Picolo recommends · Hotel in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri
Wooden abra boats glide past on the Khor Al Maqta canal, and across the water the Grand Mosque rises above the hotel's own small souk.
An abra, the low wooden boat used for short crossings in the Gulf, pulls up at the hotel jetty. The hotel faces the Khor Al Maqta waterway, and the boats take guests up and down it.
The hotel has built its own souk, a covered market lane with shops and restaurants. From the sand on the canal you look over to the Grand Mosque, which turns golden at dusk. Dinner rarely needs a taxi.
Picolo’s verdict
Why we chose Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri
This is our value choice among Abu Dhabi's luxury hotels. Service is polished, the evenings by the water are easy, and you pay less than at the big beach names on Saadiyat.
It is a large hotel, so expect busy breakfasts in high season. The beach is on the canal, which is calm and pleasant, but it is not the open sea.
What you get
- Abra boats along the canal
- Restaurants in the hotel's own souk
- Beach on the canal
- Pools by the water
- Views towards the Grand Mosque
A day at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri
- Morning
- A swim before breakfast while the canal is still glassy.
- Midday
- An abra ride along the water.
- Afternoon
- A visit to the Grand Mosque, dressed for it and before the late crowds.
- Evening
- Dinner in the souk with the mosque lit up across the canal.
Location
Khor Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Open in MapsQuestions about Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri
What is an abra at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri?
An abra is a traditional wooden boat. At this hotel they carry guests along the Khor Al Maqta canal. It is a calm, slow way to see the waterfront.
Does Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri have a sea beach?
No. The beach lies on the calm canal, facing the mosque. For open sea, Saadiyat Island is a taxi ride away.
Is Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri good value?
For a luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi, yes. It usually costs less than the Saadiyat resorts while offering strong service and a waterfront setting.
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Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles
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