Incredibly opulent and managed by Kempinski, this magnificent hotel provides the ultimate in luxury. This grandiose palace evokes a sense of space, style and sophistication throughout. As you make your way along the sweeping driveway, the dancing water fountains in the distance guide you to a marble-domed lobby decorated with palm trees, Rolex clock faces and doors with Swarovski crystal-encrusted handles. There’s waterskiing and stand-up paddleboarding at the watersports centre and a lazy river to keep younger guests entertained, while the expansive grounds create plenty of seclusion and privacy for couples at spots like the award-winning Emirates Palace Spa. There’s a real passion for cuisine, with a choice of 14 restaurants serving everything from al fresco barbecue and contemporary Chinese to Lebanese fare. Dining at Mezlai is highly recommended – it’s the UAE’s first Emirati restaurant. Simple yet elegant, the Coral Rooms have all the superior facilities you would expect from a luxury hotel, with pretty views over the gardens and out across the Abu Dhabi skyline. Pearl Rooms have partial Gulf views while Diamond Rooms provide uninterrupted views over the Arabian Gulf. The Khaleej Suites are truly indulgent with extensive living space.