Tried and Tested: Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
BACKGROUND: Fairmont Bab Al Bahr opened in Abu Dhabi in October. Most of the hotel is complete, but the Willow Stream Spa is yet to open. There are more properties planned for the region including The Palm Jumeirah and Makkah in Saudi Arabia.
THE ARRIVAL: Bab Al Bahr is conveniently located on Abu Dhabi Creek, next to the Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts complex. It is easily accessible from Abu Dhabi Airport (about 15 minutes) or by road (around one hour from Dubai).
The hotel makes a statement with its modern and unusual facade. Some have criticised this contemporary structure, but personally I think it makes for an interesting and unique proposition. More impressive is the lobby area, which continues the modern theme.
It takes a minimalistic approach to design, yet is not under-furnished. The vast space, characterised by mirrors and glass, has been carefully put together featuring unusually-shaped seating and lighting with contrasting fabrics and finishes, and Swarovski crystal dotted around for a sparkling finish.
All this made for an impressive arrival experience, complemented by efficient and friendly valet parking and front desk staff.
THE ACCOMMODATION: There are 369 rooms and suites in total. We stayed in a Fairmont Gold View Suite with views overlooking the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Abu Dhabi Creek. The one-bedroom suite (complete with king-sized bed) boasts a separate living space equipped with high-speed internet, LCD TV, working desk, sofa, plus a novel bathroom where the shower and bath room is combined.
The WC and double vanity unit are separate and feature ample amenities. Design wise, the theme is “organic” with marble, walnut wood panelling and bamboo-inspired soft furnishings.
Guests staying in one of the Fairmont Gold rooms are offered private check-in and check-out and full use of the Fairmont Gold lounge where breakfast is served, as well as afternoon tea and evening cocktails with canapés.
Even though guests using the facilities are predominantly business travellers, kids are well catered to. There are jars of sweets on tap all day !
THE F&B: This really is something to write home about. The hotel boasts several outlets, but one not to miss is the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill – the first of its kind outside the UK. A relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere pervades.
I can highly recommend the crab cake to start followed by what I believe is one of the finest Wagyu steaks I have ever tasted, cooked to perfection. The UK chef has also collaborated with jockey Frankie Dettori to create Frankie’s Italian Restaurant and Bar.
Other outlets include casual all-day dining restaurant Elements; the Chameleon bar, with vintage champagnes, cocktails and a resident DJ; plus the Poolside restaurant and bar; and The Chocolate Gallery. A Lebanese restaurant and lounge is opening soon.
THE FACILITIES: Include 2500m² of function space, a private sandy beach, two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre and the soon-to-be-completed Willow Stream Spa, which will offer several signature treatments.
RATES: Rates are available via the GDS, your wholesaler or the hotel direct, but worth a mention is the 36-hour weekend package, which includes early check-in (12 noon), one night in a Fairmont Room, Friday brunch for two at Elements, use of the hotel’s leisure facilities, buffet breakfast for two in Elements, lunch for two at Poolside, plus late check-out (6pm).
It’s ideal for Dubai residents seeking a weekend away. Prices start from AED 1359.
TO BOOK: Travel agents have their own dedicated page on the Bab Al Bahr website: www.fairmont.com/babalbahr (also see http://famousagents.frhi.com/). Alternatively call +971 (0)2 654 3333 or email babalbahr@fairmont.com Also check the GDS and your preferred wholesaler for rates.
EDITOR’S VERDICT
The hotel caters to corporate, MICE and leisure travellers thanks to its creek-side/beach-side location, expansive leisure and corporate facilities, family-friendly attitude and exquisite F&B offering.
It’s close the airport, ‘new’ Abu Dhabi, ADNEC, plus Yas Island and is easily accessible by road, all of which is a real draw card. For GCC residents, particularly those from the UAE, requiring a weekend break it’s an easy sell.
They can relax on the beach, dine in style, chill out in the Fairmont Gold lounge or if they can prize themselves away from the hotel, excursion propositions are close by in the form of the Grand Mosque.