Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi

"The Pool Bar For a nightcap, head to the enchanting Pool Bar, and as you sip your concoction, enjoy the cityscape all lit up. From here you can take in a view of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Al Maqta Bridge. The bar is open from 9am to 11:30pm, and the dress code is casual."

"Short of visiting the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque itself, you won’t find a better view of the whitewashed masterpiece than at this Shangri-La hotel, which shimmers like a jewel opposite Abu Dhabi Island on the mainland of the Arabian Peninsula. The rest of the hotel's palatial appeal sprouts from a deep appreciation for Middle Eastern tradition, seen in spectacular carved archways, mosaic-tile baths in the rooms, and winding waterways navigated by an abra (local ferry boat). Hop on board to journey to the hotel’s contemporary take on a souk, where you can purchase clothes, jewelry, and other souvenirs before choosing between French, Vietnamese, and Chinese specialties at four on-site restaurants. Four pools ensure you won’t wilt in the desert heat, while a CHI spa provides soothing comfort for those beat from a day spent skyscraper hopping."

"Set the scene for us. Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat al Beri is reminiscent of an Arabic royal residence. The entrance sits at the top of an ascending driveway—an enchanting introduction to a landmark property on Al Maqta Creek, directly opposite the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque . Who stays here? Arab locals and global tourists wishing to experience Middle Eastern hospitality at its best. The good stuff: Tell us about your room. Our Premier Room, like all of the 214 other rooms, had its own terrace with views over the canal toward the Grand Mosque. The well-appointed and sizable space boasted a king bed, a writing desk, and a luxurious marble bathroom with soaking tub and walk-in shower. The archways and mashrabiya (wooden latticeworks) gave the design an elegant regional sensibility. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth mention? L'Occitane toiletries add another element of luxury to the already luxurious bathrooms; the Chinese silk toiletry bags are similarly luxe touches. Food and drink: What do we have here? There are four full-service restaurants— Bord Eau (French), Hoi An (Vietnamese), Shang Palace (Chinese), and Sofra Blvd (international)—plus casual eateries like the pool bar. For the best views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque at sunset, position yourself on the terrace of the Lobby Lounge and enjoy a sundowner. Did the staff do you right? The service is professional and warm. And anything we missed? Be sure to take a traditional abra (wooden boat) from the hotel to the nearby souk (market)—it's a novel way to get from A to B along the purpose-built waterway. In addition to the outdoor pool, there's an adults-only pool at CHI the Spa, as well as a selection of treatments, a gym, yoga studio, and sauna facilities. Families are well catered for, too, with a dedicated children's activity zone (9a.m. to 6p.m. daily), a splash pool, and various age-based discounts in the all-day restaurant. Bottom line: is it worth it? This hotel exudes Arabic charm and offers a unique setting in one of the most picturesque parts of the city." - Melinda Healy

"Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat al Beri is reminiscent of an Arabic royal residence. The entrance sits at the top of an ascending driveway—an enchanting introduction to a landmark property on Al Maqta Creek, directly opposite the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Our Premier Room had its own terrace with views over the canal toward the Grand Mosque. The sizeable rooms are well appointed, and the bathrooms in particular provide an elegant regional sensibility with archways and wooden lattice work." - Melinda Healy

"Milas, tucked into the first floor of the Shangri-La , decidedly modern with purple neon light fixtures and stark black interiors. But for all the heavy-handed contemporary accents , there are softer tributes to local heritage through touches like old photos and, most notably, the menu. Standouts include the rosemary lamb chops, grilled halloumi, and dill kashmiri: dill bread filled with potato and green moong sprout and served in a tamarind-yogurt sauce with mint chutney. More adventurous eaters should try the chicken livers in a pomegranate-molasses dressing." - Jenna Scatena