Danat Resort Jebal Dhanna

This is a lonely gem in Abu Dhabi’s far west. The beach is lovely, runs for 800m and may be the best private plot of sand in the UAE. Inside, the hotel is just the right side of garish; with bright, colourful designs that are a welcome sight after a long drive through drab desert. It has the best restaurant for a few hundred kilometers, a slightly cheesy nightclub, decent breakfast buffet and pleasant pool (with swim-up bar). Rooms are large and comfortable and a masseuse and water sports are available. The hotel occasionally runs boat trips to Sir Bani Yas, but availability, prices and information can vary wildly.