Accommodation choices for groups or longer stays in the UAE capital
Looking to stay slightly longer in the UAE, or do you have family and friends staying and it’s looking a little too cosy in your house?
We’ve put together a list of the top 10 services apartments or “aparthotels” that we have both experienced and stayed in as well as come highly recommended by other parents in the Abu Dhabi community.
You can click on our favourites here (will take you straight to Booking.Com, our preferred hotel supplier) or read on into the detail to see which ones might suit your group best.
- Marriott Executive Apartments Downtown
- Park Arjaan by Rotana
- Beach Rotana Residences
- Al Seef Resort & Spa by Andulsa
- Bab al Qasr Residences
- Staybridge Suites Yas Island
- The Eclipse Boutique Suites
- Adagio Abu Dhabi Al Bustan
- Grand Millenium Al Wadha
- Al Manzel Hotel Apartments
For more on best areas to stay in Abu Dhabi, read this article first as we talk you through the city’s various neighbourhoods. When it comes to actually living in the city rather than visiting, your location and daily commute can make a big difference so do factor this in when making your accommodation decision.
This post is part of our Discover the UAE series.
Here you can learn everything about things to do with kids in the UAE, culture & etiquette, exciting new openings, hotels and much more!
Best serviced apartments in Abu Dhabi
Our list attempts to identify places under $500USD per night that can fit 5+ and include self-catering. There are some pricier luxury options we have left off this list that you may also want to consider for something special, including the Shangri-La Residences, Qaryat al Beri or villa options at the Ritz Carlton.
(If you find any of the details have changed since we conducted our last review – October 2018 please drop us a line in the comments below to rectify)
1. Marriott Executive Apartments Downtown
Hotel Location in Abu Dhabi: 1, 2 and 3 Bedroom apartments close to Al Wadha Mall and in the heart of the city action.
Why we like it: Still relatively news, these apartments offer a home-away-from-home feel with all the amenities you could possibly need on hand with large rooms. They come with fully equipped kitchens, including washer and tumble dryer and access to all the hotel pool & gym amenities. Breakfast is not included but you have access to the Marriott hotel restaurant and many nearby options. It’s at the pricier end of the scale but everything is included, parking and internet available free and 24-hour front desk.
Compare prices on Hotels Combined | Read Trip Advisor Reviews | Book it now on Booking.Com
2. Park Arjaan by Rotana
Hotel Location in Abu Dhabi: Next to Khalifa Park, just after the Sheikh Zayed Bridge as you’re entering Abu Dhabi island, it’s a fabulous position to access both on island and off island destinations (some rooms with magnificent mosque views).
Why we like it: The studio, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments are fully equipped with everything you need for a long stay. You have access to a children’s pool and play area, recreation facilities and part of the Park Rotana complex you also have access to several eateries from cafes to fine dining and Coopers Pub. It suffers a little from not being attached to a mall or supermarket.
Compare prices on Hotels Combined | Read Trip Advisor Reviews | Book it on Booking.Com
Note there are many Arjaan hotels in Abu Dhabi that you cannot go too far wrong with when it comes to serviced suites – it really depends where you want to be based in the city. Other options include the Al Maha Arjaan, Al Rawda Arjaan, and Capital Centre Arjaan, close to ADNEC and Zayed Sports City.
3. Beach Rotana Residences
Hotel Location in Abu Dhabi: In what used to be described as Tourist Club area (now al Zahayih), you are above the Abu Dhabi Mall with a small beach frontage, attached to the Beach Rotana
Why we like it: If it’s access to amenities you need while staying longer term in the city then this is an is an excellent choice. 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments are fully equipped with everything you can think of including a dishwasher and washing machine.
Take advantage of the shared resort facilities including private beach frontage, kids club, playground and aqua play area as well as pools, gym, sauna. You are right on top of the Mall so easy access to the Co-op supermarket and other shops, as well as a few dozen restaurants and bars on your doorstep.
Some rooms also have beautiful waterfront views over to al Maryah Island. This is the best to mix fun & living.
Compare prices on Hotels Combined | Read Trip Advisor Reviews | Book it on Booking.Com
4. Al Seef Resort & Spa by Andalus
Hotel Location in Abu Dhabi: Studio, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom options situated next to Al Seef Mall, Khalifa Park / Ministries area (first exit off the freeway once you are “on island”).
Why we like it: A relative newcomer to the city and quite hidden, but we’ve had our mums give this one a big thumbs up for its convenient location next to Al Seef Mall. I
t’s not one of the biggest Malls but includes a Carrefour Supermarket and all the little everyday essentials that you need. The rooms themselves are top-notch and there are extensive dining options on site, as well as your own self-cater kitchen and washing machine (no dryer).
For the kids, there’s a playground, kids room, outdoor pool & spa. Maybe not with glamorous waterside views like some, but a very spacious and well-equipped living space at quite a reasonable price tag.
Compare prices on Hotels Combined | Read Trip Advisor Reviews | Book it on Booking.Com
5. Bab Al Qasr Residence
Hotel Location in Abu Dhabi: Sitting on Corniche West, this is one of the newer parts of town, opposite Emirates Palace. It’s recognisable by its shiny gold exterior!
Why we like it: A range of studio, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments with full kitchen & washer (no tumble dryer). Breakfast is also included as well as full beach, pool and gym facilities. There is a Waitrose supermarket in neighbouring Etihad Towers or a short taxi to Marina Mall.
Compare prices on Hotels Combined | Read Trip Advisor Reviews | Book it on Booking.Com
6. Staybridge Suites Yas Island
Hotel Location in Abu Dhabi: Part of the hotel’s complex on Yas Island, ideal for those who are based off island or want to be handy to the Airport and Dubai side of town.
Why we like it: It’s nothing over fancy but delivers in terms of family living space. There’s a choice between self-cater breakfast or join the hotel buffet which appeals to many and its great for those who need the convenience of the location. You get access to the pool and Yas Beach included in your stay and use of the free Yas shuttle bus to the mall and entertainment zones of Yas Island. There are restaurants on site and around the Yas hotel plaza, but your nearest big supermarket is at Yas Mall.
Compare prices on Hotels Combined | Read Trip Advisor Reviews | Book it on Booking.Com
7. The Eclipse Boutique Suites
Hotel Location in Abu Dhabi: In the heart of the action for the Corniche; Liwa Street, off Khalifa Street (close to Junction Aiport Road and 3rd)
Why we like it: One of our value picks on this list. It doesn’t have nearly as many fancy amenities but does have good clean, modern apartments with full kitchens, washing machine and great access to local services nearby – ideal if you’d prefer takeaway style catering!
Parking is a downfall (you’ll need to pay daily for valet) and does lack a pool, but you are only a few minutes walk to the beach and easy walking distance to the World Trade Centre Mall.
Compare prices on Hotels Combined | Read Trip Advisor Reviews | Book it on Booking.Com
8. Adagio Abu Dhabi Al Bustan
Hotel Location in Abu Dhabi: Located mid-island between Airport Road & old Muroor Road
Why we like it: Offering very modern studios and apartments in studio, 1, 2 or 3 bedroom options. Fully equipped kitchens come with dishwashers and stovetops, washing machines. All parking and wifi included and use of the rooftop pool, gym and spa facilities.
It does suffer a little bit from being in no man’s land- i.e., unlike others we’ve listed here, it’s not attached to a large shopping mall or other shops. You do have two on-site dining choices but otherwise will find yourself needing a car or taxi to get other supplies – fine if you are here short term but not ideal for longer stays. This is reflected in a lower price tag for the quality you’re getting so still worth your consideration.
Compare prices on Hotels Combined | Read Trip Advisor Reviews | Book it on Booking.Com
9. Grand Millenium Al Wadha
Hotel Location in Abu Dhabi: Located next to Al Wadha Mall, 11th street next to the central bus station.
Why we like it: Deluxe and Executive 2 bed apartments are part of the main hotel building, coming with full kitchens as well as a clothes washer and tumble dryer. Access the rooftop pool with stunning city views and all the hotel’s spa and gym amenities. It is one of the older hotels in town and I’ve heard some complain it’s getting a bit tired, but nonetheless, you cannot beat the convenience and location. Al Wadha at your feet is one of the largest malls in the city so you’ll never be short of supplies. Traffic can be a bit of a pain but always plentiful taxi’s available here.
Compare prices on Hotels Combined | Read Trip Advisor Reviews | Book it on Booking.Com
10. Al Manzel Hotel Apartments
Hotel Location in Abu Dhabi: Situated on busy Electra street, close to the Abu Dhabi Mall.
Why we like it: This is another great value pick for what you get – a fraction of the cost of many others on this list. Not attached to any of the large chains, it is a pure aparthotel offering studio and one bed apartments. Breakfast is offered or you can self-cater in your well-equipped kitchen including dishwasher and clothes washer.
We almost left off as it cannot cover the criteria of fitting a family of 5+, but I think as a budget pick needed to be included. Other on-site offerings include a pool, gym, restaurant and room service. You are at an easy walking distance to shops and restaurants in the centre of the city – parking cannot, however, be guaranteed based on location but taxi’s are plentiful.
Compare prices on Hotels Combined | Read Trip Advisor Reviews | Book it on Booking.Com
Do you have any other favourite short-term hotel apartments in Abu Dhabi that you would like to share? We’d love to hear your ideas to help other travelling and expat families
Further reading on UAE Accommodation
But wait there’s more! As well as our detailed guide on the best areas to stay in Abu Dhabi, we also have these posts and reviews you may find helpful:
- 10 Best Beach Resorts in the UAE for families
- Best Luxury Desert Resort in the UAE (with and without the kids!)
- 5 Staycation destinations that are great for summer too
- Desert and beach camping in the UAE
- Best family accommodation in Dubai (By Little City Trips)
- If you are only starting your journey to Abu Dhabi, you may also be interested in our guide to expat living in Abu Dhabi and how the British schooling system works in Abu Dhabi.
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Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links to accommodation services that may provide a small commission to us if you make a booking, but at no extra cost to you. All opinions are our own and this post is in no way sponsored by any of the places mentioned, though we have received some nights of free accommodation while conducting hotel reviews. All opinions, as always, remain our own. You can see our full disclosure policy here.
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