the fixtures and fittings common to all luxury hotels, including comfy beds, plush seating and Asprey toiletries.
Add an extra special dimension to your stay by upgrading to Club Level which give you fabulous perks such as a butler service, all-day access to the Club Lounge and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The Grounds
Perfectly manicured lawns, a 2000 square metre ESPA and the biggest swimming pool we’ve ever seen at 1600 square metres are just some of the highlights of the grounds. At night, the pool is lit by underwater lights and its position by the sandy beach means you can dip in and out with ease to sunbathe or swim as you wish.
The Spa
Tucked away from the bustle of the hotel is the ESPA spa, set on a stretch of beach reserved for the exclusive use of spa guests.
This private area allows guests to enjoy a number of therapies, including facials and massages, delivered on the powder-fine sand to the sound of lapping waves.
The 2000 square-metre spa offers a contemporary experience, while still offering age-old treatments with a luxe edge, such as the Hammam (here, right).
THE KHUSH VERDICT
What we thought
The Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal certainly meets the mark for a premium honeymoon experience. Superb service, majestic interiors and sumptuous food makes the hotel our star stay when in the Middle East.
Don’t miss!
If there’s one thing we love, it’s cake! Friday brunch at Giornotte has to be seen to be believed, it’s every dessert-lover’s dream.
www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/uae/abu-dhabi