Though its name is Erth and it’s decorated with natural woods and organic textures, this 75-hectare city resort appears anything but earthbound. The centrepiece hotel is one of Abu Dhabi’s true architectural marvels, an otherworldly structure that looks equal parts stingray and spaceship when seen from above.

In fact, erth means “legacy” in Arabic, a nod to the estate’s impressive history. The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father, envisaged this as a recreational space for the UAE Armed Forces, as well as a gift to his sons who had served. The Armed Forces Officers Club and Hotel (AFOCH) was eventually founded in 1997, opening to the public six years later and becoming popular with families across the city. Refurbished and reopened as Erth in 2022, the well-disciplined staff nod to AFOCH’s regimented origins while internal Japanese-style rock gardens maintain a peaceful atmosphere. The buffet breakfast on the Al Rimal restaurant terrace – all za’atar cruffins and fresh smoothies – is the best in the city.
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Other highlights from Destination Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Enter a world of discoveries.

Joud Coffee

Drink to a refined concept.

Bait Al Oud

Tune in to musical tradition.

teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi

Immerse yourself in a world of the senses.

Liwa

Hunt for a sign in the desert.

Fount

Meet a top design family.

Abrahamic Family House

Find faith in the power of architecture.

Abu Dhabi bakeries

Taste a world of flavours.

Late-century modernism

Observe a striking local style.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Celebrate a masterpiece of design.

Amar Luxury Desert Lodge

Unplug at a green oasis in the dunes.