The drive along the enchanting Corniche is a journey through the history of Abu Dhabi. Beginning at the famed Zayed Port that was present at the city’s birth, I pass the apartment buildings and meticulously manicured parks that sprang to life in the city’s early years until I arrive at a collection of lustrous, curvilinear buildings that garner everyone’s attention. As I draw closer to these sky-scraping megastructures, the mesmerising, spiralled column of the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl appears.
Standing at over 250 metres high, the property’s tower sits on top of a five-storey podium, where one can experience an array of dining and spa experiences. The entrance is dressed in a huge gate, composed of Estremoz Light marble from Portugal and translucent windows that offer a sneak peek of what lies inside. Impressive by day, the property’s exterior is best admired from the 164-foot, palm-tree lined swimming pool or when night falls, at The Founder’s Memorial landmark across the road.
Imagined by UK-based firm, MKV Design, inside is no less ataractic. I step forward into a grand lobby where the interiors take inspiration from the sea, sand and pearl fishing heritage of Abu Dhabi. Three gargantuan, pearl-like chandeliers descend from the ceiling towards alcove-style sofas; perfect for those seeking privacy yet unopposed to a friendly interaction. To the right, the undulating curves of the desert are honoured with a vast sand-coloured design that stretches four floors and sweeps down to a series of trickling water features. To the left, behind gently swaying white drapes, the reception area hides. After a quick check-in, I make my way to my Pearl Suite.
Perched on the 43rd floor, a sea of browns and creams welcome me into my home for the next two evenings. A divider displaying a see-through image of date-farmer scaling a tree to collect the treasured fruit, separates a dining area, replete with a dining table for six people and a large living room, boasting a three-piece suite of furniture which adds a pop of vibrant colour to the room with orange cushions. However, the floor-to-ceiling windows that allow natural light to percolate through the room become too irresistible to ignore and I postpone my tour of the suite’s interior to step out onto the balcony – the decision is certainly worthwhile.
Thanks to my lofty position, I have spectacular vistas before me. The shimmering blue waves of the Arabian Gulf roll towards the coastline, where the mighty pastel-pink façade and lilac dome of Emirates Palace awaits. Further along, the imposing citadel of Qasr Al Watan’s white-washed walls and gold-sprinkled domes loom large in the distance. I reluctantly tear myself away from this stunning scene to explore the bedroom, however, much to my delight, I discover the views are even better.
The bedroom is cosy, with the king-sized bed facing the balcony which enables me to wake up every morning to that incredible view. Control panels on either side of the bed allow me to dictate every function of the room without ever having to leave the all-encompassing comfort of the crisp white linens. The ensuite which sits behind the bedroom, centres around a free-standing bathtub which sits at its heart. There are also double vanity sinks and a rainfall shower whose wall is decorated with a handcrafted glass mosaic and complemented by luxury amenities from Balmain. Interestingly, the wardrobe is also found at the back of the bathroom rather than the bedroom.
A stroll around the hotel reveals its enticing offerings. The Lum’a Spa is my first port of call. Home to 11 treatment rooms, a sublime massage puts me into a soporific state. Next, I forgo the opportunity of a workout in the enormous fitness centre to soak up the sunshine poolside. For dinner, I head to Verso. It’s a pretty Italian trattoria, with bright yellow high stools, tanned dining tables and tiered shelves that showcase a variety of cookbooks, oils and ingredients. I treat myself to the traditional beef ragù – a favourite of the regular gourmands who visit. And then for my nightcap, I drop into Lexx. It’s an establishment that lends itself to every night out, be it a wine and cheese evening with the girls or an afterwork hang with the boys. I place myself at the onyx bar and savour a cold drink while watching the football.
I awake the next morning for breakfast at Sahha. Staying in the suite I am afforded the opportunity to dine throughout the day in the calm surrounds of the Grand Club, however, the colossal spread of cuisine from all over the globe beckons me to the former venue. With the temperature accommodating, I take my seat upon its outdoor terrace and catch a glimpse of jet skiers flying by on the water way below.
I spend my final moments back in my suite, where I enjoy the beauty of Abu Dhabi Corniche’s sublime landmarks from my balcony. I will definitely be back.
