Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is a landmark hotel on West Corniche Road in Abu Dhabi, beside the Arabian Gulf. Its domed exterior, marble and gold details, chandeliers and landscaped palm gardens make the public areas worth seeing even if you are not staying overnight. The hotel also has a private beach, several pools and dining venues, including Vendôme. Stop for coffee or afternoon tea, or book a restaurant meal to experience the interiors at a more relaxed pace. Families can find activities and facilities on the expansive grounds.
A hotel built on a grand scale
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental stands on West Corniche Road in Al Ras Al Akhdar, facing the Arabian Gulf. Its domed buildings and broad grounds give it a palace-like profile, but it is a hotel rather than a royal residence. The property includes landscaped gardens, fountains, a private beach and a marina. Its size is part of the experience: allow time to walk between areas if you are exploring on foot.
Inside, look for marble, mosaics, chandeliers and gold details. The main building’s domes and archways continue the grand exterior style, while guest rooms are described with softer colours and mother-of-pearl details. Views from rooms include the sea, pools or gardens, depending on the room.
Dining, coffee and afternoon tea
The hotel has several restaurants, cafés and lounges, with options spanning Arabic and international food. Vendôme is a choice for a buffet meal; its Ramadan Iftar spread has included Arabic and international dishes, live cooking stations, salads, soups, mezze, cheeses and desserts. Ramadan dining arrangements are seasonal, so check what is available for your dates.
Afternoon tea pairs tea, coffee and herbal infusions with sandwiches and French pastries. For a shorter stop, the hotel’s café is known for coffee with gold flakes and gold-leaf ice cream. These are distinctive presentations, but the gold is a flourish, not a measure of flavour. Reserve ahead for Vendôme, especially if you have a particular meal in mind.
The grounds, spa and family facilities
The hotel’s scale leaves room for more than dining and interiors. Amenities listed include a spa, outdoor pools, a fitness centre, a golf course and parking. The spa has Moroccan hammam treatments and mosaics; treatments have also been arranged around the five elements of traditional Chinese medicine. Check directly with the hotel for treatment details and availability.
Families can look into the children’s facilities and activities, which have included camel rides, water slides, kayaking and a children’s club. The hotel also has a private beach. These facilities are part of a large resort, so check which activities are operating and whether they need advance booking before planning your day.
FAQ
Can you visit Emirates Palace without staying there?
Yes. The hotel can be explored as a visitor, and stopping for coffee is one option. Check with the hotel for current access arrangements.
Where is Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental?
It is on West Corniche Road in Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi, beside the Arabian Gulf.
What can you eat at Emirates Palace?
Dining options include Arabic and international dishes at Vendôme, afternoon tea, coffee and gold-leaf ice cream. The hotel has several restaurants, cafés and lounges.
Is Emirates Palace suitable for families?
The hotel has family facilities and activities, including a children’s club, pools and options such as camel rides and kayaking. Check availability and booking requirements with the hotel.
