Southern Sun, Abu Dhabi
More photosIf you are heading to the UAE, the Southern Sun Abu Dhabi is a fantastic base camp. Located right in the bustling Al Zahiya business district, it perfectly bridges old-school Arabic elegance with sleek, contemporary design.
One of the coolest architectural quirks of the building is its clever layout. To guarantee everyone gets a killer view, all 353 guest rooms and suites strictly start on the 10th floor and rise up to the 26th. This design choice ensures that every single guest wakes up to sweeping vistas of either the city skyline or the glittering Arabian Gulf along the Corniche.
Inside, the hotel blends its modern high-rise structure with unique Arabesque interior touches. A standout feature is the traditional, frosted geometric fretwork partitioning the bedrooms and bathrooms, giving the space an authentic, local resort feel despite being a sleek city tower.
Up on the 27th floor sits the hotel’s crown jewel: a glamorous rooftop oasis featuring a pool, private sun cabanas, and a gym. Downstairs, it plays host to The Foundry, a multi-award-winning steakhouse that is famously celebrated by foodies for its theatrical, fine-dining transformation every evening.
Expert reviews
“This shiny high-rise packs in the flair of a hotel twice the price from the moment you walk into the triple-height lobby hung with swooping contemporary lamps. A fresh, modern vibe runs through the rooms with a sprinkle of Middle Eastern design touches thrown in, and there’s a buzzing social vibe throughout thanks to a bundle of popular bars and cafes.”
“A stylish 353-room hotel that’s just a 10-minute walk from the Abu Dhabi Corniche. Situated in the city’s business district, the four-star hotel is suitable for business and leisure travellers and renowned for its steak restaurant.”
What guests liked
- Top location
- Swimming pool
- Comfortable beds
- Friendly staff
Location
Other Abu Dhabi hotels
Sofitel Corniche, Abu Dhabi
The Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche is a striking luxury hotel anchoring the Capital Plaza complex right on the city's northwest shore. Opened in 2012 as the French brand's very first property in the UAE capital, it immediately stood out for its seamless blend of European elegance and traditional Arabic hospitality.
Lonely Planet + 1 more“Slap on the Corniche and packed full of facilities, you can’t really go wrong staying in the Sofitel’s large, light-filled rooms. The two rooftop pools (one kept specifically for families with wee ones) are where most guests hang out, though after dark many are tempted into Jazz & Fizz for a drink or two.”
Conrad Etihad Towers Hotel, Abu Dhabi
If you are looking for pure architectural drama in Abu Dhabi, the Conrad Etihad Towers is it. Designed by the Australian firm DBI Design, this five-tower complex looks like a cluster of sleek, curved sails rising right out of the Arabian Gulf. The hotel itself is tucked into Tower 1, combining ultra-luxury with some seriously bold engineering.
Lonely Planet + 1 more“The lobby’s show-stopping glass wall ushers you into this exclusive cocoon where guests float from spa treatment to private beach before choosing between some of the city’s top-class restaurants and bars once the sun goes down.”
Rosewood, Abu Dhabi
Rosewood offers a luxurious hotel experience that caters to the whole family. The property, with its sleek and contemporary design, is located right by the waterfront, providing breathtaking views. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a refreshing welcome beverage, immediately creating a sense of relaxation.
Lonely Planet + 3 more“From Glo, its rooftop pool-bar, at the tip to snug wine-haunt La Cava secreted in its toe, the Rosewood is one sophisticated customer. Rooms exude contemporary, non-stuffy style with lashings of white, and baths overlooking the waterway.”
The Edition, Abu Dhabi
Marriott's EDITION, a high-end boutique concept, is globally adaptable. The overall aesthetic, blending sophisticated boutique-inspired design with true luxury hotel amenities, echoes its counterparts in locations such as New York and Milan. Yet, the Abu Dhabi EDITION carries a distinctive local flair; even its architectural outline pays homage to the traditional ship sails of the Arabian Gulf.
Forbes + 1 more“Debuted in November 2018 as EDITION’s first property in the Middle East, The Abu Dhabi EDITION is a stunning microcosm of the city it inhabits. While Arabian culture and heritage are referenced prolifically throughout the property, this place is thoroughly modern and adds a dash of high-octane glamor to Abu Dhabi’s crowded hotel scene.”