Hotel
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Abu Dhabi's grandest hotel, opened in 2005 and run by Mandarin Oriental since 2020, with 114 domes, a 1.3-kilometre private beach and a dozen restaurants.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
A five-star beach resort on Saadiyat Island with a private Gulf beach, three outdoor pools, a 12-room spa and Buddha-Bar Beach, next to a Gary Player golf course.
At a glance
- Type
- Luxury beach resort
- Area
- Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Price
- $$$$ · Luxury
- Hotel class
- 5-star
- Official site
- marriott.com
Good to know
- Private beach
- Three outdoor pools and indoor lap pool
- St. Regis Spa
- Squash courts
- Next to Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
Why we recommend it
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort is one of the classic luxury beach hotels in Abu Dhabi, set on a private stretch of beach on the Arabian Gulf along Saadiyat Island. It is a five-star Marriott property and received a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award in 2020. Its location combines resort-style relaxation with quick access to the Saadiyat Cultural District, home of the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the island's newer museums.
The resort is built around its beach and pools. There are three outdoor pools and an indoor lap pool, and the private beach gives guests plenty of space. Next door is Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, designed by Gary Player and described as the first beachfront golf course in the Arabian Gulf. The St. Regis Spa has 12 treatment rooms, and the St. Regis Athletic Club includes two indoor squash courts. The rooms and suites are being refreshed in phases through the end of 2027, so ask which rooms have been updated when you book.
Dining is varied. Oléa is the all-day Mediterranean restaurant and serves a daily breakfast buffet, and Sontaya and Café Ginori add further choice. The Manhattan Lounge and the Pool and Beach Bar are relaxed places for a drink, while Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi is the resort's beach venue for the evening. Sophia Abu Dhabi rounds out the line-up.
The resort suits couples, families and golfers. Families should note that the Sandcastle Club for children was being refreshed until 31 October 2026, with a temporary play area in the meantime, so check its status before booking. The property is smoke-free and does not accept pets, and parking is complimentary. Check-in is from 15:00, and check-out is at midday. The Regal Ballroom, at 3,000 square metres, and 13 meeting spaces mean the resort also hosts weddings and conferences.
The hotel is about 30 kilometres from Zayed International Airport and is roughly 150 kilometres from Dubai International Airport. Louvre Abu Dhabi and downtown Abu Dhabi are a short drive away, and taxis are the easiest way to get around. Stay at least three nights to balance beach time with the museums of the Cultural District.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort FAQs
Is the St. Regis Saadiyat Island a five-star hotel?
Yes. It is a five-star resort and received a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award in 2020.
Does it have a private beach?
Yes, on the Arabian Gulf.
How many pools are there?
Three outdoor pools and an indoor lap pool.
Is there golf nearby?
Yes. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, designed by Gary Player, is next to the resort.
Which restaurants and bars are there?
They include Oléa, Sontaya, Café Ginori, The Manhattan Lounge, the Pool and Beach Bar, Sophia and Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi.
How far is the airport?
About 30 kilometres from Zayed International Airport.
Are pets allowed?
No.