Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi

Delivering striking grandeur and an array of fabulous amenities, the palatial Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, is a wonder to behold for all who venture through its magnificent gates.

This pinnacle of extravagance is immediately recognisable on the Abu Dhabi skyline, conjuring an air of mystery and Arabian beauty. Costing over $3 billion, with a mind-blowing array of facilities, this national landmark is one of the most architecturally impressive hotels ever built. Set on 1.3 kilometres of private white-sand beach and surrounded by 85 hectares of impressively maintained gardens, this wondrous resort is just 25 minutes’ drive from Abu Dhabi Airport.

The 390 gilded and marble-clad rooms and suites come in an impressive array of sizes and specifications and are split between the east and west wings. Each wing benefits from its own reception, beach access, swimming pool and fitness centre. All rooms and suites are furnished to the highest levels of comfort and come with private butler service and stunning views of the city, sea and gardens. Among them you’ll find the region’s first vegan rooms, with furniture, fixtures, bedding, accessories and equipment all made from non-animal-based products and materials, as well as vegan minibar offerings, plant-based bathroom amenities and vegan skincare products by Tata Harper.

A mass of amenities includes a kids’ programme, tennis and fitness facilities, a private marina with a PADI dive centre, lazy river, waterslides, relaxation pool, various watersports and a beautiful 1,500-square-metre spa. The dozen dining options are equally diverse with styles, locations and genres to suit every taste and impulse, including Michelin-star Italian restaurant, Talea by Antonio Guida.