Hotel Shangri-La, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi

The staff, from reception through to the valets, were exceptionally polite and helpful, and they made a birthday surprise for my wife with room decorations, cake, and flowers. That thoughtful gesture meant a lot. The rooms were impressive, and breakfast offered a huge selection, including ample choices for vegetarians. My only suggestion is the in-room coffee. For a shagrila property, I expected something better than a Nescafe sachet, though as a coffee snob I may be especially fussy. It wasn’t a deal breaker, just an area that could be improved.

The private beach, pools, gym, and dining choices were all excellent. We chose half board and found it perfect, while the heated baby pool was particularly special for our 18-month-old and isn’t available at many resorts. Shops and coffee shops were also within walking distance. Service was brilliant, with every staff member going above and beyond to make the stay memorable. The resort isn’t in what’s usually considered the central tourist area, but that didn’t trouble us because we were happy walking to nearby marinas. Less mobile guests might find that location less convenient, although taxis are easy to access. A great choice for relaxed, secluded luxury.

The restaurant team made our stay feel effortless. They prepared special dishes for our son, and every meal was fantastic. Each day’s buffet brought a wide range of beautifully prepared specialties, all of them incredibly delicious. More than anything, the staff’s thoughtfulness set the hotel apart. They were friendly, attentive, and often anticipated what we needed before we asked. Sujeet Kumar and his team deserve particular thanks for making every restaurant visit extra special through their warmth and professionalism. Their effort made a tremendous difference to our journey. We wholeheartedly recommend staying here.

The welcome at this hotel immediately felt like something from a fairytale. Smiling, impeccably dressed staff opened my car door, beautiful hostesses greeted me, and before check-in I received traditional Arabic tea and a chilled towel. The lobby was breathtaking, filled with fresh flowers and Arabic design around the reception desks, concierge, and café. Maria handled check-in quickly and patiently answered all my questions. My suite was the real surprise. The large hand-crafted doors opened to a luxurious, timeless interior with a huge living room, plush sofa, decorative cushions, wooden chest of drawers, TV, and minibar. Drawers were carefully arranged with separate spaces for glasses and cups, plus a full tea and coffee service, kettle, ice bucket, and Arabic bowls. A separate console held the Nespresso setup with labelled capsules. The business area had a large desk, comfortable chair, Arabic wall decorations, hand-crafted vases, and lamps. The drawer even contained information, paperclips, scissors, and a leather organizer. In the bedroom, the handmade bed stood beside nightstands with a clock and water, while another chest held a TV and the wooden wardrobe included an iron, ironing board, and safe. The bathroom was spacious, with a bathtub, walk-in shower, and double vanities. It was stocked with organic soaps and toiletries, bath salts, makeup remover pads, toothbrushes, shaving kits, hair ties, and a nail file. During evening turndown, staff prepared the bed and left a hand-crafted bookmark. The bedroom and living room opened directly toward the beach and pool. The landscaped relaxation area had excellent beach service, towels, and a private cooler with bottled water for every guest. Breakfast was just as impressive, especially the Asian soup station, Arabic food station, fresh-pressed juices, chocolate fountains, and huge range of buffet dishes. I didn’t have time to try every restaurant or bar, though I’m saving the Michelin-starred French restaurant for my next visit. Congratulations to the owner, managers, and whole team for creating something so special. Agnieszka Dębińska room 115