Nikki Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai

Nikki Beach hotels trade on a certain level of exclusivity — they tell you to “tell only your best friends” about them. And they’re found only in some truly moneyed places, so it’s perfectly on brand to see them popping up in Dubai. But ultramodern, ultra-luxe hotels are a dime a dozen in this shining city on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. So a hotel needs to have a special selling point to set it apart from the pack, and the Nikki Beach Resort & Spa has location on its side.

It’s the only hotel to sit directly on the waterfront of Pearl Jumeirah, a newly created man-made island constructed through land reclamation efforts. Its location provides hard-to-match views of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline. And its island setting provides a break from the mainland — but easy access to the shopping, nightlife, and dining of downtown Dubai when you want it.

It’s a large resort, with 117 rooms and suites and 15 villas (as well as 63 private residences), with a basic room — called the Covet Room — that’s anything but basic. Every room, on the spacious side and decorated in neutrals with blue accents, has a private balcony with a view to the gulf, a customizable minibar, and an entertainment system that allows a guest to play programs on their smartphones or tablets anywhere at the resort. At the other end of the spectrum, the three-bedroom Ultimate Beach Villa boasts a private entrance, private pool, and a staff: a 24-hour host and a chef. Any would-be Kardashian would feel at home here.

Most visitors will instead take advantage of the hotel’s lap pool and bubble pool. Or the tennis courts, water sports, or beachside cabanas. Or the myriad of entertainment and dining options: there are no fewer than five establishments in the resort to eat and drink throughout the day, including a lounge that provides dinner, drinks, and live entertainment. If you’re looking for big-time, big-ticket luxury ostentation, there’s no question you’ll find it here.

Please note:
Nikki Beach is closed for its annual summer break from July 1 through August 31.