Located just five minutes away from the city centre, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island is a perfectly positioned home base for exploring our UAE metropolis, where world-renowned cultural landmarks as well as hidden gems are yours for the taking. Who better to draw up a local guide than Abu Dhabi’s in-the-know staff? Tailor your itinerary with their picks – then, explore, retreat and repeat.
A smorgasbord of different appetizers served on silver plates.

Where Our Executive Chef Dines on His Day Off

– Christian Buenrostro, Executive Chef

“I like to go to Meylas Restaurant in Al Raha Beach for traditional Emirati cuisine. From the moment you enter, the details make you feel like you’re taking a trip back in time – like the front door, which is from the 1970s home of a police officer, and the semolina cans used as cutlery holders on the tables. I highly recommend trying Machboos Diyay, a spiced chicken and braised rice dish.”

Stunning white marble mosque at dusk features a minaret with pointed domes at either side; keyhole arches line the entrance.

Cultural Insights from Our Director of Rooms

– Derek Klompien, Assistant Director of Rooms

“My favourite time to tour the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the country, is about 30 minutes before sunset. The dusk light brings out the marble work’s beautiful colours. After your tour, stay around for the ambient lighting, which is equally impressive.”

Close-up of bartender pouring Aged Negroni red cocktail over ice in glass

Where Our Food & Beverage Director Unwinds after Work

– Carlo Laiso, Director of Food and Beverage

“Being Italian, I love my country’s classic cocktail, the negroni. I like to stop at Zuma right next to the Hotel, where I get it with a twist (a touch of Zegroni and Zacapa rum) and then smoked. I recommend sitting at the bar to get a closer view of the mixologists in action.”

Four tall giraffes walking up rocks along riverbed

A Walk on the Wild Side from Our Guest Relations & Concierge Manager

– Caroline Pouzin, Front Office Manager

“Off the coast of Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island is a natural reserve for protected animals like giraffes, oryx, cheetahs and jackals. Half of the island is covered by the Arabian Wildlife Park, where over 13,000 animals live across 5.4 miles (1,400 hectares) of land. It’s an important research and conservation zone, with nature drives, walks, horse-trekking and biking available, and it’s the closest you can get to a real safari without leaving the country. It will take a few hours to get there by boat or seaplane, so it’s perfect for a day trip and a can’t-miss opportunity.”