Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi - city skyline across body of water during daytime
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Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi

4.8
·30k reviews·Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

An iconic beachfront landmark in Abu Dhabi, offering opulent Arabian luxury, exquisite dining, and breathtaking architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoons

Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea.

CrowdMedium
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Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi - city skyline across body of water during daytime

Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi

Best Time

Afternoons

Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea.

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic beachfront landmark in Abu Dhabi, offering opulent Arabian luxury, exquisite dining, and breathtaking architecture.

4.8
(30k reviews)

"A masterpiece of Arabian luxury, redefining opulence with its newly renovated rooms and suites."

Vertical photo
TIP

👗 Dress Modestly

No shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops allowed for entry. Dress respectfully to admire the palace's grandeur.

☕ Book a Cafe Visit

A popular way to see the interior is by booking a cafe reservation. Enjoy a coffee and soak in the luxury.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Architecture

Grand Architecture

Lobby and common areas

Marvel at the opulent gold leaf decor and intricate Arabian design. A true feast for the eyes!

Afternoon Tea Experience

Afternoon Tea Experience

Episodes lounge

Indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea with exquisite pastries and a wide selection of teas.

Beachfront Views

Beachfront Views

Private beach

Enjoy the pristine 1.3 km private beach and breathtaking sea or garden views.

Planning Your Visit

Dress Code for Entry

While Emirates Palace is open to visitors, dress codes are enforced. Avoid shorts, tank tops, and flip-flops to ensure entry. Modest attire is key to experiencing this opulent landmark.

Accessing the Palace

To explore the stunning interiors of Emirates Palace, booking a cafe reservation is a common and recommended method. This ensures you can admire the architecture and gold leaf decor.

Best Times

When
Afternoons
Why
Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea.
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Experience the presidential palace light show.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Top 14 Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi 🇦🇪 1. Jubail mangrove park 2. Sir Baniyas Island 3. Liwa Desert 4. Emirates Palace 5. Al Ain Oasis 6. Louvre Museum 7. Sea World 8. Al Ain Zoo 9. Jebel Hafeet 10. The National Aquarium 11. Qasr Al Watan 12. Emirates National Auto Museum 13. Yas Island 14. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Here is the must visit places in Abu Dhabi , Abu Dhabi Places , Visit Abu Dhabi ,...
@umutdxb
34.4K likes • 1.4M views

👗 Dress Modestly

No shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops allowed for entry. Dress respectfully to admire the palace's grandeur. Reddit+1

☕ Book a Cafe Visit

A popular way to see the interior is by booking a cafe reservation. Enjoy a coffee and soak in the luxury. Reddit+1

Emirati customs: Do's and don'ts Learn the essential do's and don'ts of Emirati customs to navigate the rich cultural landscape of the UAE. Watch our video for some etiquette tips. #nuktadubai #dubai #emirates #uae #dubailife #dubaiexpat #dubailiving
@nuktadubai
29.1K likes • 1.6M views
✨Free Entry✨ Experience luxury like never before at Emirates Palace ✨ A must-visit gem in Abu Dhabi ! Save this for your Weekend and Visit @mo_emiratespalace 📍Emirates Palace , Abu Dhabi [Emirates Palace, must visit this place, dubai, uae, viral, hidden gem, best place, Visit] #winter #popup #cafe #abudhabi #foodie #inabudhabi #abudhabilife #instalike #loveinabudhabi #loveinabubble #viralree...
its_sanakhannnn
482 likes • 7.6K views

💰 Splurge on Cappuccino

Try the famous $20 cappuccino adorned with gold leaf for a unique Emirates Palace experience. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The architecture is stunning! Staff like Jahidul can help capture your perfect palace photo. TikTokInstagram

A masterpiece of Arabian luxury, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi @mo_emiratespalace redefines opulence with its newly renovated rooms and suites, offering breathtaking sea or garden views.🌿Nestled within 100 hectares of lush gardens and a 1.3 km private beach, this iconic retreat invites guests to indulge in world-class relaxation, exquisite dining, and thrilling water sports. ✨🏝️ Wh...
eliteglobetraveler
2.7K likes • 249.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👗 Dress Modestly

No shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops allowed for entry. Dress respectfully to admire the palace's grandeur. Reddit+1

☕ Book a Cafe Visit

A popular way to see the interior is by booking a cafe reservation. Enjoy a coffee and soak in the luxury. Reddit+1

💰 Splurge on Cappuccino

Try the famous $20 cappuccino adorned with gold leaf for a unique Emirates Palace experience. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The architecture is stunning! Staff like Jahidul can help capture your perfect palace photo. TikTokInstagram

✨ Emirates Pass Perks

If flying Emirates, check your boarding pass for potential discounts on activities and dining. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(30k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Emirates Palace is widely praised for its stunning architecture, luxurious ambiance, and high-quality dining experiences, particularly the afternoon tea. Guests often highlight the grandeur and beauty of the property, with many staff members noted for their helpfulness. However, some visitors have experienced service delays, particularly with luggage and buggy services, suggesting room for improvement in operational efficiency.

"It’s really a great place, and everything perfect. We enjoyed every moment here.

The perfection shows every detail and is built by every staff. When we want to take a picture in front of the gate, the staff Jahidul is really helpful and gave us the best picture shooting, even if he stepped into the water. We really appreciate it.

What a nice experience!❤️"

Billy Hu

"Emirates Palace is undoubtedly stunning — the architecture is grand, the rooms are spacious and luxurious, and the restaurants offer a great selection of high-quality food. The property itself is beautifully maintained and truly feels like a palace.

However, the service leaves much to be desired. It took over 40 minutes just to get our bags, and getting a buggy (which is essential given the size of the property) involved long waits every time. It felt like there simply weren’t enough staff to meet the demand, which unfortunately detracted from the overall experience.

With improved service, this could easily be a five-star stay. As it stands, it’s a beautiful hotel with a frustratingly slow pace."

Ayesha Trips

"The stay was truly exceptional — breathtaking views, impeccable service, and an atmosphere of pure luxury. Every detail exudes elegance and refinement, making it well worth the visit. A perfect blend of comfort, sophistication, and unforgettable experiences."

Oliver Scott

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Luxurious ambiance
Exceptional afternoon tea

What People Dislike

Slow service
Long wait times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Emirates Palace is located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Taxis are readily available and a convenient way to reach the palace. If you're coming from Dubai, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. TikTok

Yes, Emirates Palace offers parking facilities for visitors. Valet parking is also available, and you might even meet the tallest Emirati valet! Reddit

If you fly with Emirates, your boarding pass might grant you access to the 'My Emirates Pass' program, offering discounts on various activities and dining across the UAE, potentially including at Emirates Palace or nearby attractions. TikTok

Emirates Palace and Qasr Al Watan (the Presidential Palace) are located next to each other, making them easy to visit in one trip. A short taxi ride or a pleasant walk is possible between the two. Reddit+1

While taxis are the most common and convenient option, you can check local Abu Dhabi bus routes for potential connections, though direct routes to the palace might be limited. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You don't need a specific entry ticket to visit the public areas of Emirates Palace. However, booking a reservation at one of its cafes or restaurants is a common way to gain access and explore the lobby. Reddit+1

Visitors must adhere to a modest dress code. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, and flip-flops. Long trousers or skirts and covered shoulders are recommended. Reddit+1

You can enter the lobby area without a reservation, but you will be subject to the dress code. For access to specific lounges or restaurants, reservations are typically required. Reddit

While formal guided tours might not be readily available for general visitors, you can experience the palace's grandeur by booking a dining or afternoon tea experience. Reddit

The public areas and cafes within Emirates Palace are generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific opening times for dining venues can vary, so it's best to check their individual schedules. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed in the public areas of Emirates Palace. However, always be mindful of other guests and avoid intrusive photography, especially of staff. TikTok

The grand lobby with its gold leaf ceiling and intricate designs is a prime photo spot. The exterior architecture and the beachfront also offer stunning photographic opportunities. Instagram

For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to contact Emirates Palace management in advance to inquire about permits and specific guidelines. Instagram

Morning light can be beautiful for exterior shots, while the interior's grandeur is impressive at any time. Consider the lighting for your desired aesthetic. Instagram

It's important to respect the privacy of staff members. Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Emirates Palace boasts a variety of dining venues, from fine dining restaurants like the Michelin-starred Hakkasan to more casual cafes and lounges offering international and Emirati cuisine. Reddit

Many visitors rave about the afternoon tea experience, praising the exquisite presentation, delicious pastries, and attentive service, particularly from staff like Mr. Dino. Reddit

A cappuccino at Emirates Palace is famously known to be around $20, partly due to the gold leaf decoration. Reddit

While Emirates Palace offers diverse dining, for authentic Arabic cuisine like Mandi and Kunafa, you might explore restaurants in Abu Dhabi city. Reddit

Yes, you can enjoy Saturday lunch dim sum at the Michelin-starred Hakkasan restaurant located within Emirates Palace. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Emirates Palace is a luxurious destination, families can still enjoy a visit by booking a casual meal or afternoon tea. The grand architecture and spacious common areas can be fascinating for children to explore. TikTokInstagram Ensure children are dressed appropriately to meet the dress code requirements. Reddit+1 Consider visiting nearby attractions like Qasr Al Watan or Yas Island's theme parks for more kid-centric activities. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting Emirates Palace on a tight budget requires strategic planning. Instead of a full meal, opt for a coffee at one of the cafes, which is a more affordable way to experience the palace's ambiance. Reddit+1 Be aware that even a coffee can be around $20. Reddit Focus on admiring the architecture from the lobby and taking photos, as entry to these areas is often free with a reservation. Instagram

couples

Emirates Palace offers a romantic setting for couples. Enjoy a sophisticated afternoon tea with exquisite treats and a wide selection of teas, or opt for a fine dining experience at one of its restaurants. Reddit The stunning architecture and luxurious ambiance create a perfect backdrop for a special occasion or a memorable date. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing Emirates Palace as a Visitor

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi is more than just a hotel; it's a landmark that many visitors wish to experience. While staying overnight offers the full luxury immersion, it's possible to get a taste of its opulence without a room booking. The most popular method for visitors is to make a reservation at one of the palace's cafes or restaurants. This allows you to enter the grand lobby and common areas, soak in the stunning Arabian architecture, and admire the gold leaf decorations that adorn the ceilings and walls. Reddit+1 Remember to adhere to the dress code: no shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops are permitted. Reddit+1

For a truly memorable experience, consider the afternoon tea at the Episodes lounge. Guests consistently praise the exceptional service, particularly from staff like Mr. Dino, and the beautifully presented, delicious pastries and teas. Reddit Even a simple coffee can be an experience, with the famous $20 cappuccino adorned with gold leaf offering a unique, albeit pricey, taste of the palace's extravagance. Reddit These experiences provide a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle associated with Emirates Palace, making it a worthwhile visit for many. Instagram+1

Beyond the immediate luxury, Emirates Palace is situated on 100 hectares of lush gardens with a 1.3 km private beach, offering beautiful views and photo opportunities. Instagram While exploring the grounds might be more restricted for non-guests, the visual appeal from accessible areas is undeniable. The palace's proximity to other Abu Dhabi landmarks like Qasr Al Watan also makes it a convenient stop on a day of sightseeing. Reddit

Luxury and Service at Emirates Palace

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is renowned for its unparalleled luxury and opulent design. From its grand architecture to the meticulously maintained grounds, every detail aims to exude elegance and refinement. Instagram+1 The hotel offers a world-class experience, with spacious and luxurious rooms, breathtaking views, and an atmosphere of pure indulgence. Reddit The impeccable service is often highlighted by guests who have stayed overnight, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience. Reddit

However, some visitors have noted that the service, particularly for non-guests or during peak times, can sometimes fall short of expectations. Issues like long waits for luggage or buggies have been mentioned, suggesting that while the property is magnificent, the operational efficiency in managing guest flow could be improved. Reddit Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall sentiment remains that Emirates Palace offers a unique and unforgettable experience, blending comfort, sophistication, and a touch of Arabian grandeur. Reddit The dedication of staff, like Jahidul who assisted with photos, is also frequently cited as a positive aspect. Reddit

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