Emirates Palace 5*, Abu Dhabi (UAE)

The Definition of Ultimate Luxury

Staying at Emirates Palace is an experience that goes far beyond a traditional luxury hotel. Widely considered one of the most luxurious hotels in the world, it represents grandeur on a scale that feels almost unreal. While Emirates Palace is officially a 5-star luxury hotel, its extraordinary opulence, impeccable service, and monumental design have led many guests and media outlets to refer to it as a “7-star” hotel.  everything about the palace signals that this is a place where no detail has been spared.

A Palace in Every Sense

The sheer scale of Emirates Palace is breathtaking. With its grand domes, expansive courtyards, and immaculate interiors, the hotel feels more like a royal residence than a place to stay. Gold accents, marble floors, and intricate architectural details are present everywhere you look, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance and prestige.

Despite its size, the hotel never feels overwhelming. Instead, it feels perfectly orchestrated, with a sense of calm luxury that follows you through every space.

Rooms Designed for Royal Comfort

The rooms and suites reflect the same attention to detail found throughout the palace. Spacious, refined, and beautifully appointed, they offer an atmosphere of quiet indulgence. From plush furnishings to elegant finishes and generous layouts, everything is designed to make guests feel exceptionally well cared for. Many rooms offer views of the Arabian Gulf or the palace gardens, adding to the sense of serenity and exclusivity.

Service That Sets a Global Standard

What truly elevates Emirates Palace is its exceptional level of service. Every interaction feels polished, attentive, and deeply personal. Staff anticipate needs effortlessly, creating an experience that feels seamless from beginning to end.

It is this combination of flawless service, extraordinary surroundings, and attention to detail that has earned the hotel its legendary reputation and the informal “7-star” label.

Dining, Leisure, and Indulgence

Emirates Palace offers a range of dining experiences that match its status, from fine dining to iconic cafés. Leisure facilities include a pristine private beach, beautifully designed pools, and spaces dedicated to pure relaxation. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet walk through the grounds or an indulgent afternoon overlooking the sea, every moment feels intentional.

Hakkasan

Dining at Hakkasan was a true highlight of my stay at Emirates Palace. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers an elevated take on Cantonese cuisine, combining bold flavors with refined presentation in a beautifully atmospheric setting. From the moment you step inside, the mood feels sophisticated and intimate, making the experience feel special and memorable. Every dish felt thoughtfully crafted, balancing tradition with a modern edge, and the overall experience was both indulgent and unforgettable.

Talea by Antonio Guida

Talea by Antonio Guida is another Michelin-starred restaurant, but this one focuses on Italian cuisine. The atmosphere is elegant yet welcoming, and the menu reflects a deep respect for Italian culinary traditions, elevated with precision and creativity. Each course was beautifully presented and full of flavor, turning the meal into a true dining experience rather than just dinner. It’s the kind of place where you slow down and savor every detail.

Episodes

Breakfast at Episodes was a daily pleasure and the perfect way to start the morning at Emirates Palace. The space feels grand yet inviting, and the selection is impressively diverse, offering beautifully prepared dishes from around the world. Everything felt fresh, abundant, and carefully presented, making breakfast here feel like a luxury experience in its own right and a wonderful way to begin the day.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Emirates Palace is not just a hotel, it is a statement. Staying here feels like stepping into a world where luxury knows no limits and elegance is woven into every detail. Whether or not one chooses to call it a “7-star” hotel, there is no question that Emirates Palace stands in a category of its own.

It is the kind of place that turns a stay into a memory, and a destination into a dream fulfilled.