Originally published in Vicarious Issue 026. This version has been updated for digital presentation.
Set along a private crescent of white-sand beach, with the domes of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque rising gracefully across the water, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri is the kind of place that quietly redefines what luxury feels like. It doesn’t announce itself loudly. Instead, it unfolds, moment by moment, through thoughtful details, warm hospitality, and a setting that feels both expansive and deeply personal.
Arrival is a moment in itself. A grand entrance framed by traditional Arabian architecture sets the tone, but it’s the immediate sense of calm that lingers. Inside, the design strikes a careful balance; rich textures, warm tones, and intricate detailing that nod to heritage without feeling overly formal. It’s elegant, yes, but also inviting.
The rooms continue that narrative. Spacious and beautifully appointed, they offer a retreat that feels intentionally removed from the pace of the city. Floor-to-ceiling windows invite the outside in, while private balconies deliver sweeping views of either the tranquil waterways or the open sea beyond. It’s the kind of space where mornings stretch a little longer and evenings arrive a little softer. Thoughtful touches, plush bedding, intuitive service, and meticulous housekeeping ensure that comfort is never in question.
At the heart of the property, the CHI Spa offers a slower rhythm. Tucked among lush gardens and reflective pools, it’s a sanctuary within a sanctuary. Treatments here lean into holistic traditions, but even without a scheduled appointment, the atmosphere alone encourages you to pause. Outdoor pools shimmer under the Abu Dhabi sun, inviting long, unhurried afternoons.
Dining, meanwhile, is a journey of its own. At Sofra BLD, the energy is vibrant, with live cooking stations and a menu that spans continents while remaining grounded in regional flavour. It’s the kind of place where breakfast can turn into brunch without much thought. For something more refined, Bord Eau delivers French cuisine with precision and artistry, each dish thoughtfully composed yet deeply satisfying. And at Shang Palace, tradition takes centre stage, where dim sum and expertly prepared duck are presented with ceremony and care.
One of the hotel’s most memorable experiences, however, doesn’t happen on land. The traditional abra, an elegant nod to the region’s heritage, glides through the property’s network of waterways, offering a perspective that feels almost cinematic. Whether timed with the first light of day or the golden glow of sunset, it’s a simple pleasure that becomes something unforgettable.
As evening settles in, the Amalfi Beach Lounge brings a subtle shift in mood. Inspired by the Italian coast yet firmly rooted in its surroundings, it’s a place where handcrafted cocktails meet the soft rhythm of the sea. Across the water, the mosque begins to glow, its reflection dancing gently with the tide, a view that feels both grounding and quietly spectacular.
It would be easy to spend your entire stay within the embrace of the hotel, and many do. But beyond its walls, Abu Dhabi reveals a layered identity, cultural landmarks, contemporary museums, and vibrant souks waiting to be explored. The beauty of staying here is knowing you can step out into that world, then return to something that feels effortlessly serene.
In the end, what defines Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri isn’t just its setting or its design, it’s the way it makes you feel. Relaxed, considered, and just a little reluctant to leave.
Our advice? Stay longer. You’ll understand why.
Website: Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi