The gorgeous Saadiyat Island is one of the most spectacular sights of Abu Dhabi, located just 20 minutes from the Abu Dhabi International Airport and surrounded by stunning sea views. This natural island comprises 27sq.km and boasts some of the greatest cultural marvels of the UAE. Kenwood Travel’s own Naina, our Senior Marketing Executive, recently visited this iconic destination and has plenty of enthusiasm to share in her interview below.
Q: Hi Naina! We know there are some incredible hotels out there in Saadiyat. Where did you stay?
I stayed at the Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort for a couple of nights. It was so lovely. I was in a One Bedroom Panoramic Ocean Suite, which really did have amazing ocean views. I could see out for miles. The sunsets were probably the most magical part for me.
Sunset views, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort
I did actually get the chance to visit some other hotels on Saadiyat Island, and those were beautiful too. They all had something different, so even if you don’t stay where I did, there’s a lot to choose from. Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island is the only Ultra All Inclusive resort in Abu Dhabi, and St. Regis Saadiyat Island is crazily luxurious. I liked the Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas too; it had really gorgeous Arabian architecture.
Q: In your opinion, what’s the best thing about Saadiyat Island?
For me, it’s the beaches and nature. The island is a UNESCO heritage site, which does mean motorised watersports are forbidden, but it’s so worth it. There’s so much wildlife there, and if you’re lucky you can see the Hawksbill turtles where they come to nest, or see Arabian gazelles wandering around the island, or spot humpback dolphins out in the sea. I did try to get up early to see the dolphins, but unfortunately, I wasn’t lucky enough to spot any.
Turtle nesting ground, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort
Q: What kinds of visitors would you say Saadiyat appeals to?
Just about anyone, honestly. There’s a lot to do there. I already talked about nature and the beaches, but there’s so much culture there too. The scale and spectacle of everything is so impressive. There’s a Louvre there – the Louvre Abu Dhabi – which is just incredible, I’d definitely recommend it. I think with all the great hotels and how much there is to do, Saadiyat would make a good holiday for anyone. Couples, families, golfers, whoever.
Q: Are there any exciting up-and-coming attractions on the island you might want to go back to see?
From what I was told there are a lot of new museums in progress, so yeah, I definitely want to go back someday. There’s Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, which is supposed to be the biggest Guggenheim Museum when it’s done. There’s the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi too, and the Zayed National Museum will be great for anyone who wants to learn more about the UAE. There’s also the Abrahamic Family House, which is a mosque, a synagogue, and a church all in the same complex. It’s supposed to be the first interfaith complex like that in the UAE.
Q: What would be your three top tips for first-time visitors to Saadiyat Abu Dhabi?
First, definitely set aside a half day to visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi. I know I mentioned it before, but it really is incredible. You’ll want to take the time to fully appreciate all the exhibits. My favourite was probably Nouvel’s Dome, which is a gigantic art piece made up of thousands of ‘stars’ in lots of different layers. As the sun moves through the day it projects amazing shadows across the museum, which are called the ‘rain of light’. It’s beautiful. You can actually take a kayak trip around the museum, too, which is a great time.
My second tip, I’d say you want to wake up early to try to see the humpback dolphins.
Third, make sure to take a proper walk along the 9km beach. It really is gorgeous there.
Naina enjoying the natural light projections at The Louvre Abu Dhabi
Q: Can you summarise your trip in just one sentence?
My trip was really memorable because of all the different experiences I had of culture, nature, and luxury.
Discover Saadiyat Abu Dhabi for yourself
You’ve heard what Naina has to say about this gorgeous island, and now it’s your turn. If you’re excited to experience the wonders of Saadiyat, visit us online or get in touch today on 020 7749 9276, and we’ll be sure to help you plan a Saadiyat holiday to remember.
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