Over the years, Dubai has garnered a reputation for being the land of superlatives, boasting the world’s tallest tower, deepest dive pool, highest infinity pool, and more. This city has quickly become a playground for the elite, where renowned names come to make a grand statement, especially in the hospitality sector.
In Dubai, the goal is to stand out among the rest. International brands flock here to dazzle visitors with unprecedented elements, whether through grand architecture, daring design, impeccable services, or a combination of all three.
From awe-inspiring skyscrapers to iconic landmarks, opulent spa treatments to record-breaking amenities, these eight Dubai hotels epitomise luxury and are perfect for those looking to experience the city in the most extravagant way possible.
1. One&Only One Za'abeel
Za'abeel Street - Za'abeel 1, Level 25, Dubai, UAE
Za'abeel
This urban escape joins the line-up of futuristic and record-breaking towers across Dubai’s skyline. Home to the world’s longest cantilever, the One&Only One Za’abeel is the city’s latest luxury hotel. Designed by Japanese architects, this ultra-futuristic high rise boasts all glass exteriors, while its opulent interiors are contemporary with a dash of glamour – not mention a collection of four restaurants in the MICHELIN Guide Dubai, two of which have one star each.Here, the elegantly designed rooms and suites are light-filled thanks to their floor-to-ceiling windows – the uninterrupted views of the city are a definite plus – and captivate guests with exceptional services. One rooming option for those willing to spend is their Villa One Penthouses. They are spacious, equipped with a private, black marble infinity lap pool and private cinema. Guests can even request a bespoke dining experience with a private chef within the penthouse.
2. Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai
Jumeirah Beach Road, 1 Jumeirah Street , Dubai, UAE
Jumeirah Beach
Globally synonymous with luxury, the Mandarin Oriental in Dubai does not fall short. Set on the on the pristine shores of Jumeirah 1, this beach resort is as lavish as they come. The lobby welcomes guests with dazzling tree-like structures, modern design in tasteful neutral tones and bright sun light gleaming from outside in.All those who stay will have access to the hotel’s private beach, signature spa, a pool, and of course, MICHELIN-starred dining at Tasca by José Avillez. While its 251 rooms and suites have views of either the sea or the city, the Royal Penthouse is the cherry on top (literally). Spanning 850 square metres, the Royal Penthouse is located on the rooftop of the resort, has a large and spacious terrace with its own plunge pool and has all the fixings perfect for those looking to pamper themselves.
3. Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Jumeira Road, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, UAE
Waterfront
Its not everyday that one gets to stay at a seven-star resort and a historical landmark at once, but this is exactly what you get at the Burj Al Arab. The ultimate destination for experiencing Arabian extravagance, this place is not for guests who are looking for minimal design. The iconic hotel is decked out in golden accents, outstanding mosaics and lavish rooms and facilities, including MICHELIN-starred restaurant, Al Muntaha.
Surely, their 202 rooms and suites are nothing short of excessive regality, but its their Presidential Suite that takes the cake. If you plan on staying here, expect rotating beds, two master bathrooms with full-size jacuzzis, Hermès bathroom kit, a private library and of course, 24/7 butler service, to name a few.
4. The Lana – Dorchester Collection
Marasi Drive Burj Khalifa District, Dubai, UAE
Downtown Dubai
Along the Business Bay canal is this seemingly interlocking tower by the Dorchester Collection. Tastefully designed, the hotel’s minimal yet elegant style exudes a quieter luxury. Its interiors are adorned with soft neutral tones paired with marble stones and impeccable views of the water and Downtown Dubai.In keeping with its style-forward aesthetics, this stay is home to the country’s first and only Dior Spa. It comes fully equipped with Dior skincare products and oils, as well as the French luxury house’s famous prints found across the towels and pillows throughout. The elegant rooms and suites are light and bright thanks to their large windows and inviting colour palette, while its diverse dining options include MICHELIN-selected restaurants, JARA by Martín Berasategui and Riviera by Jean Imbert.
5. Bulgari Resort Dubai
Jumeirah Bay Island, Dubai, UAE
Known for their cutting-edge Italian design, this is a no-expense-spared type of place. The resort brings modern Milanese elegance to the shores of Dubai’s Jumeirah Bay. Offering high-end design elements throughout, the low-rise complex’s interiors highlight a subtle glamour perfectly reflecting Bulgari’s overall style, from its rooms to its dining outlets – including two MICHELIN star, Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, and one MICHELIN star, Hōseki.
The property is made up of a variety of rooms, suites and villas – all of which do not skimp on elegance and incredible vistas. Their Bulgari Villa, however, is the cream of the crop here. Nothing says luxurious like waking up to your own private pool looking on to the sea or enjoying your favourite movie from the comfort of your very own home cinema.
6. Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Ain Road, Dubai, UAE
Escape to the calming desert at this resort located an hour away from Dubai’s bustling city streets. Al Maha is not only a sanctuary for animals, but also all those who visit. The high-end tents, spread across only a fraction of the massive desertscape, offer a sense of remoteness and uninterrupted privacy.Each of the tents have endless views of the desert horizon, with wild animals, such as camels and oryxes, roaming in the foreground. As for the interiors, expect handcrafted Arabic style furnishings and decorated with antiques found from across the Gulf. Their Bedouin Villa is an ideal choice for travellers looking for the ultimate secluded experience. There, they can be catered to without ever needing to leave their room; picture taking quick dip in the villa’s private pool as your 24/7 butler sets up your breakfast on the deck – now that’s luxury!
7. Armani Hotel Dubai
Burj Khalifa, Mohamed Bin Rashid Blvd, Dubai, UAE
A towering name in Italian luxury fashion meets the world’s tallest tower at this Downtown Dubai hotel. The hotel features the signature Armani neutral palette and upscale furnishings across all its spaces, hand curated by Giorgio Armani himself. From the lobby to their one MICHELIN star restaurant, Armani Ristorante, the Italian designer’s iconic style is present in the details.To experience the hotel fully, opt to stay in their Armani Suite or Signature Suite, which occupy the 38th and 39th floors of the Burj Khalifa – incredible city views are a given. The rooms are spacious and elegantly designed, creating a relaxing and inviting space for all those who choose to stay here. The stay is also conveniently located near the Dubai Mall, where some of the world’s biggest brands offer their exclusive pieces.
8. Atlantis The Royal, Dubai
Crescent Road Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah, UAE
A destination in itself, the Atlantis The Royal has become an emblem on the Palm Jumeirah for those looking live large. The massive resort hosts: 795 rooms and suites, 17 food and beverage outlets (including four MICHELIN-selected restaurants, Ariana’s Persian Kitchen, Milos, Jaleo, and La Mar by Gastón Acurio, and one MICHELIN star, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal), 10 retail shops stocked with high-end jewelry and fashion brands and a wellness centre featuring spas, holistic treatments, aesthetic clinics and salons.
The hotel’s spaces are all expertly designed with grandeur in mind. A massive water droplets sculpture and water droplet-like light fixtures welcome guests to the lobby. Different stones, marbles and golden accents underline the extravagant hotel’s common spaces, while calming blues are found across the rooms and suites.
