Rethinking All-Inclusive: My Weekend at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island

For years, the all-inclusive model has been associated with convenience at the expense of exclusivity—efficient, but rarely aligned with true luxury. My recent weekend at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island challenged that perception entirely, offering a compelling example of how this format can be elevated into a premium, experience-driven product.

Marina Slobodyanik

From the moment you arrive, what stands out is the absence of anything that feels transactional. There are no visible boundaries between what is included and what is not. Everything is delivered seamlessly, creating a sense of continuity rather than a structured system. In this context, all-inclusive becomes less about budgeting and more about lifestyle—where comfort is defined by effortlessness and freedom from decision-making.

One of the most striking departures from the traditional model is the culinary experience. Instead of volume-driven buffets, the resort focuses on à la carte dining, refined presentation, and consistency in service. There is no sense of overcrowding or compromise. Dining feels intentional, curated, and aligned with the expectations of a global luxury audience. It becomes an integral part of the overall experience rather than a functional component of the package.

Marina Slobodyanik

Yet the most unexpected highlight of my stay was the beach. I did not anticipate finding this level of natural beauty in Abu Dhabi. The sand is exceptionally white and soft—remarkably similar to what one might expect in the Maldives—while the water is calm, clear, and expansive. There is a sense of openness and tranquility that feels almost removed from the region’s typical coastal landscape.

The beach is not just an amenity; it defines the rhythm of the stay. Mornings begin with quiet walks along the shoreline, followed by unhurried breakfasts, time by the pool, and long stretches without structure. At some point, you realize that the real luxury lies in not having to plan anything at all.

Despite operating within an all-inclusive framework, the resort avoids the visual and operational cues of mass tourism. The space is designed to preserve privacy, with guest flow managed in a way that prevents overcrowding. This balance—between scale and intimacy—is what ultimately sets the experience apart.

From an industry perspective, this is indicative of a broader shift. All-inclusive is no longer a separate category; it is evolving into a premium delivery model. As global travelers increasingly value time, simplicity, and personalization, the boundaries between traditional luxury hospitality and all-inclusive offerings are becoming less defined.

My weekend at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island was not just a getaway, but a reflection of how luxury itself is changing. Where it was once defined by excess, it is now increasingly about precision—about creating an environment where everything is thoughtfully considered, and nothing feels unnecessary.