Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi

The Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, a Michelin Key Selected property, offers a luxurious and culturally rich experience with stunning views and exceptional service.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently rating it highly. It consistently receives "Exceptional" or "Superb" ratings, with an average of 9.0 on Booking.com, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor, and 4.6 "Excellent" on MakeMyTrip. Guests often describe their stays as "amazing," "unforgettable," and "simply amazing," highlighting the beautiful property and excellent service.

2. Key Highlights

Guests particularly love the hotel's breathtaking location with panoramic views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, especially at sunrise and sunset. The private beachfront and multiple outdoor pools, including an infinity pool overlooking the canal, are significant draws. The traditional Arabic gondola (Abra) rides through the hotel's waterways, connecting guests to the adjacent Souk Qaryat Al Beri, are a unique and cherished amenity. CHI, The Spa, with its outdoor pools and a range of Asian-inspired treatments, is also a highly praised feature.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri are generally described as luxurious, spacious, and elegantly designed in a modern Arabic style with warm, rich colors. Many rooms boast private balconies or terraces offering magnificent views of the gardens, the Arabian Gulf, or the Grand Mosque. Standard amenities include comfortable, large beds with high-quality linens, flat-screen TVs, complimentary fruit, and large marble and mosaic bathrooms featuring deep bathtubs and separate walk-in rainfall showers. Suites often provide additional perks like Nespresso machines, pillow menus, Bulgari bath products, and access to the Horizon Club. While many reviews praise the furnishings and design, some guests have noted that certain rooms and amenities can feel "old and dated."

4. Dining Experience

The hotel is a renowned culinary hub, offering a diverse range of dining options. Shang Palace is celebrated for its authentic Chinese cuisine, while Bord Eau provides a fine dining French experience, and Hoi An serves delectable Vietnamese specialties. Sofra bld, the main restaurant, offers a lavish international buffet, particularly praised for its extensive and high-quality breakfast, including freshly squeezed juices and a wide array of Middle Eastern and international staples. Guests have highlighted the excellent quality of the food across various restaurants, with some mentioning impressive sushi, seafood, and decadent dessert selections, including chocolate fountains.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri consistently receive glowing reviews. Guests frequently commend the team for being welcoming, friendly, helpful, and exceptionally attentive. Many reviewers mention specific staff members by name for their outstanding hospitality and for going "above and beyond" to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay. The personalized touch and willingness to accommodate requests are recurring themes in guest feedback.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel boasts a prime location in the Al Maqta district, situated on a private beach with picturesque views of the Khor Al Maqta strait and the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It is conveniently located just a 10-15 minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport and the Grand Mosque. The hotel offers complimentary Abra rides to the adjacent Souk Qaryat Al Beri, providing easy access to shopping and local crafts. While the immediate area primarily consists of other large hotel properties, bus connections are available to the Corniche and downtown Abu Dhabi. However, some guests have noted ongoing construction of a housing estate across the canal, which can occasionally lead to mild noise and impact views.

7. Value & Pricing

Guests generally perceive Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri as offering good value for money, especially considering the spacious accommodations and extensive amenities provided. While specific pricing can vary, one review mentioned paying approximately £650 for four nights in a Club room plus tax, which was considered reasonable. The range of facilities, including multiple pools, a private beach, a spa, and diverse dining, contributes to the perceived value.

8. Common Complaints

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some recurring criticisms have been noted. A few guests have reported that certain rooms and amenities felt "old and dated" or that cleanliness was not consistently up to standard. Some experienced issues with the check-in process, including confusion regarding deposits for room service or minibars, and challenges with room service payment. Occasional complaints about inconsistent Wi-Fi connectivity have also surfaced. While the breakfast buffet is highly praised, it can get very busy later in the morning. A minor point mentioned by one guest was the limited variety on the evening snack menu, often focusing heavily on pasta options. The nearby construction has also been a source of mild noise for some.

Sources

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