Those that like to be in the thick of things when it comes to festive celebrations, will need to book their stay at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. Its location at the tip of the capital’s corniche, affords it stellar views from all of its 66 floors, but none more so than at the 74th-floor Observation Deck, where panoramic views stretch out across the city and sea.
The stage is well and truly set for a fantastic festive season, thanks to a series of beautiful events and experiences. The celebrations are ushered in on December 8 with a tree lighting ceremony in the Lobby Lounge, followed by a Festive Afternoon Tea on December 9, with specially created sweet and savoury pastisseries by Executive Pastry Chef, Sumeda Palihakkara.
Just before the ‘big day’ arrives, Christmas Eve sets the tone with a gorgeous dinner at Ray’s Bar, featuring pan-roasted slow-cooked organic turkey or slow-braised US short rib. Or, for a little Spanish twist to proceedings, José by Pizarro wishes you Feliz Navidad with a festive-inspired tapas menu and live music, while Sole brings Italian cuisine into the mix with a special Christmas Eve menu.
On December 25, all Christmas celebrations start and end with good food, and you can enjoy that at the Nahaam and Sole Christmas brunch in which the two restaurants join forces to put on an incredible festive feast, or at the sophisticated hideaway that is Ray’s Grill on the 63rd floor, with its 360-degree views of the city and Arabian Gulf.
As for New Year’s Eve, no stone is left unturned in the quest of creating a celebration to remember. You can choose from an evening brunch at Nahaam and Sole, a four- or seven-course set menu at Ray’s Grill, an à la carte Middle Eastern evening at Li Beirut, and a night of Spanish tapas and wine at José by Pizarro.
Or if you prefer to save your celebrations until closer to midnight, you can book a table at The Observation Deck at 300 from 10pm to 12.30am, to sip drinks, nibble on canapés and watch the capital’s firework display from the highest vantage point in the city.