Emirates Palace: A Glimpse into Luxury and Grandeur

Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi is an iconic landmark, symbolizing luxury and opulence in the heart of the UAE., along the Corniche, offering stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. The hotel is easily accessible and just a short drive from the city center and the airport.

Architecture and Design:

Emirates Palace is often hailed as one of the most impressive architectural feats in the Middle East. Designed by the renowned architectural firm, WATG, the palace incorporates Islamic, Arabian, and modern design elements to create a harmonious and grandiose aesthetic.

The most striking feature of the hotel is its central dome, which stands 72.6 meters tall and spans 42 meters in diameter. The dome, inspired by Islamic architecture, is not just visually stunning but also a technical marvel, featuring a high-tech design that supports the weight of the building's structures.

Inside, the hotel is adorned with 114 stunning domes, intricate Arabic patterns, and a mix of opulent gold leaf, chandeliers, and plush furnishings. The corridors, ballrooms, and lobbies are designed with luxurious marble and gold, accentuating the lavishness of the hotel.

In addition, the hotel’s exterior is a fusion of traditional and contemporary, with elegant arches, columns, and detailed carvings, giving guests the feeling of entering a royal palace.

Key Features and Attractions:

1. Palatial Rooms and Suites

Emirates Palace offers 394 luxurious rooms and suites, each designed to provide comfort and elegance. Many suites feature spectacular views of the Gulf or the hotel's lush gardens. Inside, guests can find lavish furnishings, fine marble floors, and gold accents, along with state-of-the-art technology.

2. Dining Experience

The hotel features 14 world-class restaurants and bars that cater to diverse tastes. Some signature restaurants include Le Vendôme (international buffet), Hakkasan (modern Cantonese cuisine), and Café; by the Palace (for decadent afternoon teas). Whether you're in the mood for international, Asian, or Middle Eastern cuisine, Emirates Palace delivers exquisite dining experiences. For an added touch of indulgence, guests can also savor dishes like gold-flaked ice cream!

3. Palace Gardens and Beaches

The hotel boasts beautifully landscaped gardens with over 1,000 species of plants, fountains, and pathways. Guests can relax on the private, pristine beaches or unwind by one of the seven pools on the property. The private beach provides a tranquil retreat, with views of the Arabian Gulf and an array of water sports to enjoy.

4. Luxury Spa

The Emirates Palace Spa is a haven of relaxation, offering a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Guests can indulge in signature therapies, traditional hammam treatments, or signature massages using organic oils. The spa also features a beautiful indoor pool and private cabanas for a more exclusive experience.

5. Majestic Meeting Spaces

Emirates Palace isn't just a luxury hotel; it also serves as a prestigious venue for events. The palace has over 40 meeting rooms, including a grand ballroom that can accommodate up to 2,000 guests. The hotel regularly hosts high-profile events, from global conferences to lavish weddings and galas.

Unique Experiences at Emirates Palace:

• The Gold Leaf Coffee: Indulge in a cup of coffee served with edible gold at the hotel’s café. This over-the-top beverage adds an extra layer of luxury to the experience.

• Camel Riding & Falconry: Experience authentic Arabian traditions by enjoying camel rides and watching majestic falcons in action. The hotel offers these unique cultural experiences to immerse guests in the UAE's heritage.

• Palace Tour: If you're not staying at the hotel, you can still take a guided tour to explore its grandeur. The tour takes you through the majestic corridors, stunning atriums, and lush gardens, providing insights into the history and architecture of this iconic landmark.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Initiatives

While Emirates Palace is known for its extravagance, it also prioritizes sustainability. The hotel has implemented eco-friendly practices like water conservation, energy-efficient technologies, and waste reduction. It also emphasizes the use of local, sustainable products in its dining and spa offerings.

Rooms & Suites:

The rooms and suites at Emirates Palace offer unrivaled opulence.

• Palace Rooms: The hotel offers a variety of rooms, but all share a common theme of elegance. Each room is decorated with rich tapestries, plush velvet, and intricate Arabian-inspired details. Some rooms come with panoramic views of the beach or the city skyline. The design is traditional yet comfortable, with luxurious touches that evoke a sense of calm and serenity.

  

• Khalifa Suite: The Khalifa Suite is one of the most luxurious rooms available at Emirates Palace, often used by heads of state. The suite has its own private elevator, two spacious bedrooms, a dining room, and an impressive marble bathroom with a Jacuzzi. The suite also boasts panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.

• Royal and Presidential Suites: For those seeking an even more exclusive experience, the Royal and Presidential Suites offer more space, including lavish lounges, multiple bedrooms, private libraries, and even private offices. The attention to detail, like the gold-plated bathroom fixtures and imported Italian furniture, ensures a stay fit for royalty.

Dining Experiences:

Emirates Palace is known for its incredible dining experiences that combine luxury with world-class cuisine.

• Le Vendôme: This all-day dining restaurant is renowned for its international buffet, which is often considered one of the finest in the region. Guests can sample a wide array of cuisines, from Western favorites to Middle Eastern delicacies. The restaurant’s open kitchen design and interactive cooking stations make it an engaging experience.

  

• Hakkasan: One of the world's most famous Cantonese restaurants, Hakkasan combines traditional Chinese flavors with modern techniques. Expect dishes like dim sum, Peking duck, and stir-fries served in an upscale setting. The ambiance is sleek and sophisticated, with a hint of glamour.

• Mezlai: For a truly local experience, Mezlai offers traditional Emirati dishes like grilled meats, fresh seafood, and regional specialties, all made with the finest ingredients. The restaurant captures the essence of the UAE’s rich culinary heritage, served in a luxurious, traditional setting.

• Café; by the Palace: For those with a sweet tooth, the café is the perfect place to indulge in decadent pastries, ice creams (including the famous gold-flaked version), and traditional Arabic sweets like baklava. You can also enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea in the palace's opulent surroundings.

The Luxury Spa:

The Emirates Palace Spa offers a luxurious sanctuary to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Inspired by traditional Arabian wellness rituals, the spa combines ancient healing practices with modern techniques to provide a full range of treatments.

• Signature Treatments: The spa offers a number of signature treatments, such as the Arabian Hammam Ritual, where guests are pampered with soothing scrubs, massages, and aromatic oils. The Royal Body Wrap is another popular option, utilizing locally sourced ingredients like honey and rosewater.

  
  

• Private Cabana Experience: For the ultimate luxury experience, guests can reserve one of the private spa cabanas. These spaces are perfect for those who want a more intimate and exclusive spa experience, complete with private plunge pools and personalized treatments.

The Palace Gardens and Outdoor Areas:

One of the hotel’s most impressive features is its lush, sprawling gardens that span 85 hectares of pristine landscape.

• The Gardens: The extensive gardens are home to over 1,000 species of plants, including palm trees, bougainvillea, and fragrant jasmine flowers. The meticulously landscaped gardens make for a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection.

• The Beach: Emirates Palace is one of the few hotels in Abu Dhabi with direct access to a private beach. The hotel’s beach is pristine and offers turquoise waters with a view of the Arabian Gulf, making it a perfect spot for relaxation or water sports.

• Pools and Outdoor Activities: The hotel boasts seven pools in total, including a large outdoor pool and multiple plunge pools. Guests can take part in water activities like kayaking, windsurfing, or simply lounge by the pool with the luxury of poolside service.

Cultural Experiences:

Emirates Palace offers a range of cultural experiences that let guests immerse themselves in traditional Emirati customs and heritage:

• Camel Rides: Experience a piece of UAE’s heritage by taking a camel ride through the sand dunes or the hotel’s gardens. Camel rides are offered regularly, giving guests a taste of the region’s ancient modes of transportation.

  

• Falconry: Falconry is a revered tradition in the UAE, and at Emirates Palace, guests can witness this ancient sport up close. The hotel regularly hosts falconry displays, where guests can observe majestic falcons soar through the sky, trained to hunt.

• Arabian Art & Architecture: Guests can also explore the palace's collection of Arabian art and photography, which tells the story of the UAE’s culture and history. The hotel itself is an example of classic Arabic architectural style, and its interior design features authentic Arabic artwork and craftsmanship.

Exclusive Events and Venues:

Emirates Palace is an ideal venue for exclusive events, ranging from business conferences to glamorous weddings.

• The Ballroom: The Emirates Palace Ballroom is a stunning, grand space capable of hosting large-scale events, including international conferences and weddings. It is one of the largest hotel ballrooms in the Middle East, accommodating up to 2,000 guests.

• Private Events: The hotel also offers a range of smaller, intimate venues for private dinners, corporate events, or special celebrations. The staff is known for tailoring events to guests’ exact preferences, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Sustainability at Emirates Palace:

While the hotel is undeniably luxurious, Emirates Palace has also made significant strides in sustainability. The hotel’s eco-friendly initiatives include:

• Energy Efficiency: The hotel has adopted advanced energy-efficient technologies, such as solar panels and energy-saving lighting systems, to reduce its carbon footprint.

• Water Conservation: Given the desert climate, the hotel uses state-of-the-art water-saving technologies to reduce consumption and ensure sustainability.

  

• Sourcing Local Produce: The hotel prioritizes local, organic produce in its kitchens, promoting sustainability in its food offerings.

Room Rates And Other Fares:

When it comes to the cost or fare associated with staying at Emirates Palace, the price can vary widely depending on the type of room, suite, and time of year. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

1. Palace Rooms
   These are the most standard rooms in the hotel, but they still offer the signature luxury and comfort of Emirates Palace.

   • Average Rate: Around AED 1,500 to AED 2,500 per night (approximately $400 to $680 USD).

2. Khalifa Suite
   This ultra-luxurious suite offers incredible views of the Gulf and comes with several premium amenities.

   • Average Rate: Around AED 25,000 to AED 30,000 per night (approximately $6,800 to $8,200 USD).

3. Royal & Presidential Suites
   These are the most luxurious and exclusive suites in the hotel, designed for dignitaries and high-profile guests.

   • Average Rate: Prices can range from AED 40,000 to AED 100,000+ per night (approximately $10,900 to $27,200 USD).

Dining Costs:

• Le Vendôme (Buffet)

  • Price Range: AED 350 to AED 550 per person for the buffet (approx. $95 to $150 USD). The price varies based on the day and whether it’s a special themed buffet.

• Signature Restaurants (e.g., Hakkasan)

  • Price Range: A typical meal for two can range from AED 500 to AED 1,200 ($135 to $325 USD), depending on the selection of dishes and drinks.
   
  
  
  

• Afternoon Tea at Café; by the Palace

  • Price: Approximately AED 200 to AED 500 per person (approx. $55 to $135 USD), with a luxurious selection of teas and pastries, including gold-flaked options.

Spa and Wellness Services:

• Spa Treatments:
  A typical signature treatment (like a body scrub, massage, or facial) at the Emirates Palace Spa can cost between AED 500 and AED 1,500 ($135 to $410 USD), depending on the treatment chosen. Exclusive experiences in private cabanas can cost even more.

Events and Special Experiences:

• Private Events (Weddings, Gala Dinners, Conferences):
  Emirates Palace is one of the most sought-after venues for large, prestigious events. For a lavish wedding or gala, prices can vary greatly based on the number of guests and services required, but expect to pay anywhere from AED 100,000 to AED 500,000+ for a full-scale event.

• Camel Rides & Falconry:
  These unique cultural experiences typically start at around AED 500 to AED 1,000 ($135 to $270 USD) for a basic session, though more exclusive options can cost more.

Additional Costs:

• Airport Transfer:
  Emirates Palace offers luxury limousine transfers to and from the airport, which can range from AED 250 to AED 1,000 ($68 to $270 USD) depending on the vehicle type (e.g., luxury sedan or SUV).

• Parking:
  Complimentary valet parking is available for hotel guests, though parking fees for special events may vary.

  
  

Booking a stay at Emirates Palace:

can be done through a few different methods, depending on your preferences and the level of service you'd like. Here’s a guide to help you book your stay:

1. Booking Directly Through Emirates Palace Website

• Website: Visit the official Emirates Palace website Emirates Palace to make direct reservations.
• Advantages:
  • Best available rates (sometimes with exclusive offers for direct bookings).
  • You can choose from all available room types and suites, including any seasonal promotions or special packages (e.g., spa offers, dining credits).
  • Access to exclusive booking benefits like early check-in or late check-out, subject to availability.
• Steps:
  1. Go to the website.
  2. Select the "Book Now" button.
  3. Choose your desired dates, room type, and additional services.
  4. Complete the booking process by entering your payment details.

2. Booking via Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)

You can also use popular OTAs to make your reservation, such as:

• Booking.com

• Expedia

• Agoda

• Hotels.com

• Advantages:

  • Sometimes these platforms offer additional deals, discounted prices, or bundled packages.
  • Access to customer reviews and more flexible booking policies (like cancellations).
  • Loyalty points if you’re a member of a particular platform.

• Steps:

  1. Visit the platform of your choice.
  2. Enter "Emirates Palace" or "Kempinski Emirates Palace" in the search bar.
  3. Select your desired dates and room type.
  4. Proceed to check out, using your payment details to confirm the booking.

3. Contacting the Hotel Directly

For a more personalized touch or to inquire about special requests (e.g., celebrating an occasion, booking a specific suite), you can call the hotel directly or email them for reservations.

• Phone: +971 2 690 9000 (you may need to call during business hours in the UAE).
• Email: You can send inquiries about booking, special arrangements, or group bookings to the hotel's reservations department at reservation@emiratespalace.ae.

This method is especially useful if you have specific requests (e.g., suites for VIP guests, special occasion arrangements) or if you're looking for tailor-made packages.

4. Luxury Travel Agents

If you're looking for a more bespoke experience or want to include additional services (like private tours, VIP transport, or spa bookings), you can book through a luxury travel agent. These agents often have access to exclusive rates and personalized experiences.

• Advantages:
  • Personalized services tailored to your needs.
  • Can offer curated itineraries, ensuring a seamless trip experience.
  • Often able to secure special access or upgrades based on their industry relationships.

5. Booking for Special Events or Packages

If you’re looking to book for a specific event (such as a wedding, conference, or gala), you can reach out directly to the hotel’s event planning team. The hotel provides tailored event packages that include catering, venue selection, and additional services.

• Contact the Events Team: Email events@emiratespalace.ae for event inquiries or bookings.

6. Using Loyalty Programs

If you're a member of Kempinski's loyalty program, Kempinski Discovery, you can earn and redeem points on your stay. The program offers various benefits, including room upgrades, early check-in, and discounts on dining and spa services.

• Join the Program: You can join Kempinski Discovery directly on their website and start earning rewards on your stays.

Tips for Booking:

• Booking in Advance: Since Emirates Palace is a luxury hotel, it’s recommended to book well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons like holidays (December through January) or during major events (e.g., Formula 1).
• Promotions & Special Offers: Look out for seasonal promotions or package deals. The hotel often offers packages that include things like spa credits, meals, or cultural experiences.
• Flexible Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, you may be able to find lower rates or last-minute deals. Try adjusting your booking dates by a day or two to see if prices drop.

Conclusion:

Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi is more than just a hotel. It’s a true architectural wonder that encapsulates the spirit of luxury and sophistication. Whether you’re looking to relax in paradise, indulge in gourmet cuisine, or experience Emirati heritage, this magnificent landmark offers a taste of the finest life has to offer. Make sure to add Emirates Palace to your must-visit list when in Abu Dhabi.

While Emirates Palace is primarily a hotel, it's open to the public for dining and special events. Visitors can book a table at one of its renowned restaurants or simply stop by to admire the architecture and enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea. If you're interested in staying, the hotel offers various packages for both short and extended stays.

Staying at Emirates Palace is certainly a luxurious experience, with rates starting around AED 1,500 per night for a standard room and reaching over AED 100,000 for the most exclusive suites. Dining, spa treatments, and special events can also come with hefty costs, but the experience is undeniably world-class.

Given its level of opulence, Emirates Palace is often considered a destination for special occasions, whether you're celebrating a milestone, enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime stay, or attending a prestigious event.