Emirates Palace, Luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Emirates Palace is a five-star hotel in Abu Dhabi designed by WATG Architects, with a sand-coloured facade, a central patterned dome and 114 smaller domes. Its two wings and central block hold 390 residences, including 92 suites, and the interiors are finished in gold and marble. A 1.3 km beach and a marina lie in front of the building.
Construction began in late 2001 and took just over three years until the property opened in early 2005. The site was intended to be a state guesthouse but was converted into a hotel shortly after completion.
The Arabic name, Qasr Al Emarat, means Palace of the Emirates. The building was designed by WATG Architects with Islamic elements: symmetry, geometric patterns and a hierarchy of domes, with a central patterned dome and 114 smaller ones. The exterior colour was chosen to match Arabian Desert sand.
The complex sits west of the city center along the Corniche and is reached via the main coastal road. Visitors can use the public beach section or walk through the courtyard if they are on site.
The flooring in some areas is decorated with real gold leaf applied directly by craftsmen onto the surfaces. The kitchen occasionally prepares dishes with edible gold that is sprinkled on coffee and desserts.
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