One of the largest cities in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain is an oasis in the desert. This metropolis is the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature while soaking up the local culture. To help plan your trip, here’s our pick of the best hotels in the city – bookable with Culture Trip.
With its natural springs, open green spaces and date-palm plantations, it’s no wonder Al Ain is known locally as the Garden City. It sits close to the Oman border, and what it lacks in futuristic skyscrapers, it makes up for in Unesco World Heritage sites. To sample all this place has to offer, make one of these top-rated hotels your city base.
Aloft Al Ain
Hotel
The vibe at Aloft Al Ain is contemporary cool, with stylish rooms featuring pops of colour and the rest of the communal areas following the same funky aesthetic. There’s a host of trendy eateries downstairs, but its crowning jewel is the stunning rooftop pool. Here, you can admire the views while grazing on the all-day menu. Come nightfall, the rooftop lounge is a great place to grab a drink, with live DJs doing their thing. Another perk of this hotel is its central location, with easy access to the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium for sport and music events and the restaurants on Al Ain Square.
Hili Rayhaan by Rotana
Hotel
If you’re looking for a conveniently located base, this hotel hits the mark. Attractions such as Al Ain Zoo and Hili Fun City theme park are in reach for day trips, while the Oman border is five minutes away by car. Hili Mall is also next door if you fancy a spot of retail therapy. The hotel has 254 modern rooms and suites with muted Arabian-inspired decor, king or twin beds and lovely views. The Sundeck Pool Café offers a relaxing alcohol-free environment late into the evening.
Radisson Blu Hotel and Resort, Al Ain
Hotel
Built in 1969 for a royal wedding, this hotel offers a romantic ambience. Stroll around the tropical landscaped gardens, or head out to see Al Ain’s magnificent sand dunes and nearby Unesco World Heritage sites. All rooms have balconies overlooking the pool, mountains or gardens. The hotel has several restaurants and bars, including Flavours, which serves up globally inspired dishes, and Paco’s, which offers Tex-Mex plates and live music. The hotel even has an on-site barbershop.
Al Ain Rotana
Hotel
This five-star hotel is less than a half-hour drive from the airport, and the friendly staff, who are available 24 hours a day, go out of their way to ensure your stay is the best. The modern rooms have charming art deco touches and marble-clad bathrooms. The hotel has six restaurants, and its Trader Vic’s tiki-themed bar is a lively local favourite serving outlandish cocktails. To soothe a sore head the morning after, visit Zen the Spa or take a splash in the lovely pool.
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Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet Al Ain Hotel
Hotel
Incredible views await you at this upscale hotel, as it sits in the mountainous region of Al Ain, 914m (3,000ft) above sea level. The 124 light-flooded rooms with fun tropical decor will lift your spirits upon waking. This hotel caters well to everyone, whether you’re on a business trip or a honeymoon. Amenities include three palm-fringed pools, a mini-golf course, a spa and a fully equipped gym.
Ayla Hotel
Hotel
Not far from the Oman border, Ayla Hotel serves as a contemporary sanctuary that’s perfect for relaxing and exploring. Staying in the comfortable rooms and suites here feels like you’re waking up in a luxurious Arabian home that happens to have room service. Whether you’re in the entry-level classic room or the top-tier royal suite, you’ll be well looked after. The Al Ain National Museum is a five-minute drive away, and sightseeing tours can easily be arranged.
Kalpana Satish contributed additional reporting to this article.
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