From hotels with seven-star bragging rights to architectural genius and private beaches, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes (and budget) in Dubai. Here, you’ll find hotels who’ve put an emphasis on relaxation, ones that boast hundreds of entertainment options including waterparks, and yet more that dazzle with diverse dining options and sumptuous spas. With all this on offer, it can be tempting not to leave the hotel at all, but this glamorous city has you covered for excellent food and nightlife, shopping, beaches and culture. These are our favourite hotels in Dubai.
1. Atlantis The Royal
A fantastic choice for families looking for an upscale option with plenty to keep the little people (and big ones) entertained, Atlantis The Royal has a little something for everyone. Here you’ll find Michelin-star dining at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, chic surroundings at Nobu by the Beach, a waterpark with slides that shoot you through a shark-filled pool, as well as a lazy river, opportunities to dive, snorkel and meet dolphins, oh and rooms overlooking the Arabian Gulf. There’s also a beach, a kids club and Awaken spa. Simply put, there’s enough fun and luxury here that you can have an incredible holiday without leaving the resort.
2. ME Dubai by Melia
The ME Dubai hotel stands as the sole hotel in the Middle East conceived and designed entirely by the late, legendary architect Zaha Hadid. Located in the Opus building in Business Bay, the structure is an architectural marvel characterised by its striking, illuminated central void and fluidity, hallmarks of Hadid's signature neo-futuristic style. Opened in 2020, the hotel features 93 rooms and suites, and 15 private residences. The location places guests at the heart of the city, offering easy access to Downtown Dubai and providing stunning views of the city skyline through the building's dramatic, curving glass façade. The hotel is also home to a number of highly-rated restaurants, including The Maine, ROKA and Revolver.
3. Jumeirah Burj Al Arab
Arguably the most famous hotel in Dubai (and often dubbed the world’s first seven-star hotel despite the ratings system only hitting five stars), the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab lives up to the hype. The accommodations are palatial, particularly the villas, while there’s more than a hint of gold about the building (spoiler alert: this place isn’t subtle). Food is Michelin-star, service is hugely attentive (team-of-personal-butlers attentive), and walking around the hotel feels like you’re swanking about on a movie set. Tick one off the bucket list and enjoy afternoon tea at the Skyview Lounge and revel in the stunning views.
4. Delano Dubai
Both chic and luxurious, the Delano Dubai is located on Bluewaters Island and boasts its very own stretch of private beach. Stretch out on one of the pristine and comfortable loungers to enjoy a day of unspoilt views of the Arabian Gulf as you’re waited on by attentive staff. If you’re not a fan of the sand, relax by the beautiful pool area, designed to reflect the elegance of a Roman bath. This design ethos follows through to the rooms and suites, all bright and airy while remaining utterly luxurious. There’s a boutique vibe and attention to detail at the Delano that takes the service to another level. Five bars and restaurants on site ensure you have a wealth of Mediterranean flavours to choose from when hunger strikes. Guests also have full access to the renowned Banyan Tree Spa.
5. One&Only Za’abeel
The team at One&Only are known for taking luxury to the next level and this vertical resort is no exception. Dominating the skyline with two imposing towers linked by a bridge known as ‘The Link’, the One&Only Za’abeel is a welcome addition to Dubai’s luxury hotel scene. And The Link is so much more than just a bridge – spread over three stories, it hosts incredible restaurants and an infinity pool balanced perfectly on the roof. A feat of architectural ingenuity and dazzling design.
The rooms, designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, boast floor-to-ceiling windows, warm tones of gold and taupe, and marble floors. Enjoy spacious surroundings and utter peace, with exquisite bathrooms. But the major draw here is the dining – six incredible restaurants with an embarrassment of riches when it comes to Michelin stars and spectacular flavours. The spa is the first Middle Eastern Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie, a Swiss clinic that is blending science and wellness to ensure you leave feeling refreshed and fabulous. However, you may find you never want to leave…
6. Bab Al Shams
Desert retreat Bab Al Shams is the perfect place to escape from the city and see some of the dunes that surround the skyscrapers of Dubai. Here you’ll find an Arabic-style brick resort with beautiful wood-carved details and chic bedrooms styled with traditional rugs and furnishings. There’s a central pool with a swim-up bar, buffet-style dining where you can eat under the stars – it’s got a chic glamping vibe and leans into the natural surrounding. From here you can organise dune bashing, horse riding and star gazing, or simply lay by the pool and enjoy the peace. It’s the perfect place for a couples retreat, and the spa in particular is a luxurious way to spend an afternoon. Bliss.
7. Park Hyatt Dubai
This little oasis in Dubai Creek gives the feeling of being totally off grid, despite being just minutes from all the hustle and bustle of the Deira area. The grounds are lush, with plant life and creek views all around, and the food is splendid. The brunch in particular is a highlight, so book in for a day of all-you-can-eat delicacies and drinks (there’s a room dedicated to cheese and another to chocolatey dessert, and it’s difficult to leave it). The facilities here are also outstanding – there’s a golf-course, spa, pool dotted with palm trees, and a number of eateries, plus a kids club if you’re travelling with family. It’s also close to some fantastic souks; take a traditional abra across the creek and check out the spices, clothes and jewels on display.
