There’s Never Been A Better Time To Visit Dubai: And You’ll Want To Stay In One Of These 9 Hotels…
‘Ah, but what about when the oil runs out?’ finger-wags the dining table diplomat, and the answer is, simply, Dubai. Rather than sitting on an ever-diminishing supply of black gold, the emirate has invested wisely, making their little patch of sand an international transportation hub, a financial centre, a tourist destination and a playground for the rich and famous. It’s a place where Rolls Royces grow on trees and the streets are paved with Rolex.
And it’s one mighty place to stay. Luxury hotels abound, and whether you’re looking for somewhere to take the family, planning a romantic getaway for two or scoping out somewhere for a business meeting, the hotels of Dubai are, without doubt, some of the best in the world.
A spot in the Guinness World Record Book as the world’s tallest building…
Armani Hotel Dubai
I know what you’re thinking – ‘Armani makes shiny suits for footballers’, and yes, that’s entirely true. But they also measure up smartly when it comes to hotels. And when it comes to measuring up, Burj Khalifa, home of the Armani Hotel Dubai, certainly does at 2,722ft and a spot in the Guinness World Record Book as the world’s tallest building.
So it’s a tiny bit disappointing that the hotel occupies only the first eight floors of this megalithic structure but any tears will quickly dry as you check into your room, with the dark and sumptuous interiors clearly belting their Italian designer heritage.
What’s more, pay a little extra and check into a suite and you’ll get a view like no other as they’re located on floors 38 and 39!
Where: Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai
Website:www.armanihoteldubai.com
Raffles, The Palm
One of the most iconic and opulent hotels in Dubai (and arguably, the world) is none other than Raffles on Palm Jumeirah. One look at the expansive grounds and it’s apparent that no expense was spared to realise this luxurious vision.
From sumptuous interiors to market-leading hospitality options, this is one hotel you can easily arrive at and never want to leave (other than for a dip in the pool or ocean).
Where: West crescent, palm jumeirah, Dubai
Website: www.raffles.com
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
Obviously you know where you stand with Mandarin Oriental, the luxury group needs little introduction, but that doesn’t make Mandarin Oriental Jumeira any less dazzling. The closest beachfront resort to downtown Dubai, the hotel’s tiered balconies and modern designs are sleek and chic, yet timeless.
Plus, the six restaurants include Tasca by Michelin-starred Portuguese chef Jose Avillez.
Where: Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai
Website:www.mandarinoriental.com
Conrad Dubai
Business and pleasure meet, for once, at Conrad Dubai. Located right in the financial district of town, the hotel is an ideal staging post for work meetings, given that it’s literally opposite the World Trade Centre. The 54-storey hotel is great for enjoyment, too. Check out the pool deck, which is incredible and at odds with the sometimes serious demeanour of the hotel. For dining options, you have plenty to choose from including Ballaró for Sicilian cuisine, Bliss 6 for poolside cocktails, Kimpo for South Korean dishes, and Anasa for traditional Greek food.
Where: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
Website:www.conradhotels.hilton.com
Shangri-La Hotel Dubai
Shangri-La Hotel Dubai lives up to every high expectation we have of the group. Literally high, the hotel stretches 42 stories and boasts some of the best views of the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Of course, as Londoners, we’re used to views like this from Shangri-La Hotel London The Shard, but nevertheless, it doesn’t fail to take our breath away. The rooftop pool (albeit on the fourth floor) is luxurious and turns into a popular nightspot after dark, with international DJs ensuring that the party continues well into the small hours.
Literally high, the hotel stretches 42 stories and boasts some of the best views of the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
Where: Sheikh Zayed Road (Near Financial Metro Station), Dubai
Website:www.shangri-la.com
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
There aren’t many hotels that are truly iconic at a glance. Maybe The Ritz or Savoy in London, Singapore’s Raffles or Marina Bay hotels, or The Taj in Bombay, but among their ranks Burj Al Arab Jumeirah sits foremost.
We’ve all seen it in many-a-photo and it never fails to fascinate and impress. And it’s as opulent as you’d imagine, in-your-face dripping with luxury, across the rooms, lobbies and public spaces; they’ve even got a fleet of Rolls Royce Phantoms to ferry guests around (partly a necessity given the hotel’s nine miles from the downtown drag).
Anyone racking up their stays in the world’s most iconic hotels, has to tick this one off their list.
Where: Jumeirah Street, Dubai
Website:www.jumeirah.com
They’ve even got a fleet of Rolls Royce Phantoms to ferry guests around.
Where: Jumeirah Bay Island, Dubai
Website:www.bulgarihotels.com
The Bulgari Resort & Residences Dubai
I’m not sure about you but one of the most frustrating things about going on holiday is finding somewhere to park the damn super-yacht. Well not at The Bulgari Resort & Residences Dubai. The private island sits just off the Dubai coastline and brings a slice of the Mediterranean to the Persian Gulf. Designed to be as exquisite as a piece of Bulgari’s jewellery, the resort is as smart as you’d hope and expect, with a pool lined in real gold (only in Dubai, right?), 101 rooms and a restaurant from three-Michelin-star-er Niko Romito. Pop your yacht in at the Bulgari Marina and Yacht Club, or for the landlubbers connect from the mainland to the man-made island via the bridge.
Al Maha Resort And Spa
Wait, aren’t we meant to be in the desert? While most of Dubai is attempting to rapidly urbanise, the natural landscape of Dubai really shines at Al Maha Resort And Spa. Romantic and eco-friendly, the resort is modelled on a desert fortress and brings old-world Dubai to life, albeit in a seriously luxurious and touristy way. Guests sleep in stand-alone tents (don’t worry, there’s nothing DofE about this place) and during the day set out on a camel trek or watch out for nature, or just take a dip in your personal plunge pool…
Romantic and eco-friendly, the resort is modelled on a desert fortress.
Where: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai
Website:www.marriott.com
Where: The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence – DubaI
Website: luxejbr.com
Five Luxe JBR
The Five Luxe JBR could stand alone without its world-renowned cocktail bar and transporting beach scene, but they are welcome additions to this luxurious resort. You and your friends can live it up at the Five Luxe’s newest attraction— a massive 3D entertainment screen. Not only is it innovative and unique, but it’s also 100% powered by the Sun— sustainability and a show? We’re sold.
But if that wasn’t enough for you, try a Mediterranean Treasure, one of the signature cocktails at Paradiso— recognised as the best cocktail bar in Dubai. With its Alice in Wonderland-themed interior, and magical cocktails, you’ll feel like you’re having a drink with The Hatter.
Why just go to Dubai when you could pit stop in Wonderland?
