Why Book Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri
Positioned along the Khor Al Maqta creek with uninterrupted views across to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri offers a wonderful balance of architectural heritage and waterfront calm. Built around a winding network of private waterways and lush botanical gardens, the property feels like a genuine retreat hidden away within the capital. It provides a sense of sanctuary without feeling isolated, making it the perfect destination for an unhurried weekend staycation.
The Location
The resort occupies a prime stretch along Khor Al Maqta within the Qaryat Al Beri complex, sitting directly across the tranquil water from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. While the setting feels delightfully secluded, it remains remarkably practical for getting around the city. Zayed International Airport is a quick 15-minute drive away, central Abu Dhabi can be reached in 20 minutes, and the cultural treasures of Saadiyat Island are just a 25-minute journey from the front door.
The Vibe
From the moment you step onto the grounds, the resort makes an immediate impression. Intricate carved archways, latticed stonework, and sprawling gardens filled with date trees create an environment that feels deeply considered rather than merely decorative. The creek moves quietly alongside the property, establishing an atmosphere of gentle calm that instantly slows your pace. The hotel wears its Arabesque identity naturally and authentically, creating a cohesive backdrop that is effortless to settle into. Having two full nights meant there was no pressure to fit everything in on the first day, which made for a much more relaxed experience overall.
The Stay
Arriving on Friday afternoon, we were served Arabic coffee and dates on arrival, and the reception staff took care of the finer details in advance, making the whole check-in process feel easy. Our stay in the Deluxe Room was defined by comfort and quiet luxury. The room balances traditional Middle Eastern design with modern refinements, featuring warm wood accents, rich fabrics, and warm tones. A private balcony detailed in geometric Arabesque stonework offers front-row views over the canal and beach.
The marble bathroom is a highlight, complete with a deep soaking tub, separate rain shower, and premium bath amenities. Thoughtful touches, like an intuitive work desk, plush bedding, and 24-hour room service, make it a space you genuinely want to spend time in.
The Food & Drink
Dining across our two-night stay covered impressive culinary ground, with every venue offering something memorable. Breakfast at Sofra bld sets a lively, welcoming tone, designed around a souq-style layout where chefs prepare dishes rooted in their regional traditions. On Saturday afternoons, the restaurant transforms for the Gardens of Babylon Brunch.
Taking inspiration from the legendary Hanging Gardens, this garden-themed feast is a celebratory and abundant affair. Live cooking stations spill over with everything from fresh seafood, sushi, and hand-rolled dim sum to pan-seared foie gras and live carving stations, all complemented by signature mixology, ethically sourced eco-friendly grapes, and live music that gives the afternoon a vibrant, celebratory rhythm. Dinner at Shang Palace on Saturday evening was, by contrast, a more refined occasion.
The restaurant has been serving Chinese cuisine in Abu Dhabi for some time now, and the confidence that comes with that longevity shows in the food. We started with a Sichuan Spicy Shredded Chicken Salad with bean sprouts and cucumber, which struck a good balance between heat and freshness, followed by Steamed Tiger Prawns with golden garlic, pickled chilli and glass noodles.
The centrepiece was the Roasted Beijing Duck, served tableside with pancakes, hoi sin sauce, cucumber and leek, and handled with the kind of quiet ceremony the dish deserves. A Stir-Fried Beef Rib Eye with black pepper sauce rounded out the savoury courses before a Chilled Fresh Mango Soup with sago and pomelo brought things to a clean, light close. Dishes were precise and well-executed, with none of the heavy-handedness that can sometimes accompany Chinese fine dining in hotel settings.
The Facilities
One of the most charming aspects of the hotel is its traditional canal system. Taking a morning ride on a traditional wooden Abra boat as it glides through the waterways offers a completely unique perspective on the architecture and lush grounds. Outdoor relaxation is centered around a pristine one-kilometre private beach, a sun-drenched outdoor infinity pool, and private cabanas that invite you to lounge for hours.
A highlight of the weekend was taking time out at Chi, The Spa. Grounded in Asian wellness heritage, the space is designed as a tranquil sanctuary. The signature Hammam treatment draws on traditional bathing rituals to create an experience that feels genuinely restorative and deeply relaxing.
The Verdict
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri is a hotel that truly rewards you for taking things slow. With its peaceful waterways, authentic cultural warmth, and exceptional dining, it remains one of Abu Dhabi’s most inviting addresses for an elegant, refreshing escape.
