Dubai isn’t short on remarkable hotels, but where you stay can completely shape your experience of the city. Each neighborhood has its own rhythm — from the futuristic towers of Downtown to the calming Creekside and ocean-framed fronds of The Palm. So, whether you’re after beachfront glamour, creative hubs or simply the most convenient base for getting around, this guide highlights some of the city’s most distinctive resorts complete with MICHELIN Guide Hotel Inspector tips along the way.
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Palm Jumeirah
The Palm Jumeirah is Dubai’s most iconic palm-shaped island, home to sweeping sea views, beachside activities and some of the most extravagant hotels in the region.Atlantis The Royal, Dubai
Perhaps the most talked-about address on the Palm right now, Atlantis The Royal is unapologetically grand. Its shimmering architecture is packed with celebrity chef restaurants, sky-high infinity pools and larger-than-life luxury. From the lobby to the hotel suites, prepare to be wowed at every turn.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Leave your toiletries at home — even the toothbrushes and combs are gold-plated here.
One&Only The Palm
Tucked away at the western tip, One&Only The Palm feels like a secret garden escape from the nearby chic party scene. Think lush landscaping, attentive service and magical dining experiences. Try booking a table at 101 Dining Lounge and Marina, for an overwater evening where the floors project moving wave displays to mimic the ocean.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Upon arrival, take a golf cart tour of the resort and stop by the private jetty. From there, you can hop on a boat that takes you across the water to One&Only Royal Mirage in Dubai Marina.
The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm
Unmatched for its panoramic views, St. Regis offers easy access to both The Palm and mainland Dubai. Planning to visit the famous Aura Skypool in the same tower? Reserve ahead and get there early if you want a crowd-free photo.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Head to the 52nd floor for an incredible 360-degree panorama of Palm Jumeirah — arguably one of the best views in Dubai.
Downtown Dubai
Downtown is Dubai’s urban heart with the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and the city’s most recognizable skyline on your doorstep.Sofitel Dubai Downtown
A stone's throw away from Dubai Mall (which is accessible via an air-conditioned walkway), Sofitel Dubai Downtown sits just across from the Burj Khalifa, yet proves to be a more affordable option for most. Complete with a large rooftop infinity pool and contemporary design throughout, it’s a prime location for exploring Dubai’s tourist spots.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: The hotel is directly connected to Burj Khalifa Metro Station and Dubai Mall via an air-conditioned skywalk — perfect to avoid the heat and walk comfortably from the hotel to the mall or the metro.
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Kempinski Central Avenue Dubai
Even though it’s directly connected to the busy and bustling Dubai Mall, Kempinski Central Avenue is a quiet and elegant space with more than 1,200 shops and entertainment options at your doorstep. Step out from the floor-to-ceiling windows onto a sky-high balcony revealing views of its famous neighbor, the Burj Khalifa. Alternatively, head to the luxury state-of-the-art spa to be pampered in front of the same dazzling vistas.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Look for the “secret indoor door” that connects you directly to the mall — almost through a boutique. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff to guide you, as it’s a bit hidden.
Address Dubai Mall
Also situated in Dubai Downtown stands the sophisticated Address Dubai Mall. Located on the opposite side of the mall, this 65-story skyscraper is a refined and modern choice with seamless mall access via an indoor bridge. Don’t skip dinner at Poli, the Greek restaurant with an amazing outdoor terrace view over the glittering Downtown skyline.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Stop by the lobby lounge during the day for a quiet coffee break, away from the mall crowds.
Armani Hotel Dubai
Not everyone can call the Burj Khalifa home, but the exclusive Armani Hotel Dubai can. Nestled in the heart of the world’s tallest building, this stay is all about tailored, sleek design, overseen by Giorgio Armani himself. Choose from nine restaurants and lounges and dine amongst Dubai locals and international travelers alike for an impressive and unforgettable stay.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Reserve MICHELIN-selected At.mosphere on the 122nd floor for the experience of dining above the clouds — the elevator ride alone is worth it.
Jumeirah Beach
Where soft sands meet luxury living, this neighborhood combines beachfront leisure with world class dining.Bvlgari Resort Dubai
Even the most discerning traveler will be won over by this serene, low-slung retreat on a man-made island in Jumeirah Bay. Bvlgari Resort Dubai fuses Milanese design with no-expense-spared luxury. Expect spacious balconies that gaze either straight out to sea or back towards Dubai’s skyline, and lots of Venetian marble.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Stop by the Cioccolato boutique — the pastries are almost identical to the ones in Rome.
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
Where city-life drifts into the sea, Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah offers the perfect balance of understated luxury and oceanfront zen. Guests can sink into the serenity of its private beach, choose from five refreshing outdoor pools or indulge in an outstanding culinary line-up. For a chic take on Dubai’s brunch tradition, reserve a table at the MICHELIN-Starred Tasca by José Avillez.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Don’t miss MICHELIN-Selected Netsu, the Japanese Warayaki-style grill — one of the best dining experiences in Dubai. And take your Instagram photo at the entrance, especially in the red-lit dragon hallway.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
It’s one thing to see and marvel at the world’s only seven-star hotel, but quite another to stay in one of its 202 suites. The sail-shaped icon offers pure opulence and once-in-a-lifetime indulgence to guests. How does your very own butler with the Royal and Presidential suites sound?MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: This one is quite a budget, so if you can’t stay overnight, you can book a guided tour of the hotel for around €60. It includes a visit to the Royal Suite and some common areas. You can even try the Gold Cappuccino (one of the hotel’s signature treats) with some tour tickets.
JBR & Dubai Marina
A lively mix of beach clubs, restaurants and nightlife make JBR and Dubai Marina the obvious waterfront choice for fun-seekers.Address Beach Resort
Home to the world’s highest rooftop infinity pool located on the 77th floor (at 293.9 meters above ground), Address Beach Resort boasts beautiful views of the Bluewaters Island. Enjoy daily watersports, a variety of quality restaurants and immediate beach access with year-round sunshine.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Don’t miss swimming in the rooftop pool at sunset. You can dine poolside and relax on semi-submerged sunbeds, perfect for cooling off while enjoying your meal.
FIVE LUXE JBR
This party-centric younger sibling of FIVE Palm Jumeirah, lives up to its family ties with Ibiza’s iconic Pacha nightclub, drawing top DJs and musicians to its prime Marina Beach location. After the festivities, guests can retreat to pastel-hued rooms (some with private plunge pools, hot tubs and saunas) or continue the party with in-room DJ booths and dance floors. Balance the high-energy vibes with a calming visit to the ReFIVE Spa for some well-deserved downtime.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Choose this location over FIVE Palm if you want the newer FIVE experience. It opened in 2024.
Banyan Tree Dubai at Bluewaters
Combining beach tranquility with close access to JBR’s high energy, Banyan Tree Dubai is a welcome pause from the city’s buzz, ready to press play again whenever you’re ready. Formerly Caesars Palace Dubai, the seafront resort offers Asian and French cuisine and a wellness spa with innovative treatments. Think sound healing, meditation and cold bath therapies.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: This is a great option if you’re looking for a quieter retreat but still want to stay close to the vibrancy of JBR.
Deira & Dubai Creek Harbour
Where Dubai’s past meets its present, Deira and Dubai Creek Harbour charm visitors with calm Creekside views and lively market streets.Park Hyatt Dubai
Travelling with small children? Reserve one of Park Hyatt Dubai’s ground floor rooms attached to the Twiggy Family pool for direct access between the water and your room. Looking for a party? Head to the other side of the resort for the all-day beach club. Every comfort is covered here with a full-service spa, modern rooms and attentive staff.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: If you’re a golf lover, enjoy a game at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, located just next door and offering unique waterfront views.
Business Bay
A cosmopolitan hub of high-rise buildings, rooftop restaurants and easy access to the city’s key attractions.ME Dubai by Meliá
Designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid, ME Dubai is a curvaceous, ultra-modern masterpiece. Design enthusiasts will appreciate the fluid stone-like bathrooms, futuristic furniture and striking H-shaped building. Enjoy a vast spa and fitness center, rooftop pool and upscale dining including London’s Roka.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Take time to explore the corridors and common areas — there are rotating art installations throughout the year.
The St. Regis Downtown Dubai
A stylish retreat in the heart of the city, just minutes from Dubai Mall, Dubai Opera and the Dubai Water Canal. Light-filled, spacious rooms offer a peaceful base, while the restaurants showcase deliciously modern Japanese and Italian cuisine. Guests can enjoy signature experiences — from afternoon tea and evening champagne to spa rituals ranging from Moroccan hammams to 24-karat-gold facials — making every stay unmistakably “St. Regis”.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Take full advantage of the St. Regis Butler Service, available 24/7 for a highly personalized stay.
The Lana – Dorchester Collection
This super-chic hotel — recognized by its pair of interlocking towers — is the first Dorchester hotel in the region and is just as opulent and elegant as its London and Los Angeles counterparts. Clean lines and traditional interior touches make every corner just as Instagrammable as the next.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Treat yourself at the Dior Spa — one of the most exclusive wellness experiences in the city.
Al Jaddaf
A quieter, riverside area with a mix of cultural spaces, marinas and relaxed luxury.Palazzo Versace Dubai
Reminiscent of a 16th-century Italian palace, Palazzo Versace Dubai is an ode to the ultimate high-life. One would be right to expect Roman columns, haute-couture interiors and suites adorned with bespoke Versace pastel silks. Nine restaurants and bars continue the golden touch, with tempting Italian menus and outdoor terraces amongst three swimming pools overlooking lush gardens and the Dubai Creek.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: For a romantic evening, book a table at Vanitas, the hotel’s fine Italian restaurant with candle-lit tables and riverside views.
Za’abeel
An emerging luxury enclave just minutes from Downtown, known for striking architecture and exclusive new openings.One&Only One Za’abeel
Dubai’s ever-evolving skyline has yet again been enhanced by One&Only One Za’abeel’s standout connecting towers joined by a dramatic horizontal structure called The Link (which is also home to the longest infinity pool in the UAE). Inside proves to be just as exciting as guests can enjoy a sleek three-story spa, glamorous cocktail bars, sweeping city views and custom bath products.MICHELIN Guide Inspector Tip: Head to MICHELIN-Selected StreetXO for an elevated street-food experience.
