The hype
Staff are incredible and the beach facilities are top-tier, but the room quality varies wildly depending on renovation status.
Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a full-blown resort experience with a killer beach club without paying St. Regis prices.
Why People Love It
- West Bay Beach Club access (wave pool, lazy river, surf pool)
- Direct underpass access to the Corniche beach
- Sunset drinks at West Bay Lounge
Quick Take: A legendary 1970s Hilton that got a Radisson facelift—the bones are old, but the beach club is world-class.
Reviewed by @HakizimanaMarieAnge7993905: I found the perfect spot for our group dinner at Vertigo. The overwater deck feels like a Mediterranean escape, and the happy hour deals made the bill surprisingly light. If you're in Abu Dhabi, you have to catch the sunset here—it’s magical.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Multiple reports of AC units smelling like mold and housekeeping missing deep-clean details like 'dried toilet poop' in one horror story.
- You have kids who need a wave pool and lazy river to survive the heat
- You prioritize beach access over room luxury
- You want a resort vibe within walking distance of the city center
Cleanliness & Maintenance
6.8
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Some guests report spotless rooms, others find 'missed spots' and dust.
- Bathroom hygiene: Grout in older bathrooms can be discolored; reports of 'dried poop' in one severe case.
- Maintenance: HVAC systems are the weak point—prone to rattling and musty smells.
- Linens & towels: Generally clean but can feel worn/thin in standard rooms.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh; hallways and older rooms often have a lingering damp/musty odor.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Corniche Road traffic (cruising supercars)
- Loud/rattling AC units
- Hallway noise due to thin doors
Before you book
Good to know
- Beach access is via an air-conditioned underpass; do not try to cross the Corniche highway.
- Tourism fee of AED 15 per bedroom per night is payable at check-out.
- West Bay Beach Club is open to the public, so it gets crowded on weekends.
What to pack
- Rash guards for the surf pool
- Water shoes (the wave pool floor can be rough)
- Activated charcoal bags (if you're sensitive to musty hotel smells)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Renovated Superior Room (Sea View) - ensures you get the new interior
- Executive Suite - includes lounge access and usually better maintained
Rooms to avoid
- Classic Rooms (often unrenovated, tired carpet)
- Low floors facing the city (traffic noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a 'Newly Renovated' Superior Room on a high floor facing the sea. Please ensure the room does not have a connecting door to minimize noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the beach private?
Yes, the West Bay Beach Club is private for guests and members, accessible via a tunnel.
Is the Zip Line still open?
No, the zip line at the adventure park closed in July 2025.
Do all rooms have balconies?
No, most standard rooms do NOT have balconies; they have large windows.
Is breakfast included?
Not in the base rate. It costs ~AED 100 per person if purchased separately.
Is there a resort fee?
No specific 'resort fee', but there is a mandatory AED 15/night tourism fee.
Can I walk to Marina Mall?
Technically yes (about 20 mins), but in the heat, it's better to take a cheap taxi.
Insider Tips
- ✨
West Bay Lounge has a 'Buy 1 Get 1' Happy Hour daily from 5pm-8pm.
- ✨
The 'Surf Pool' is free for guests but requires a waiver; sign it at check-in to save time.
- ✨
Avoid the buffet for dinner; the nearby Khalidiya neighborhood has far better local food for half the price.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Sea View' is partially blocked by the new construction projects on the breakwater.
💡The elevators are slow and can take forever during breakfast rush.
💡You can hear the 'hum' of the beach club music in sea-facing rooms until late evening.
💡The 'Adventure Park' is more for kids; adults will find the ropes course small.
💡Room service prices are inflated; ordering delivery (Talabat) to the lobby is common and accepted.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche is located and what's nearby.