Aloft Abu Dhabi

This 408-room hotel shares its home with the city’s exhibition centre, which is a handy 12 miles from the airport. Other attractions including Ferrari World, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Eastern Mangroves promenade are no more than a 15- to 20-minute drive away.

Like many Aloft branded hotels, this 12-storey property is colourful and vibrantly decorated, which fits with its fun and funky casual approach. There is a games area in the lobby, bean bags scattered around, and a number of lounge areas, which all add to the relaxed, comfortable vibe.

Initial interactions with service staff were disappointing, although they were attentive. Annoyingly, information provided regarding the hotel’s dining options was not accurate and resulted in confusion, with the outlet suggested not offering what had been communicated. Special mention goes to the security staff, who were pleasant and helpful at all times. In terms of facilities, holidaymakers will be impressed by the pool area, 24-hour gym and rooftop bar, while those on business are well catered for too, with an accessible business nook and meeting room facilities. It’s worth noting there is no spa and the hotel doesn’t offer child-minding.

The two standard room categories – Aloft and Splash – differ only by way of the view. I was put in a Savvy Plus Room, bigger than the standard and offering an additional living area, on the ninth floor. This floor is non-smoking, but the room smelled smoky and musty upon entry so I ask to be moved. The new room, while obviously sprayed with freshener, proved a cleaner option. The lack of a bathroom light switch in the immediate vicinity was an annoyance, but that aside the room was functional and comfortable.

From on-the-go snacks to buffets, there is a variety of dining options here. All-day restaurant Dine serves mostly international food and is great for those who like all-you-can-eat. Buffets are available for breakfast, lunch and dinner for between 99 and 155 Emirati Dirhams (£20-31). Mai Café is the casual poolside eatery with a diverse menu that extends from Caprese salad (48 Emirati Dirhams [£9.50]), to mains including salmon (75 Emirati Dirhams [£15]) and lamb (108 Emirati Dirhams [£22]).

If you’re out to impress a friend or colleague, Relax@12 and Twelve are the go-to options. While focussed mainly on sushi, the menu also includes mini burger and steak options, with prices ranging from 45 Emirati Dirhams (£9) to 95 Emirati Dirhams (£19). Relax@12 is sundowner central thanks to its views of the city. A mojito here will cost you 48 Emirati Dirhams (£9). There’s also a lobby-level bar and lounge area.

Double rooms from 300 Emirati Dirhams (£60) in low season; and from 420 Emirati Dirhams (£85) in high. Free Wi-Fi and parking.

There are eight rooms for guests with reduced mobility within the hotel.

Cots are available upon request.