I had a recent short stay here and really enjoyed it. My thoughts:
Check in - Tried to do a digital check in around 8pm but only single king or single bed queen rooms were available. I double checked and confirmed my reservation was for two twin beds. Once I arrived the front desk said that my bed preference on my profile was for a king bed so that's what they assigned and there were no two twins available. I insisted that I booked for two beds and after "checking with the manager" they were able to find a room. They advised I had missed the lounge hours but they would send up some wine and they asked our preference. I also asked about the Conrad bears and they told me they'd get me one. Went to the room for an hour, showered, changed, and still no wine. I went down to check with the front desk and she said she would call room service to bring it. About 45 minutes pass, still no wine and then a knock at the door. Employee was there with a large Conrad bear for me (excellent!) but sadly no wine. I thanked him for the bear and asked him if there was an update on that wine. He said he would check on it. My friend and I start to give up on the wine and order a pizza from room service since dining options nearby are limited. The pizza arrives about 30 minutes later and with it is the elusive wine! The pizza was actually really good and the wine was serviceable. It started out rocky but by the end of the night I had the room I wanted, my Conrad bear, and complimentary bottle of wine & fruit and a tasty pizza so I was happy.
Room - We got the Twin Executive room which has an interesting design where the sinks, shower, bath and toilet are essentially around the corner from the main room. I like the layout and think it helps to make the two areas feel more separate and private. The only issue is the door that separates the bathroom & shower area tends to push a bunch of air and make a loud "woosh" sound when closed. The toiletries are larger than normal and shaped like the Etihad towers. The pen had a passive stylus tip on the top which I don't think I've seen yet at a Conrad. Also got a few Covid related goodies like a mask and aerosol disinfectant spray.
Hotel - The hotel is located in tower 1 of the Etihad Towers. Also known for the infamous Fast and the Furious building leap scene. It's a very grand complex with an impressive valet area and lobby with huge windows. The hallways and elevators have lots of marble accents and look very decadent. The hotel was tastefully decorated with Christmas decorations as well as some F1 artwork and memorabilia for the upcoming race. There is also an observation deck on the 74th floor of Tower 2 which connects to the lobby. Hotel guests get free entrance which is nice since entry is usually $25. We were able to go twice, one during the day and once at night. The views of Qasr Al Watan, Emirates Palace, and the surrounding area are excellent and I'd highly recommend a visit. There were also a few live performances in the lobby from various dancers and performers. There was a flyer in the elevator about some Russian circus performers but not sure if that's what it was.
Pool/Beach - There are several large pool areas on the rear side of the building and the property also has a small private beach. The beach was enjoyable with the weather and seating was plentiful. However the view from the beach is basically several in-progress construction projects across the water on a man made island. Not much to look at and the power tools sort of disrupt the atmosphere. Service was attentive though with flavored water and fruit skewers being brought out for guests.
Location - Located near the presidential palace Qasr Al Watan and Emirates Palace at the west end of Abu Dhabi. Amazing architecture in every direction but not a very walkable area and not many food options. We walked around a bit to see some of the nearby buildings at eye level but mostly traveled by Uber to get everywhere else. Rides to the Louvre were about $15-$20 depending on surge pricing. Rides to the Grand Mosque were similar. About 20 mins ride for each.
Food/Beverage - Executive lounge was still closed unfortunately so they had happy hour at Nahaam and breakfast at Rosewater. Happy hour at Nahaam was prix fixe style food plate and drinks on order. Food plate was fried calamari, falafel, dumpling, tomato with mozzarella, and cracker with olive and cheese. Not bad but not great. Abu Dhabi was stricter with Covid protocols so I don't think buffet style was an option. With that in mind, service was pretty slow as the staff seemed a bit overwhelmed having to serve everyone individually. The hotel also had staff and concierges assisting guests with the Al Holsn Covid App so that bogged things down further. Breakfast at Rosewater was excellent. Diamond members were seated in a separate area and got to order items from a special Diamond menu. The regular buffet had a large selection of high quality items including a fresh honey bar but items had to be served by staff due to covid restrictions. Overall the breakfast was excellent and one of the highlights of the stay.
Staff - Entire staff was super professional and friendly. Staff members would greet you just walking by and always acted with highest level of level of courtesy. (Welcoming both guests by name, apologizing for any wait or inconvenience, great eye contact and demeanor). Solid all around.
Overall it was a great stay and a beautiful property. There are many elements to the property and you can move about them pretty seamlessly. The Diamond breakfast menu is a great perk, cool toiletries/amenities, unlimited access to an observation deck you can reach from the lobby, a quiet private beach, and nice rooms. Would happily stay here again.
