Arrival/Check-In: I arrived in the evening and was looking to check in quickly, freshen up and meet business associates at Frankie’s Italian Restaurant & Bar in the hotel. However, I couldn’t help but pause to take in the lobby’s striking décor — modern and funky, with windows and glass installations. A unique and fresh lobby design. I was staying on the Fairmont Gold floor, and I was whisked to the seventh floor, where my check-in was personalized and private.

Guest Quarters: The room was complemented by the exclusivity and privileges associated with the Fairmont Gold experience; I enjoyed lounge access, newspapers and magazines, complimentary Internet, breakfast, coffee service and afternoon canapés. The room was spacious, comfortable and beautifully adorned. The ample closet space was to the right of the entrance, and a large, elegantly appointed bathroom was to the left. Farther in the room were a desk and a sitting area. The king-sized bed looked inviting after my long flight, with its turned-down linens and plethora of pillows, but I resisted and headed to dinner. Two nightstands flanked the bed, which was across from the television. I would have liked to spend more time in the room, as I found the décor calming. The view was stunning.

Services/Amenities: During my stay, I dined at Frankie’s as well as Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill. Both meals were quite good, and I forgot I was dining in a hotel restaurant both times, as they are private and removed from the hotel hustle and bustle. There are five other options for dining. The hotel has a quaint chocolate shop where guests can watch chocolatiers make scrumptious-looking confections. I spent time in the 24-hour fitness center, which was well equipped but always busy when I visited. The beach and pools are inviting; the property includes a Jacuzzi, two outdoor pools and two private beaches. Conference and event facilities are available; I watched two events being set up, and both looked very chic. Wandering the property, guests will find plenty to do and lots to look at during their stay.

The Experience: Fairmont Bab Al Bahr is trendy and cool but, at the same time, comfortable and Zen-like. This property is a good fit for many different types of travelers.

GT Checklist

• Doorman/valet
• Reasonable arrival-to-room time
• Separate tub and shower
• Large vanity
• High-quality towels
• Large, flat-screen television
• Large desk with convenient outlets
• >Complimentary WiFi
• Ample lighting
• Quality bed linens
• Choice of pillows
• Powerful, unattached hair dryer
• Iron and ironing board
• Easy-to-set alarm clock
• On-site restaurant and bar
• 24-hour room service
• Coffeemaker in room
• Large, complimentary laptop safe

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

Between the Bridges
P.O. Box 114304
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
tel 971 2 654 3333
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr