The Best Hotels and Resorts in the World: The Gold List 2026 | Condé Nast Traveler

"The St. Regis Saadiyat Island is the grandest of the all-star lineup of luxury resorts that hug the white sands of Abu Dhabi’s most beautiful beach, all winding palm-lined walkways and palatial Mediterranean-inspired architecture. Inside, the heady scent of jasmine collides with the smell of oud wafting from glamorous guests and the freshly brewed Arabic coffee poured from curved golden pots upon check-in. This is a big resort, with 376 guest rooms as well as private residences on its grounds, and yet it manages not to feel overwhelming, with its many quiet corners, private stretch of idyllic beach, and five swimming pools. Plus, the resort has perhaps the best breakfast spread I have ever encountered; it’s served until 1 p.m., allowing guests to enjoy leisurely beachside mornings and take their time sampling several plates (trust me, you’ll want to). From $272. —Sophie Prideaux" - CNT Editors