Opulence comes in many shapes and sizes in the UAE, where only the extraordinary may stand out: that’s where Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri in Abu Dhabi makes a big mark with its impressive offerings.
The first impression of driving up a ramp into a palatial driveway of Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi builds up the expectation, it is then topped up with Arabesque décor at the vast reception foyer. The melange of exotic flower bouquets on marble top roundtable next to the reception area is perhaps the largest of its kind we’ve seen in the country and makes for a stunning visual, lit up by an equally impressive chandelier. Larger than life-size wall art, installations and woodwork bring to life a bygone era in a modern ambiance.
The magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque comes into view just beyond the reception area, framed beautifully by the sedate views of the Maqta creek in the foreground. The sprawling welcoming Lobby Lounge is a resting zone brought to life with a delectable afternoon tea, an array of savouries and pastries, offered alongside premium coffee and tea. We note that it is easy to be besotted by melodious rendition of classics by the harpist strumming a radiant golden harp.
EXECUTIVE SUITE
The Executive Suite features en-suite bedroom with a separate living room and dining area. The roomy marble mosaic bathroom with dual washbasins, walk-in rainfall shower and separate deep-soaking bathtub makes for a pampered stay.
The opulent 90 – 110 sqm Executive Suite feels larger with two spacious balconies overlooking the creek and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The roominess of the suite is underlined by a stand-out walk-in closet that is guarded by a fortress like door. The rooms come equipped with iPod docking station and modern 40-inch LED TVs in both living and bedroom space.
Executive Suite guests have privileged access to the Horizon Club Lounge which serves a wide range of beverages and canapes all day into late evenings.
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
If Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri makes a big first impression, its rooms and stay thereafter go further. Opulence combined with distinct attention to details is the flavour of the Shangri-La brand of hospitality in Abu Dhabi. Consider a coffee-machine, which is pre-filled with water so the guest may prepare her favourite brew in a moment.
The Essence of Shangri-La, a specially designed air freshener kept next to the entrance door is a signature smell of feel-good that stays with the guests long after the stay. We found another element of the design very thoughtful, the magnifier on the peephole gave the guest the comfort of seeing on the other side form a distance as opposed to squinting one’s eyes.
The hotel’s guest service app is another intuitive service that puts every comfort at one’s fingertips. In-room dining orders, requests for clearing tray or requesting some refills, all these can be made with a few taps and promptly serviced by attending staff.
OUTLETS, FACILITIES
If you are a culinary enthusiast seeking an exquisite dining experience, look no further than Shang Palace, the distinguished signature restaurant of the hotel. Offering a delightful array of authentic Cantonese dishes, this restaurant is a haven for food connoisseurs with a passion for exceptional flavours and impeccable service.
Hoi An offers a delightful Vietnamese dining experience, while Sofra Blvd awaits as the all-day dining option.
The Horizon Club lounge is a great add-on for business professionals, with an array of amenities aimed at promoting productivity, relaxation and convenience, including evening canapes and cocktails.
Part of a big complex, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri lies adjacent to Shangri-La Residences, a traditional souk, Traders Hotel and the CHI Spa. The property is interconnected via relaxing (and free) abra boat rides on a meandering waterway.