When you think of Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, no doubt as part of your vision, five striking towers, three more prominent than the rest, come to mind.
Rising majestically out of the sandscape is Jumeirah at Etihad Towers’ somewhat of an Emirates institution in itself such is its iconic structure. Dramatically sweeping upwards in stark modern contrast to that of ostentatious Emirates Palace sitting royally at its feet, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is a hotel of no compromise. It’s spectacular design has set a new standard for luxury hotels now just in Abu Dhbai but the whole of the Middle East, a symbol of power, of wealth and of luxury hospitality.
The complex itself is made up of five main towers- three residential, one office and the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers hotel. Unfairly immediately put into the business hotel category, this landmark has so much more to offer than just good boardroom facilities as I found out when taking a weekend break here.
Boasting arguably the best views of the Arabian Gulf in the city, whether you want to spend your time relaxing in one of the three swimming pools, indulging in some retail therapy from the world’s most notorious luxury brands or being pampered in the Talise Spa, this hotel really does offer something for everyone.
Pulling up to Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is an event in itself, a spectacle of flash cars and designer-clad guests scurrying into the impeccable lobby. This is a hotel that does not scrimp on service and your every whim is attended to briskly and politely as soon as you set foot through the door, discretion here is paramount such is the nature of its clientele. You can’t help feeling more than a little bit important staying here and isn’t that what luxury hospitality is all about?
This multiple-award winning luxury hotel features some 382 elegant rooms and suites and we recommend one with a fantastic view out across the gulf, however, whichever side your room or suite resides, you’ll be sure to have a spectacular view. Rooms range from a Deluxe Twin to the Royal Etihad Suite and I’m pleased to report that the same level of service, comfort and amenities stays true across all levels. Opting for a Grand Deluxe King room, perfectly compact at 60 square meters and furnished in plush fabrics and clean simplicity, this has been designed to be a home away from home. With a panoramic view of the sea, it’s far too tempting to stay put, order an array of delights from the in-room dining menu, get comfy on the over sized bed and catch up on television time. We loved the fact that the Television can be pulled from the wall and moved around to sit at the end of the bed for ease of viewing, cleverly tucked away during non-TV times.
For families or those looking for that added spot of luxury, the Sky Suite is unrivaled. Taking satisfaction to new heights, beginning with iPad access on your complimentary limousine transfer, this suite can also be connected to the Grand Club room for added privacy and convenience. A separate living and dining area extends out with a butler-serviced kitchen adding to the overall Abu Dhabi experience. You’ll also have access to the Club Executive Lounge, offering additional benefits such as food and beverages throughout the day, late check-out and access to a dedicated meeting room.
The hotel really comes alive through its facilities however, and whether you are working out at the gym or lounging on the private beach, this hotel has an abundance of them. What’s more if you want something that isn’t offered, all you have to do is ask. Within reason of course.
Not all hotels come complete with their very own observation deck or shopping avenue but Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is not your ordinary hotel. Designer boutiques take the hassle out of ‘I-wish-i’d-bought-that-dress’ vacation woes and instead enlist a ‘how-did-i-ever-cope-without’ mentality.
After all that shopping, take in the wonder that is Abu Dhabi from level 74, Observation Deck at 300, where guests have complimentary access. Enjoy afternoon tea with a view as you gaze out across the cityscape.
In fact, dining is something that Jumeirah at Etihad Towers does very well, so well in fact that residents of the capital flock here throughout the week. The newest kid on the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers block is Pearls by Michael Caine, perched where the sand meets the water, this brand new eatery has quite the foodie following. Offering casual dining with European flavours , you can enjoy dishes such as Pan Fried Foie Gras and the delicious Honey Roast Duckling. Other notable eateries include Ray’s Grill for meat lovers and you must pop upstairs to Ray’s Bar for a cocktail (or three) post dinner for some of the best bar views in the entire of the Emirates. Weekends get very busy here so arrive early to ensure you get seated.
I tried Tori No Su, an award-winning Japanese restaurant that serves up contemporary dishes dreamt up by Kaiseki-trained chef Ando. Whether you fancy sushi or fresh fish, Teppanyaki or Robatayaki, each dish is even better than the one before in. Of course, if you’re feeling really adventurous you can even order an ‘omakase’ course, whereby Chef Ando and his team will create a surprising selection dishes on demand for you, I’m told this is the very best way to discover Japanese cuisine.
Such is the variety of gastronomic venues, shops, spa treatments and activities at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, you’ll see this is so much more than just another business hotel. Of course, this hotel not only offers one of the largest event facilities in Abu Dhabi in the Mezzoon Ballroom which hosts up to 1,400 guests but also some of the most technologically advanced making it the ideal choice for executive travellers.
This really is a hotel that goes above and beyond it’s lofty structure, installing visions of levels of luxury that do the Middle East proud, making it an icon of the Emirates.
jumeirah.com/Jumeirah–Etihad–Towers
The Insider UAE 