POSTCARD FROM ABU DHABI

In September, our 24 Mega-FAM winners jetted off to four beautiful destinations - Abu Dhabi, Maldives, Thailand and Mauritius, before all meeting up in Dubai for our Mega-FAM finale! Helen Waller, our fantastic Marketing Manager at Gold Medal hosted the Abu Dhabi group, keep reading to find out about what they got up to…

Our whistle-stop trip to Abu Dhabi really showcased the diverse experiences awaiting visitors in the region - what an incredible trip. The level of service and accommodation is world-class and customers are spoilt for choice. During our trip we spent time at Ferrari World and Yas Water World. Both parks are great options for a day out full of fun and thrills for visitors of all ages year long - thanks to the indoor areas and cooling waters of the waterpark. With easy and quick transport links to Dubai, Abu Dhabi offer the perfect Arabian twin-centre holiday.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a truly beautiful, architectural masterpiece and a must-visit for anyone visiting the region


Bab Al Shams was so special; a desert escape offering luxurious accommodation, desert adventure and relaxation in a unique setting

 

Ferrari World is a great day out offering a wide variety of rides and attractions for visitors of all ages

Suggest your customers book a twin or multi-centre to make the most of their time in the region. My recommendation would be to spend three or four days in Abu Dhabi, experiencing the cultural sights of the city and thrills of Yas Island; followed by three nights at Bab Al Shams for a unique experience in the desert; before time in Dubai - where a stay at One&Only Royal Mirage is hard to beat due to its world-class restaurants, beachfront setting and great location.


Just a 90-minute transfer, it's easy for your customers to visit the neighbouring Emirates whether they choose to stay in Dubai or Abu Dhabi making each city accessible for a day trip

Getting there with Emirates

Flying with Emirates was a pleasant experience. The check-in process was efficient and they ensured that our group was checked in and seated together. The flight itself was comfortable, with quick and friendly service. The meal offered a nice selection of main courses, complemented by a bar service. The entertainment options were extensive, catering to all tastes. A top tip, although not directly related to the airline, is to use the Silver Marhaba Meet & Greet services at Dubai. This service is excellent for first-time travellers, with welcoming staff who meet you at the arrival gate and fast-track you through all airport formalities.

The St.Regis Abu Dhabi

The first hotel that we stayed at was The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, which offers a renowned Butler Service that elevates a luxury stay to the next level. This complimentary service, available across all room categories, includes packing services, room service, garment pressing, and even drawing a bath. The resort also features the Nation Riviera Beach Club, boasting a 200m beach overlooking the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, beachfront dining, a health and fitness centre, a kids club, and a beautifully renovated swimming pool.

I stayed in a Superior King Room with an Ocean View, which was spacious and had an incredible bathroom with a marble bathtub. The views across the Arabian Sea were breathtaking. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to visit the attractions of Abu Dhabi. This hotel is best suited for short stay guests and couples. Additionally, the hotel hosts exclusive daily ‘rituals’ for VIPs, such as Bloody Mary cocktail-making sessions and Champagne sabering at sunset.

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Canal, Abu Dhabi

This hotel is beautifully located on the Grand Canal, featuring a private beachfront that offers watersports and a lovely resort feel. From the front of the resort, guests can enjoy stunning views over the mosque. The Club Lounge is another standout feature, providing meals, snacks, and refreshments, including alcoholic beverages, from 12:00 to 22:00. This service offers fantastic value and is a great way to maximize your budget.

I stayed in a King Deluxe Room, which was lovely and recently refurbished to a high standard. The room had a modern feel, with a balcony and a spacious bathroom equipped with Diptyque products. The hotel’s unique location provides easy access to all areas of Abu Dhabi, making it convenient for exploring the city. This hotel is well-suited for both families and couples, offering amenities and services that cater to a wide range of guests.

Before meeting up with all of the other groups for the Mega-FAM finale, we headed to Bab Al Shams Desert Resort where we experienced an unforgattable blend of authentic Middle Eastern hospitality and truly unique amenities.

Bab Al Shams

We also stayed at Bab Al Shams, a resort uniquely located in the desert, providing a serene and relaxing atmosphere from the moment you arrive. The resort is truly beautiful, blending Moorish-inspired interiors with modern design, featuring small courtyards and hidden spaces that create a sense of seclusion. The infinity pool offers breathtaking views of the endless desert landscape. One of the standout experiences is Al Hadheerah, an Arabian theatre of open-air dining and live entertainment rooted in ancient, diverse Arabic cultures. The Experience Centre offers a range of activities, including a Desert Stable Tour, horse riding, desert safari drives, stargazing, archery, fat bike desert safaris, and falconry, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

I stayed in a Terrace Desert View Room, which was spacious and beautifully appointed, complete with a cosy window nook, a private terrace with sunbeds, and luxury amenities. The hotel's location is incredible, making you feel as though you’ve escaped to an oasis. The sunsets are dazzling, and the resort is just an hour’s drive from Dubai, making it perfect for a twin-centre option. Bab Al Shams is well-suited for couples and groups, but it also features a playpark and a range of family-friendly accommodation options.

 

 

 

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