Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri is the hotel for travellers who want a resort feel within reach of the city. It is built in the style of an Arabian village, with low sand-coloured buildings, courtyards, fountains and walkways beside a waterway, and sits on the Al Maqta channel with views across the water to the white domes of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. That outlook is the signature of the stay, especially at dusk, when the mosque lights come on and the water reflects them. The grounds are generous and leafy, with several pools, a stretch of beach, gardens and plenty of quiet corners, and the whole property has a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere that contrasts nicely with the busier city hotels. Rooms are large, with traditional touches and balconies or terraces in many categories, and the suites and villas are well suited to families and longer stays. Dining ranges from casual all-day cafes to Asian and Middle Eastern restaurants and a lively evening scene, and the spa is a highlight for anyone who wants to slow down.
Location and getting around
The hotel sits on the Al Maqta waterfront, close to the main bridges that connect the island to the mainland and to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which is a short drive away. The Corniche, Qasr Al Watan and the Louvre Abu Dhabi are each around fifteen to thirty minutes by car, depending on traffic, and taxis and ride-hailing apps are easy to find. The airport is a quick run in the other direction.
Rooms and who it suits
Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with elegant, softly traditional decor and large bathrooms, and many have views of the water or the mosque. The hotel suits couples after a romantic stay, families who want pools and space for children, and anyone who prefers a quieter base with resort facilities to a central tower. Business travellers also use it for its meeting spaces and its position beside the main road network.
Good to know
Because the property is spread out, it can mean a short walk or buggy ride between your room and the facilities, so ask for a room near the areas you will use most. Dining and drinks are priced at the luxury level, and the breakfast spread is generous. Check the beach, kids club and spa arrangements when you book, as access and hours can vary with the season. A taxi is the simplest way to reach the major sights.
Dining and downtime
The hotel has a good spread of restaurants, from relaxed all-day cafes to Asian and Middle Eastern kitchens, and the waterfront terraces are the nicest places to sit as the evening light fades. A spa and wellness area is on site for anyone who wants to start or end a busy sightseeing week with a massage or a swim, and the gardens are good for early-morning walks before the heat builds. Families will find that children are well looked after.
Why stay here
- ✓Views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- ✓Multiple outdoor pools
- ✓Beach access on the property
- ✓Spa and wellness centre
- ✓Fitness centre
- ✓Kids club and family facilities
- ✓Several restaurants and bars
- ✓Landscaped waterfront gardens
Good questions
Can you see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from the hotel?+
Many rooms and public areas look across the water to the mosque. Ask for a mosque-view room when you book.
Is it good for families?+
Yes. It has pools, a beach, a kids club and spacious rooms and suites, though check the details of each when you book.
How far is it from the main sights?+
The Grand Mosque is a short drive, and Qasr Al Watan, the Corniche and the Louvre are about fifteen to thirty minutes away by taxi.
