Four Seasons Abu Dhabi Opens Its Lobby to an Unexpected Island History

Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island has turned its lobby into a window onto the island's past. Its tenth-anniversary programme, Perspective, Crafted, pairs archival photographs with contemporary views through October 23, 2026, including images the hotel says are being shown publicly for the first time.

What can visitors see before October 23?

The exhibition was developed with the National Library and Archives UAE. A large floral installation fills the lobby and Al Meylas Lounge, giving guests two reasons to pause in a space they might ordinarily pass through on the way to a meeting or dinner.

For a visitor staying on Al Maryah Island this week, the appeal is practical: there is a small cultural stop inside the hotel, with a firm end date. The October 16 announcement lists the exhibition and installation as daily lobby experiences within the October 8-23 programme. It does not list a ticket price or separate exhibition opening hours. Confirm access before making a dedicated trip.

Can guests combine it with afternoon tea?

Anniversary afternoon tea is served at Al Meylas daily from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. The menu includes a tartlet with saffron labneh and Khalas dates, alongside a coffee-and-chocolate creation. Reservations and pricing should be checked with the lounge; the announcement does not say that a room booking includes tea.

That makes the afternoon window the natural choice for travelers who want to combine the display with a seated visit. It is also a useful distinction for families or groups: seeing an installation and booking a table are different arrangements, so establish both rather than assuming one secures the other.

How does the location fit a short Abu Dhabi stay?

The 34-storey hotel has indoor access to The Galleria, making it a convenient base for a shopping afternoon in Abu Dhabi. It also houses The Pearl Spa & Wellness. Those year-round facilities can help shape the rest of a visit after the temporary exhibition ends.

If the archival display is the reason for coming, schedule it first and leave shopping or a spa appointment for later. The exhibition's October 23 finish is the limiting date; the hotel's everyday amenities do not extend that viewing window.

Image: the anniversary floral installation, courtesy of Four Seasons.