REVIEW: A Home Away from Home in the Heart of Abu Dhabi
Tucked within the tranquil yet well-connected neighbourhood of Al Seef, Abu Dhabi, lies a hidden gem that seamlessly blends the comfort of home with the elegance of a resort: Al Seef Resort & Spa by Andalus. During my recent stay, I discovered that this property is far more than just a place to rest your head, it’s a destination in its own right.
From the moment I stepped into the warm, inviting lobby, I was struck by an immediate sense of ease. There’s something inherently calming about the soft lighting, plush seating, and friendly staff who greet you not with the formality of a hotel, but with the relaxed warmth of a host welcoming you into their home. It sets the tone for what becomes a remarkably homely experience.
I had planned to attend a festival just 15 minutes away, but quickly realised I found my Abu Dhabi spot to stay during the winter festivals and events. I was completely charmed by the cosy setting.
The apartment
My accommodation was an apartment-style suite that felt more like a beautifully curated Airbnb than a conventional hotel room. It featured a generous living area with comfortable furnishings and thoughtful décor — ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring. The kitchenette, fully equipped with modern appliances, made it easy to prepare my own meals or snacks — a welcome touch for travellers seeking flexibility and independence. The real charm, however, lay in the space itself. This wasn’t just a room; it was a full living space that allowed me to truly settle in. Whether I was lounging on the sofa with a book or enjoying a morning coffee at the dining table, it genuinely felt like a home away from home.
Location, Location, Location
We were in town for a two-day festival on Yas Island, so the location of Al Seef Resort & Spa couldn’t have been more ideal. Just a quick 15-minute drive to all the action, it made getting to and from the event each day incredibly easy. What made the stay particularly special, though, was the balance it offered. It wasn’t all noise and crowds, quite the opposite. With plenty of downtime during the day, we relished returning to the resort’s peaceful atmosphere. Nestled away from the hustle and bustle, it gave us the chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy moments of calm amidst a lively weekend. Whether grabbing a bite, lounging by the pool, or simply unwinding in our spacious suite, Al Seef felt like the perfect retreat.
A Destination Within a Destination
One of the standout aspects of staying at Al Seef was discovering that I didn’t need to leave the resort to enjoy myself. The on-site dining options were a delight, offering vibrant, stylish settings for both breakfast and dinner. Mornings began with a fresh and flavourful spread, while evenings provided a more refined dining experience, with menus to suit all tastes.
Between meals, the resort offers an array of leisure options. The outdoor swimming pool is a serene oasis, perfect for both morning laps and late afternoon relaxation. For those seeking something a little different, the property features quirky, unexpected attractions like tufting — a modern, playful art form growing in popularity, as well as a charming library space, ideal for book lovers or anyone looking for a quiet place to read or work.
Whether you're a solo adventurer in search of comfort and connectivity, a couple attending a nearby event, or a family exploring Abu Dhabi’s many attractions, Al Seef Resort & Spa by Andalus offers the ideal combination of location, space, and hospitality. It’s not your typical cookie-cutter luxury hotel and that’s precisely what makes it so appealing.
Visit: alseefresort.com
Hayley is a lover of all things 90s art, fashion and music. Her obsession with glossy, artful coffee table books began during her early days in book publishing. She collects luxury magazines from around the world, explores creative workshops across the city and chases dinners with a view, ideally by the beach.
