Wondering about the best accommodation option in Dubai for your next trip? We've done the research for you.
Dubai is a true city of extremes, the hub of all things luxury and excessive; but also hidden historic districts that take you back to mid-19th century Arabia.
The super-luxury Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa (the world's tallest since 2009) are among the best hotels in the world. Enjoy the best of fine dining (bottomless brunch is a popular pastime in the UAE); relax on one of the many private beaches, party on some of the world's most exciting islands and shop in the world's largest shopping mall.
You may struggle to find authentic local culture in Dubai; but some cultural activities include local markets, the must-see desert safari and several museums.
There are plenty of day trips to take in the UAE, such as the neighbouring capital Abu Dhabi or the mountainous Al Ain region.
How much does accommodation cost in Dubai?
While it's true that Dubai isn't exactly cheap, especially when it comes to nightlife, spas, fine dining and all that other fine stuff; your opinion of its price actually depends on a few things such as:
A.) Where you compare it
Dubai is of course expensive if you compare it to Yerevan or Tbilisi, but is it more expensive than Milan or Florence or Stockholm or Ibiza? Not necessarily. Hotels in Dubai are much cheaper than hotels in Stockholm or Milan in the same category, and better value for money.
Accommodation in Dubai is not expensive and there are many budget options available. In fact, there are flats with kitchenettes and pool access available for a price per night that you might pay for hostels in European cities.
B.) Where in Dubai will you spend your money?
Which part of Dubai are you staying in? You'll end up paying a lot more in a posh area and less than half as much in a residential area or in the older parts of the city.
Unsurprisingly, you'll find that cheap flats and hotels in Dubai in areas like Old Dubai and Dubai Marina are cheaper than in Palm Jumeirah.
C.) The time of year you visit Dubai
You may be aware that summer temperatures in Dubai can be ridiculously high. The summer months are therefore low season, which means that hotel rates are much cheaper.
The winter months of November to February are high season for tourists and hotels can be expensive.
Where is the best accommodation in Dubai?
To help you choose the best place to stay in Dubai that suits you, I've divided this guide into different sections to guide you through the different neighbourhoods, options for different preferences and budgets.
Best accommodation in Dubai by neighbourhood
The first step in deciding on the best area to stay in Dubai is to find out a little more about the different neighbourhoods and whether or not they would work for you.
It's important to remember that Dubai isn't the kind of city where you only get around on foot. It's not like European cities with a single city centre.
Instead, there are different neighbourhoods and each one has a bunch ofactivities to do and places to visit in Dubai as well as restaurants, cafes and bars, etc.
Some areas in particular have more tourist attractions, nightlife and entertainment than others, which are more residential.
So, whichever part of the city you're in, you'll probably need to take the metro, a taxi or Uber to visit a few other areas, unless you're only visiting for a couple of days, in which case you should choose a neighbourhood to stay in that's close to the sights and attractions that interest you most.
When considering the best areas to stay in Dubai, take all of this into account.
Old Dubai
Bur Dubai, Mankhool, Karama, Deira, Satwa and Jumeirah
Old Dubai, as you've probably guessed, refers to the oldest parts of the city; neighbourhoods such as Bur Dubai, Mankhool, Karama, Deira and Satwa.
In these neighbourhoods, you'll still find shops selling clothes, shoes, electronics and souvenirs (not in shopping centres, but as genuine stand-alone shops with lower prices).
As well as tailor shops (where you can get bespoke suits for a bargain); cobblers, old-school men's hairdressers, traditional bakeries and butchers, street food and casual restaurants.
This is also where you'll find the oldest part of Dubai. Which is now the heritage district of Bastakiya. Once home to wealthy merchant families, with traditional-style buildings made of coral and mud, with barjeel wind towers.
Today, these buildings house museums, artists' studios and workshops, cultural centres and heritage-style guesthouses.
Although older than other parts of the city, these areas are not run-down or old-fashioned or anything like that. Dubai is very well maintained throughout and you'll find the same level of infrastructure, cleanliness and standards here as in new Dubai.
Sites around Old Dubai
Major sights and attractions around Old Dubai include the heritage district of Bastakiya in Al Fahidi, the shopping district by Al Seef Creek and the Textile Souk.
Just an abra boat ride across Deira Creek, you'll find the Gold Souk, the Spice Souk and other souks. The Dubai Frame is not too far away either. The Dubai Mall is 15 to 25 minutes away by metro, depending on where you are in old Dubai. The Sea, with its beach, restaurants and entertainment venues, is a short taxi ride away.
If you decide to stay in Jumeirah, you may be within walking distance of the beach.
Where to stay in Old Dubai
Best budget hotels in Old Dubai
Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al Seef (Bur Dubai)
The Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al Seef is ideally located in the lively Al Seef area, close to the creek. It is a new hotel of the famous Jumeirah Group. So you can expect top quality.
There's a pool and restaurant on site, but there are tons of dining options just outside all along Al Seef Creek.
All of Dubai's old tourist attractions are within walking distance, as is the nearest metro station. Suitable for singles, families and couples.
City Seasons Towers Hotel Bur Dubai (Bur Dubai)
The City Seasons Towers Hotel Bur Dubai offers spacious rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and a gym. The hotel is also ideal for Indian tourists on a budget.
There are several Indian restaurants in the area, all within walking distance. The Indian district of Meena Bazaar and Bur Dubai are just a metro ride away (1-2 stops) and the metro station is just outside.
The BurJuman shopping centre is next door. It is suitable for families, couples and single women.
Citymax Hotel Bur Dubai
At Citymax Hotel Bur Dubai you can stay in a private room (double or twin bathroom) with fridge and tea and coffee making facilities; access to a swimming pool and the hotel's restaurants and sports bar.
Tons of supermarkets and restaurants around. Also close to Indian quarters. Good bus and metro links.
J5 RIMAL Hotel Apartements (Deira)
For a budget hotel, the J5 RIMAL Hotel Apartments in Deira offers excellent value for money. There is a swimming pool, gym, sauna and jacuzzi and rooms are equipped with a kitchenette, lounge and tea and coffee making facilities.
The nearest metro station is within walking distance. Suitable for families and couples.
Novotel Deira City Centre (Deira)
Just a stone's throw from Deira city centre, Novotel Deira City Centre offers luxurious accommodation, a heated swimming pool, tennis courts and a children's pool. There is an on-site restaurant and lounge, and many other options in the area. You can easily walk to the Deira City Center metro station. Suitable for families, couples and singles.
Ibis Styles Dubai Jumeirah (Jumeirah)
If you like the idea of staying in the residential area of Jumeirah and don't mind having a metro station nearby, then the Ibis Styles Dubai Jumeira is a good budget hotel in Dubai that offers rooms with modern facilities and tea/coffee maker, as well as a swimming pool and on-site restaurant.
Best mid-range accommodation in Old Dubai
BurJuman Arjaan By Rotana (Mankhool)
BurJuman Arjaan By Rotana offers flats with a private balcony and a kitchenette with microwave and fridge; as well as cooking utensils so you can prepare your meals.
There is a rooftop swimming pool and the BurJuman shopping centre is right next door. There are plenty of restaurants and supermarkets nearby, and you can take a stroll through the heritage district of Bastakiya and the Dubai Museum. The metro station is right here, so it's easy to get around. Suitable for families, couples and singles.
Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai (Oud Metha)
Movenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai is located in Oud Metha, Bur Dubai and offers flats with kitchenette, fridge and microwave.
There is a swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi, tennis courts, restaurant and pub on site. You can walk to Dubai Healthcare City metro station. Suitable for families, couples and singles.
Swissôtel Al Ghurair (Deira)
Located on a lively street in Deira, Swissotel Al Ghurair offers :
Luxurious rooms and sauna
A gym
Spa
Swimming pool
Two on-site restaurants in what could well be a luxury hotel rather than a mid-range one.
Excellent value for money, and the nearest metro station is a 10-minute walk away.
Best luxury hotels in Old Dubai
Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah
The Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah is one of Dubai's favourite hotels for many reasons. Aside from the beautiful design that channels the vibes of an Asian sanctuary into a lobby that sparkles with crystal and light bronze tree canopies, the service here is friendly, the dining options fantastic and the views; both sea and city on Jumeirah, are some of my favourites in the city.
The hotel has a private beach, vibrant Mediterranean-inspired rooms, a spa and restaurants; including Japanese steakhouse Netsu and chef Jose Avillez's modern Portuguese restaurant Tasca.
The best part? It's close to both Old and New Dubai, so you can get around by taxi, Uber or bus.
Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights Residences (Bur Dubai)
At the Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights Residences, expect five-star rooms with stunning views of Dubai Creek and a kitchenette with fridge, microwave and cooking utensils.
There is a gym, sauna and swimming pool as well as many restaurants and bars on site. The metro station is just a short walk away.
Jumeirah Creekside Hotel (Al Garhoud)
The Jumeirah Creekside Hotel is a 15-minute drive from Dubai International Airport and offers luxurious accommodation, a wellness centre, on-site restaurants and bars, a swimming pool, tennis and squash courts.
The Irish Village is right next door and is great for having a few beers al fresco when the weather is nice.
Raffles Dubai (Oud Metha)
The Raffles Dubai offers luxurious rooms as well as a Turkish steam bath, sauna, swimming pool and Jacuzzi, plus a beauty centre. There is a Japanese restaurant on site called TOMO. It is a 15-20 minute walk from the metro station.
Park Hyatt Dubai (Deira)
Located along Dubai Creek and just a short walk from Deira city centre, the Park Hyatt Dubai offers a luxurious stay with fabulous views of the creek. As well as a jacuzzi, sauna, beauty centre, swimming pool and gym, there is a golf course and several restaurants and bars on site.
Downtown Dubai and Business Bay
Conveniently located between Old Dubai and Dubai Marina, but also considered part of New Dubai, Downtown Dubai and Business Bay are the areas around The Dubai Mall.
They are home to chic residences, hotels, entertainment and nightlife, as well as the Dubai Opera House. You'll find plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants, from moderately priced options to the more sophisticated.
The area is perfect in that it's central and easy to get around old and new Dubai by metro.
What's more, the Dubai Mall is packed with sights and attractions such as the Dubai Fountain, Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Aquarium and numerous shops.
When the weather is fine, it's a great place to take a stroll. You'll find that some hotels in this area can be more expensive, but hey, you'll probably get a view of the Burj Khalifa!
Sites around Downtown Dubai and the Business Bay
Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain, Dubai Aquarium, Burj Khalifa, Citywalk, La Mer and Dubai Frame.
Where to stay in Downtown Dubai and the Bay Area
Best budget hotels in Downtown Dubai and Business Bay
Rove Downtown Dubai
Rove Downtown Dubai offers comfortable rooms, a trendy restaurant, a social atmosphere perfect for solo travellers, a cinema and a rooftop pool. There is a launderette and mini-golf. You can walk to the Dubai Mall and other downtown Dubai attractions as well as the Dubai Mall Metro Station.
Millennium Central Downtown
The Millennium Central Downtown offers modern rooms, access to a spa, gym, sauna and rooftop pool in downtown Dubai.
Best mid-range hotels in Downtown Dubai and Business Bay
Manzil Downtown Dubai
The Manzil Downtown Dubai is located in the busiest part of downtown Dubai, right next to the Dubai Mall.
Rooms are modern and comfortable and guests can make use of the swimming pool and sauna. There is a charming Mediterranean restaurant set in a courtyard and plenty of options for dining and going out in the evenings. The metro station is within easy walking distance.
Vida Downtown Dubai
Vida Downtown Dubai is also within walking distance of Dubai Mall; Downtown Dubai attractions, restaurants and nightlife around and the metro station; offers modern rooms and a rooftop pool with cabanas (great Friday brunch here), sauna and gym. There are two on-site restaurants to choose from.
Other options at similar prices are the Sofitel Dubai Downtown and the Renaissance Downtown Dubai.
Best luxury hotels in Downtown Dubai and Business Bay
Palace Downtown Hotel
Palace Downtown Hotel, resembles a palace from an Arabian fairytale that sits just across a lake from the Burj Khalifa. Just under 5 minutes walk away is the Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Mall and its attractions.
It is a five-star hotel with a swimming pool, spa, wellness centre, lakeside bar and three restaurants including the incredibly romantic Thai restaurant Thiptara.
Armani Hotel Dubai
If you like the idea of staying in a luxury hotel in the world's tallest skyscraper, look no further than the Armani Hotel Dubai in the Burj Khalifa.
The hotel is modern and super stylish and has a number of renowned restaurants and bars, including Japanese, Indian and Italian.
Expect fancy stuff like a limo service, views of the Dubai Fountain and the Armani Spa. With:
A swimming pool
Gym
Hammam
Jacuzzi
Sauna.
It's within walking distance of Dubai Mall and the Dubai Opera House, and well, you're just a lift ride away from the Burj Khalifa Observatory!
Taj Dubai
Taj Dubai is an ultra-luxurious hotel from the renowned Indian Taj Hotels group. Expect excellent service; luxurious rooms, spa, gym, pool and sauna and stunning views of the city centre.
There is a pillow menu in every room. On-site restaurants are excellent and other dining and nightlife options are nearby. It is a short drive from the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa.
Sheikh Zayed Road, World Trade Center, DIFC, Mall of the Emirates and surrounding areas
If you want to stay between old and new Dubai and want excellent metro connectivity, choose a location along Sheikh Zayed Road, or around the World Trade Center, DIFC and Mall of the Emirates.
These areas are quite mixed in terms of the nationalities that live and work here. This same diversity is reflected in the restaurant and takeaway options, in terms of cuisines and budget suitability.
Here you'll find a variety of accommodation options in Dubai to suit all budgets, from serviced hotel flats to five-star luxury hotels. Personally, I feel like you can't really go wrong with this place as it's so central and well-connected.
Sites around Sheikh Zayed Road, World Trade Center, DIFC and Mall of the Emirates
Dubai Museum, Old Dubai Souks, Al Seef, World Trade Center, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Opera House, Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Frame, CityWalk, La Mer, Dubai International Financial Centre, Kite Beach, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Mall of the Emirates are all within minutes by public transport.
Accommodation in : Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai, World Trade Center, DIFC and Mall of the Emirates
Best budget hotels around Sheikh Zayed Road, World Trade Centre, DIFC and Mall of the Emirates
Dubai World Trade Centre Hotel Apartments (World Trade Center)
It's very affordable, the location is great with restaurants, bars, cafe and nightlife all around, and close to a metro station.
It's between old and new Dubai, so it's perfect for getting around the city by metro. There's a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, tennis courts and restaurant on site. Also perfect for attending conferences and meetings around the World Trade Centre.
Novotel Suites Dubai Mall of the Emirates (near Mall of the Emirates)
As well as modern, comfortable rooms with kitchenettes, guests at the Novotel Suites Dubai Mall of the Emirates have access to a rooftop swimming pool, tennis courts, gym, jacuzzi and sauna.
There is a restaurant on site but tons of other options around and in the Mall of the Emirates that you can reach on foot. Metro connection right next to the mall.
Centro Barsha by Rotana (near Mall of the Emirates)
Centro Barsha by Rotana is a budget hotel run by the trusted Rotana brand. Comfortable rooms with modern amenities and large windows, as well as an on-site restaurant. Walking distance to the nearest metro station and Mall of the Emirates where you will find Ski Dubai.
Gévora Hotel
The skyscraper Gevora Hotel is one of the most eye-catching buildings on Sheikh Zayed Road. The location is great; close to the metro and plenty of restaurants and nightlife within walking distance or one of two metro stops.
Ideally located between old and new Dubai. There is a jacuzzi, swimming pool, children's pool, sauna, fitness centre and business centre. In any other major international city, you would pay much more for this location and level of luxury.
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai (Sheikh Zayed Road)
The JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai offers luxurious rooms with fantastic views of the skyline and five-star facilities such as a sauna; swimming pool and spa.
There are excellent restaurants and bars on site, as well as a nightclub, and other dining, nightlife and entertainment options are just a short walk away. Just a few minutes' walk from the metro station.
Villa Rotana (Sheikh Zayed Road)
Villa Rotana is a luxurious mid-range hotel offering apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes.
There is a sauna and rooftop pool and you can opt for a meal plan. You can get around by metro, with the nearest station just a few minutes' walk away.
Best luxury hotels around Sheikh Zayed Road, World Trade Center, DIFC and Mall of the Emirates
Shangri La Hotel Dubai (Sheikh Zayed Road)
The luxurious Shangri La Hotel Dubai welcomes guests like Jackie Chan when they visit Dubai. There are several restaurants on site and many more around; as well as a swimming pool, gym, sauna and bar. Excellent metro links just a few minutes' walk away. The Dubai Mall is one metro station away or about 3-4 minutes by taxi.
The Ritz-Carlton Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
The Ritz-Carlton Dubai International Financial Center is a five-star luxury hotel in the heart of the DIFC. Rooms are modern with an in-room dining area and kitchen.
There is a swimming pool, sauna, fitness centre and spa with Turkish bath.
There are several on-site dining options as well as many restaurants and bars in the DIFC. Good metro links within walking distance.
V Hotel Dubai Curio Collection by Hilton (Sheikh Zayed Road)
The V Hotel Dubai Curio Collection by Hilton offers modern five-star accommodation, as well as a rooftop pool, gym, trendy on-site restaurants and bars and a nightclub.
Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel (near MOE)
The five-star Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel offers luxurious accommodation and access to a rooftop pool, terrace and sauna. Just a short walk from the Mall of the Emirates shopping centre, Ski Dubai and the metro station.
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates (near MOE)
Located right next to the Mall of the Emirates and with an indoor connection to the mall and Ski Dubai; the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates offers luxurious rooms and ski chalets overlooking Ski Dubai.
There are two infinity pools, a fitness centre, tennis courts, a spa, as well as a ski school and ski equipment hire. There are several restaurants and bars on site, and tons of other options at the Mall of the Emirates. The metro station is just outside.
Dubai's new districts: Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island
New Dubai can easily be described as the prettiest, brightest and newest part of Dubai and includes:
Dubai Marina
Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
The artificial islands of Palm Jumeirah
Bluewaters Island, among others.
Western expatriates, most of whom work for multinationals in Dubai, tend to live, work and hang out in these areas.
Here you'll find skyscrapers, waterfront promenades, beaches, shopping malls and plenty of options for dining; nightlife and entertainment.
If budget isn't an issue, then you can totally live the life here as this is the Dubai of boozy brunches and beach clubs and marina views and all the things the rest of the world has come to associate Dubai with.
The luxury hotels here leave no stone unturned; there are gold-infused spa treatments, private butlers, limousine transfers, Michelin-starred chefs running restaurants, villas with private pools and the chance to drive sports cars.
Some parts of New Dubai are better connected to the metro than others, such as Dubai Marina and JLT; while you can get to JBR with a metro and tram connection.
Dubai Marina is one of the best places to stay in Dubai. It's a great place with a canal, marina and promenade that allows cyclists, runners and fitness enthusiasts to work out along the water.
Sites around New Dubai
Dubai Marina Mall, Palm Jumeirah, Ibn Battuta Mall, Atlantis, Burj Al Arab, Madinat Jumeirah, Ain Dubai; The Beach Mall, JBR Walk, Bluewaters Island, Dubai Parks & Resorts, Bollywood Parks, Wild Wadi.
Other places to stay in Dubai besides those mentioned above include City Walk, Dubai Festival City, Mirdif, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City and Al Barsha.
You'll also find hotels and flats in these areas; and some of them are close to the places mentioned.
Think of them as extensions of the list. For example, City Walk in Al Safa is close to Jumeirah, and Barsha, Dubai Internet City and Media City are close to Dubai Marina and JLT (just 1-2 metro stops away).
Where to stay in New Dubai: Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island
Here are the choices of accommodation in Dubai in different areas of New Dubai.
Best cheap hotels in New Dubai: Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island
Flat overlooking the marina
To stay in Dubai's bustling marina on a budget, consider renting a flat at the Marina View Hotel Apartment.
Guests have access to a swimming pool, sauna and gym, as well as tennis courts. All rooms are equipped with a kitchenette, microwave and fridge.
There is a restaurant on site and other dining options in Dubai Marina are within walking distance; as is the nearest metro station.
Mövenpick Hotel, Jumeirah Lakes Towers
Guests at the Movenpick Hotel at Jumeirah Lakes Towers can stay in spacious rooms with access to a jacuzzi; sauna and swimming pool, as well as a fitness centre, lounge and restaurant. There is also a metro connection.
Wyndham Dubai Marina
At the Wyndham Dubai Marina, expect modern rooms with skyscraper views and tea/coffee making facilities in a residential yet lively area.
On-site dining is available, but tons of restaurants and nightlife are nearby.
You can walk to the beautiful Dubai Marina promenade and also to the nearest metro station.
Best mid-range hotels in New Dubai: Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island
JA Ocean View Hotel
The JA Ocean View Hotel offers spacious rooms with private balconies; most with ocean views; as well as a sauna and swimming pool along the JBR promenade.
Numerous dining and nightlife options on JBR Promenade and an easy stroll to Dubai Marina in fine weather; as well as JBR Public Beach are also within walking distance.
La Verda Suites & Villas Dubai Marina
To stay in Dubai Marina within walking distance of Dubai Marina Mall; the metro station and Marina Walk, consider staying at La Verda Suites & Villas Dubai Marina.
Guests have access to a gym, swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and terrace. All flats are equipped with a kitchen and a private balcony.
There are restaurants on site and you can walk to the nearest metro station in a few minutes.
Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites
The Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites is a luxury hotel located in Dubai Marina with spacious rooms.
It also offers a spa, outdoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna and fitness centre. There are on-site dining options and Dubai Marina's restaurants and nightlife are within walking distance.
Amwaj Rotana
Part of the award-winning Rotana group, one of my favourite local hotel chains in Dubai; Amwaj Rotana is ideally located on JBR Walk.
There is a swimming pool, fitness centre, sauna and jacuzzi and a beauty centre. There are several dining options on site and just outside the hotel.
Other dining and nightlife options can be found along the JBR promenade. JBR Beach is within walking distance of the hotel.
Best luxury hotels in New Dubai: Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island
Continue reading with : Dubai hotels, luxury and fun guaranteed in this top list
Bulgari Resort Dubai (Jumeirah Bay Island plus private beach)
The Bulgari Resort Dubai on Jumeirah Bay Island is one of Dubai's favourite luxury hotels at the moment.
Firstly, the location is brilliant; it's on a man-made seahorse-shaped island just off the coast of Jumeirah. And close to Old Dubai, Dubai's tourist attractions and New Dubai. The design is beautiful; the décor is tasteful, there is a private beach, swimming pool, spa and good restaurants serving delicious Italian cuisine.
There is also a marina and a seafood restaurant overlooking the marina. You will need to travel by car or taxi as there is no public transport.
Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai (Palm Jumeirah plus private beach)
It's like stepping into a grand palace in Europe. The hotel was inspired by the Palace of Versailles and boy, do you feel like royalty here.
The rooms are luxurious and majestic, the design and decor is opulent, and the restaurants and bars are some of the best in Dubai.
There is, of course, a private beach, swimming pool, sauna, gym, spa, private cinema and mini-golf.
It's a butler service because clearly; royalty don't do their own unpacking! It's away from city life and located in a quiet area of Palm Jumeirah.
Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai (Palm Jumeirah plus private beach)
The trendy Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai offers modern rooms as well as a swimming pool; private beach, spa and gym. There are dining options within the hotel and a great bar with fantastic views.
The surrounding area offers many other options for dining and nightlife.
One&Only The Palm Dubai (Palm Jumeirah plus private beach)
One&Only The Palm Dubai will always be one of my favourite hotels in Palm Jumeirah. It's also one of the most romantic hotels in Dubai; perfect for weddings and special occasions.
There is a private beach, Guerlain spa, outdoor pool, tennis courts, sauna and gym with indoor lap pool.
Rooms are luxurious and spacious, with fantastic views of the sea or landscaped gardens.
Excellent restaurants and bars include the 101 Dining Lounge and Bar overlooking the marina.
Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf in Madinat Jumeirah (Jumeirah plus private beach)
Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf in Madinat Jumeirah is one of my favourite family-run luxury hotels in Dubai because the location is beautiful; right in the middle of the romantic canals of Madinat Jumeirah.
Here, amongst these canals, the Arabian-inspired villas offer luxury stays in an area that is bursting with dining and entertainment options. There is a private beach, swimming pool, sauna, fitness centre and spa.
The award-winning Pai Thai restaurant is a must-visit.
Another similar option here is the Jumeirah Mina A'Salam.
The Address Dubai Marina (City Hotel at Dubai Marina)
The Address Dubai Marina is located in the heart of Dubai Marina, right next to the Dubai Marina shopping mall.
Rooms are modern and luxurious, and there is a rooftop swimming pool, gym and kids club, as well as a spa. Many restaurants and bars on site and other options within walking distance. Good metro connection for getting around.
See also:
Dubai Marina, the destination for luxury and beautiful views
Palm Jumeirah Dubai: everything you need to know (2022)
