The short answer
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental: what visitors should know first
Only if luxury is the point of the trip. For most families it is better as a look-in for afternoon tea or a dinner than as a base; confirm non-guest access and book dining ahead.
History and context
The story behind Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
The hotel opened in 2005 and was operated by Kempinski until 1 January 2020, when Mandarin Oriental took over and the building was renovated. It was designed by WATG Architects and built by BESIX.
Useful facts
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental facts at a glance
- Location
- Ras Al Akhdar, at the west end of the Corniche
- Stay style
- Palace-style luxury beach hotel
- Location trade-off
- Far from the older city; beachfront and quiet
- Best suited to
- Special occasions and luxury travellers
- Origins
- Opened 2005; Mandarin Oriental since 2020
- Operator
- Mandarin Oriental
Why it matters
Why Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is worth your time
Emirates Palace is the building that put Abu Dhabi's idea of luxury in public view. It cost an estimated US$3 billion, according to Wikipedia, with 114 smaller domes around a central dome and a 1.3 km beach.
For visitors, it matters as a landmark more than a destination. It opposes the quieter heritage sights, and it hosts state events and concerts. If you are on a budget, treat it as a place to photograph from the Corniche, and save the money for the museums.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The central dome
A patterned dome and 114 smaller domes crown the building.
- 02
The private beach
A 1.3 km beach and marina give a calm base in winter.
- 03
Gold and marble interiors
The lobby and halls show the Gulf taste for grand detail.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Treat this as a destination hotel and an occasion, not a quick stop. If you stay, ask for a room with lift access and a short walk to the beach, because the building is wide. If you only want to see it, book a restaurant or afternoon tea and confirm with the hotel what access is allowed.
The central dome, the gold and marble interiors and the long driveway are best seen on arrival. The beach is private, with a long stretch of sand, and is a calm place to sit in the cooler months.
For most families, a single meal here is enough. The hotel is far from the older city, so travel by taxi, and book the return in advance.
Plan with confidence
Before you book the room.
- Confirm non-guest access with the hotel
- Book restaurants well ahead
- Arrange a taxi return
- Check the dress code for dining
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Ras Al Akhdar, west end of the Corniche
- Time needed
- Stay, or 1 to 2 hours for a meal
- Best time
- Cooler months; evenings
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Lifts, level floors and valet service throughout, though the building is very large and corridors are long. Ask about buggy transfers inside the hotel.
- Tickets and access
- Non-guest access is by restaurant or event booking, not walk-in sightseeing. Confirm the current policy with the hotel before you go, and expect dress codes for the restaurants.
Best for
Plan it with
Book with confidence
Check rates at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Compare room types, cancellation terms and breakfast before you book. Ask for a ground-floor or lift-access room if anyone finds stairs hard.
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Travelling with parents?
Lifts, level floors and valet service throughout, though the building is very large and corridors are long. Ask about buggy transfers inside the hotel.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Can I visit Emirates Palace without staying?
Usually by booking a restaurant or event; confirm the current policy with the hotel.
Who runs it?
Mandarin Oriental has operated it since 1 January 2020; Kempinski ran it before.
Is it worth the cost?
Only if luxury is the point. For sightseeing, the museums give better value.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.