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DUBAI TRAVEL GUIDE

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EXPLORE HOTEL REVIEWS

Near+Far's top, tried-and-tested, hotels, from new openings to timeless classics

Why 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central Is Still The City’s Most Unique And Exciting Hotel

WHERE TO STAY / 3 APRIL 2024

All The Greek Islands You Can Fly To Directly This Summer From The UAE

INSPIRATION / 18 MARCH 2024

10 Incredible Destination Dupes Perfect for 2024 Eid and Summer Escapes 

INSPIRATION / 13 FEBRUARY 2024

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INSPIRATION

Everything you need to plan your next great escape

More inspiration.

The chicest cafés and coffee shops in Dubai for catch-ups, casual fare and co-working

From bright and beachy hangouts serving oat milk flat whites and design-led warehouses to late-night haunts with indulgent menus

Lake Como’s Passalacqua hotel and sister Grand Hotel Tremezzo have unveiled a sensational new collection of bespoke products available online

The 'Best Hotel In The World' has launched an exquisite new online lifestyle store

Set on the golden sands between bustling JBR and Dubai Marina, Habtoor Grand Resort is maximising the holiday season with an unmissable three-night package

This Dubai Beach Resort Is Offering An Unforgettable Eid And Easter Holiday Package

WHERE TO STAY

Our editor’s 16 best restaurants in Dubai: tried and rested, from timeless to new

Personal favourite restaurants in Dubai for every occasion, from a laid-back Lebanese to the city’s own Chiltern Firehouse

hotel reviews

Anantara mina al arab: the maldives in ras al khaimah’s mangroves.

The hotly anticipated hotel is finally open, complete with Maldives-style overwater villas, protected mangrove fields and golden beach – we checked in for the weekend

23 Fabulous iftars and suhoors in Dubai to enjoy this Ramadan 

From dining under the stars on the shores of the creek, to a beachfront iftar tent at one of Dubai’s most luxurious hotels

Inside Dubai's stunning and affordable new boutique hotel

Two historic residences have been transformed into a 20-room boutique hotel on Dubai’s storied creek, with design-led rooms and a unique, laid-back vibe

The most beautiful mosques in the UAE open to non-Muslims

Explore the culture and heritage of the UAE with a visit to one of these beautiful mosques

Everything we know about Aman Dubai: The city’s 'most expensive' new hotel

The world’s most exclusive and luxurious hotel brand is opening its doors in the UAE. Here’s all we know about Aman Dubai

The stylish travellers' guide to AlUla, the word's largest living museum

Saudi arabia, where we're staying.

Bab Al Shams: A shiny new chapter for the beloved Dubai desert resort

Amankora Bhutan: The Complete Guide To Visiting Bhutan In Luxury

Raffles Doha: A modern Arabian  fairytale in the Qatari capital

Doha, qatar

Aman Le Mélézin: Courchevel 1850’S Ultimate Elite Hideaway

courchevel, france

Six Senses Zighy Bay: An eco-luxury Omani village two hours from Dubai

MUSANDAM, OMAN

Four Seasons Astir Palace: The Greek islands on the Athens Riviera

Vouliagmeni, ATHENS, GREECE

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort: An Arabian palace rising from sands

empty quarter, abu dhabi, uae

Aman New York: Far East luxury in Midtown Manhattan

new york city, usa

Short-haul flights from Dubai: 7 interesting destinations less than four hours away

7 interesting destinations less than four hours flight away from dubai, the latest news and travel tips to improve how you travel, more news+tips.

Anantara Is opening a new Greek-Island-inspired boutique hotel in Ghantoot, Abu Dhabi

Anantara Santorini will take inspiration from the Cycladic island with whitewashed walls, ocean views and a distinctly Grecian vibe

saudi arabia

Roam launches ‘unforgettable long weekend’ packages to saudi arabia’s idyllic red sea, is this dubai’s chicest new restaurant and beach club.

Treat yourself to a remarkable long weekend, where you will discover the stunning beauty of the Red Sea coastline and Saudi’s desert landscapes

Nobu by the Beach delivers the iconic brand’s elevated and exclusive vibes with manicured grounds, a graceful swimming pool and killer restaurant

All the visa-on-arrival destinations for UAE residents to explore in 2024

The 14 other destinations offering stress-free visa processes – whatever the passport

All the Visa-On-Arrival destinations for UAE residents and citizens to explore in 2024

News + Tips , UAE

2 April 2024

Full article

When is Eid 2024? UAE residents to enjoy nine-day public holiday this April

News + Tips

FULL ARTICLE

30 March 2024

When is the next public holiday in the UAE?

19 March 2024

Uzbekistan travel guide: What to see, do and where to stay in the cradle of the Silk Road

Asia , News + Tips

11 March 2024

Everything we know about Aman Dubai: The city’s ‘most expensive’ new hotel

8 March 2024

Teaching English Abroad: Top Destinations in the Middle East for TEFL Teachers

News + Tips , Partnership

This cheeky hotel brand is opening in Nice with flamboyant interiors and a rooftop pool

Near+Far’s best hotels in the world: Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas

Hotel Reviews

This Dubai beach resort is offering an unforgettable Eid and Easter holiday package

Where To Stay

SIRO One Za’abeel review: Dubai’s first fitness and recovery hotel

Alwadi Doha – MGallery Hotel Collection review: A chic and affordable escape

Amankora Bhutan review: The Complete Guide to Visiting Bhutan in Luxury

Eid Escapes 2024: Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita review

more where to stay

Where to stay, the most beautiful hotels, guest houses, resorts and private rentals around the world.

Near+Far's 20 very best hotels in Dubai for 2024

From authentic Arabian retreats to ultra-modern international brands, there's nowhere else to stay in the beachy, tourism capital of the UAE, 

inspiration

What is janu aman's affordable lifestyle brand coming to ksa.

The new hotel group will debut this year with Janu Tokyo, followed by Saudi Arabia’s Janu AlUla and Janu Diriyah

The most unique and beautiful hotels in Abu Dhabi with private pools

In remote island retreats inspired by Emirati fishing villages, mirage-like desert palaces and modern beach resorts a stone’s throw from the city

6 hotels from the year’s biggest TV shows and movies you can book now 

From the billionaire’s Greek island mansion in Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery to the real-life Sicilian White Lotus resort

Airbnb Of The Week: A Unique cave experience in Jordan's Petra

Right by the world-famous desert city, this unique, Bedouin-owned cave dwelling is a one-of-a-kind adventure

14  Colourful Swimsuits we love right now

Life+ style, life and style essentials for the sophisticated modern traveller, more life+style.

These are the Middle East travel influencers you need to follow

LIFE + STYLE

Feeling Well: The Spa, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi

More life+style, entrepreneur tarek roumie on the coolest thing in dubai right now.

Everything We’re Loving From Farfetch’s New Modest Ramadan Collection

Exploring Queen Rania’s Birthplace: A Guide to Kuwait City

The best hotel in the world has launched an exquisite new online lifestyle store

Roksanda Ilinčić on her London love story, hometown of Belgrade and building a fearless, statement wardrobe

Celebrity dentist dr michael apa on how he travels to dubai, his go-to travel bag, and what’s always inside it, beauty entrepreneur and content creator, salama mohamed's favourite travel destinations and go-to in-flight regime.

NEAR+FAR EDIT

IN OUR SUITCASE

The 19  Best Bars In Dubai: From Day Drinks To Nightcaps

Near+Far Best Restaurants: Carna by Dario Cecchini, Dubai

25 March 2024

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Near+far’s best restaurants: ling ling dubai.

The best places for suhoor and iftar in Riyadh this Ramadan

23 fabulous Iftars and Suhoors in Dubai to enjoy in Ramadan 2024

Near+Far’s Best Restaurants: Sfumato Dubai

The 11 best vegan restaurants in Dubai for a stylish, plant-based experience

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The 15  coolest cafés and coffee shops in abu dhabi, the 16 best restaurants in bahrain for an exceptional dining experience, the guild review: dubai’s most beautiful restaurant, the 18 most stylish spots for breakfast in dubai.

For the latest, relevant, news for the luxury-loving independent travellers, where to go now, unmissable travel offers, travel tips and what to do, buy and see, direct to your inbox...

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NEWS + TIPS

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This Glamorous Middle Eastern City Has Luxury Hotels, Thrilling Desert Adventures, and Michelin-starred Dining

Here's how to plan the perfect visit to Dubai.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things to Do

Best shopping, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to visit, how to get around.

Buena Vista Images/Getty Images

Dubai is full of contrasts. There's the glittering skyline of skyscrapers so tall they defy imagination. There is the modern collection of stores and eateries, offering every option a traveler could want. And then there are the luxurious hotels, ready to welcome even the most discerning traveler in style and excess. Then there's the desert with its rolling hills of sand stamped with the footprints of Arabian oryx and gazelles; the souks with their labyrinth of stalls, bins overflowing with a rainbow of spices; and the traditional abra boats ferrying riders across the Dubai Creek.

“Dubai is the ideal destination for tourists, and there are a number of reasons why,” Farida Ahmed, a guide and owner of Frying Pan Adventures , told Travel + Leisure . “It is safe, whether you are traveling solo or as a family. That, for me, is one of the most pivotal points on which tourism rests."

The city, one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has sprouted up from its desert port beginnings to become a sprawling metropolis full of vibrant neighborhoods, record-setting buildings, and over-the-top shopping centers all in the last several decades. "There is something for everyone and everyone's pocket — if you’re looking for budget travel you can absolutely do it in Dubai," said Ahmed.

Today, Dubai can be fast and slow at the same time — a place to grab an avocado toast and relax on the beach, a place to appreciate a desert conservation reserve, and a place to shop 'til you drop, all in the same day. It's these contrasts that make Dubai one of the most dynamic and interesting cities in the world.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Armani hotel dubai.

This luxurious hotel is located in one of the most famous buildings in Dubai and the world: the Burj Khalifa. Armani Hotel Dubai takes up the first eight floors as well as the 38th and 39th floors of the world's tallest tower, offering incredible views of the city and the Arabian Gulf below. Rooms are designed by the hotel's namesake, Giorgio Armani, and feature muted colors that will relax any guest after a long day of shopping at nearby The Dubai Mall.

Burj Al Arab

If the Burj Khalifa is the most recognizable building in Dubai, the Burj Al Arab is a close second. Inside this iconic sail-shaped building floating in the middle of The Gulf is one of the most stunning hotels in the city. Each colorful room comes with Hermes amenities and butler service as well as access to the hotel's private beach.

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa

Set against rolling sand dunes and roaming oryx, Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa offers guests an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with 42 individual suites all with their own private pools overlooking unobstructed views of the pristine desert. During your stay, book a dune drive to get your heart pumping or go on a guided nature walk in the desert. In the morning, sit down to breakfast on the veranda and keep your eyes peeled for a few gazelles popping by to say hello over coffee.

Queen Elizabeth 2

This unique property was once a working cruise ship that has been converted into a hotel , permanently docked in Dubai. The 13-deck ship features 447 refurbished hotel rooms and suites — including the Royal Suite with a large wood-lined private deck — restaurants, a spa, and a theater. History buffs can tour the ship's bridge and see what the cabins looked like in the 1960s before settling in for a leisurely afternoon tea complete with finger sandwiches, traditional cakes, and warm scones with clotted cream.

XVA Art Hotel

XVA Art Hotel is a boutique hotel that feels like stepping back in time with its romantic shaded courtyards, dark wood, and rich textiles. The hotel, which was built in what used to be a home in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, has 15 individually designed rooms all located around three courtyards. And don't miss a chance to walk through the hotel's art gallery, which features contemporary art from both established and emerging artists.

Frying Pan Adventures

One of the best ways to experience a place is through its food and these food tours offer to paint visitors a culinary map of Dubai, which Ahmed said has “now established itself as one of the culinary meccas of the world.” Try sweet milky tea in the back alleys of a souk, meat and rice pilaf , stuffed falafels, or learn about the custom of making Arabic coffee while also learning about the history of the city with one of the many female guides. 

Global Village

Dubai's Global Village is unlike anything else, showcasing more than 70 cultures at different country pavilions where visitors can shop, eat, and more. Bring a camera and capture a cool photo "for the 'gram" at one of the "selfie spots" or catch one of the many shows.

Skiing in the desert is possible at Ski Dubai where an indoor slope in the Mall of the Emirates allows ski and snowboard enthusiasts to clip or strap in and hone their skills. Playing in the snow more your thing? Try the twin-track bobsled experience or take some time to hang out with the resident gentoo and king penguins.

Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest tower in the world and the view from the top is rightfully spectacular. Take in Dubai's many neighborhoods with this bird's eye view from the 125th floor or book a spot on the world's highest observation deck with an outdoor terrace on the 148th floor. The Burj Khalifa VIP experience includes access to the world’s highest lounge on the 154th floor. 

Ahmed recommended checking the weather forecast before you book a trip up the Burj Khalifa, noting that “if it's not a clear day you are not going to be seeing anything but haze.” For your best chance of a clear view, she noted that “the sky tends to be clearer before sunset.”

Royal Shaheen

Learn all about falconry from a team of professional falconers on a tour with Royal Shaheen — and get the chance to handle some of the magnificent animals yourself. These tours are interactive and family-friendly, and allow guests to learn both traditional and modern falconry training techniques.

The Dubai Mall holds the Guinness World Record for the largest shopping center in the world with more than 1,200 retail outlets, including two major department stores: Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale's. It also has more than 200 food and beverage outlets. Basically, it's so big you could easily get lost for days. The mall even developed its own app with turn-by-turn navigation to help shoppers reach (and return from) their destination. Beyond shopping, the mall has an aquarium and an Olympic-sized ice rink. The vibe and decor change depending on which part of the mall you're in, so plan to spend some time exploring. An added bonus: it's air-conditioned.

Mall of the Emirates

The Mall of the Emirates is slightly smaller than the Dubai Mall, but still features more than 630 brands and more than 100 places to grab a bite. Beyond the stores themselves, visitors will find the city's indoor ski slope and a bowling alley. (If your phone dies while you're shopping, you can borrow a portable charger for free.)

The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence

This shopping destination stretches along more than one mile of beachfront and features both international designers and fun pop-up markets. Check out Sauce for beachy and boho-inspired dresses and cool rattan bags before grabbing a bite at one of the restaurants overlooking the gulf.

Textile and Gold Souks

Arnaud_Martinez/Getty Images

Dubai may be known for its modern skyscrapers, but there's another side to the city where traditional souks sell everything from souvenirs to beautiful scarves. Choose from towering racks of fabric at the Textile Souk in the historic Bur Dubai neighborhood or hop across the Dubai Creek to browse endless rows of jewelry stores selling gold bangles and sparkling gems in the Gold Souk . And remember: haggling is all part of the fun.

Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant

Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant is part museum and part eatery. The restaurant, which boasts a covered dining courtyard with a tree, has live music, and fresh-made bread, and the staff is dressed in traditional robes. “Do not leave the city without trying Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant," said Ahmed. "It is one of the few restaurants in Old Dubai that's been recognized. The food is great and I love the decor.” The restaurant has earned the Michelin's Bib Gourmand designation.

Al Farooj Al Shami Restaurant

The Syrian fare served at Al Farooj Al Shami is second to none. Grilled meats, fresh-made sauces, and a mouth-watering list of hot appetizers make this local spot one of Ahmed’s must-visits.

Comptoir 102

You'd be forgiven for thinking you were in California or Tulum when you settled into the shaded courtyard of Comptoir 102 . Order an avocado crostini, halloumi salad, or gluten-free buckwheat pancakes, and recharge with a chai latte made with homemade almond milk. After you're done eating at this organic cafe, pop over to the attached concept store where you'll find boho dresses, unique glassware, jewelry, and more.

Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams

Dinner at Al Hadheerah is more than just a meal, it's an experience. Ten live cooking stations delight guests as they feast under the stars in the middle of the desert, offering classic dishes like shawarma and lamb ouzi cooked underground as well as salads like hummus and tabbouleh. And don't forget dessert where you can sample favorites like kunafa and baklava. Reservations are recommended.

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter when the year-round hot weather starts to cool. In general, temperatures start to dip in October and it remains only moderately hot through May. While the hot season is from June to September, it's worth noting that air conditioning is plentiful across Dubai.

“The really amazing months for me are November to February,” said Ahmed, who noted that when winter arrives in Dubai, “we literally crawl out of our hibernation phase and it's all about spending time at the beach and desert BBQs.”

Winter is also when the Dubai Shopping Festival takes place. It's a December and January event that is known for its great deals, live entertainment, and raffles.

nantonov/Getty Images

The best way to get into Dubai is by plane. Thousands of flights arrive at Dubai International Airport (DXB) each week, making it one of the busiest airports in the world. It is located in the northern part of the city, making it the best option for travelers who will be staying and playing on the northern side of Dubai.

The newer Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), also known as Dubai World Central, started welcoming travelers in 2013 and is still under construction. The airport provides access to the growing southern end of the city. When it is completed, it will be the world’s largest airport.

Lara Antal/Travel + Leisure

This area is a collection of neighborhoods around Dubai Creek (Khor Dubai) , including Deira and the Al Fahidi historical neighborhood . A stroll through this area — lined with low-profile gypsum, sand, and coral buildings — will give visitors a small taste of what Dubai was like before the modern construction boom. Spend some time exploring the area's souks or hop on an abra for a boat ride along the creek, which used to be the entry to the pearl diving port.

Angelo Cavalli/Getty Images

Jumeirah Beach Residences and Dubai Marina

These neighborhoods, which sit next to each other, form one of the best places to go for a waterfront stroll. Grab a bite to eat with a view of the gulf in Jumeirah Beach Residences before getting ice cream and walking over to the marina to watch the sunset on the water, surrounded by towering modern skyscrapers.

Downtown Dubai

This is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in the city, home to the Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Fountain , which puts on a fantastic show every 30 minutes each night. Shop 'til you drop, head up to the top of the tallest tower in the world, or grab a seat at one of the many restaurants surrounding the fountain for dinner and a show.

Palm Jumeirah

This palm-shaped island is man-made and dotted with luxury hotels and beach clubs. Kids will love the over-the-top waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm , while adults will enjoy whiling away the day at one of the many pool decks. For a bird's eye view of the island itself, try skydiving — just remember to stop screaming long enough to take it all in.

kolderal/Getty Images

Taxis are the default way to get around Dubai, but if you want to really explore the city and the neighboring emirates, Ahmed recommended renting a car. “It will make your life easier plus it will open up the possibility for you to explore the other emirates in the UAE. If time is of the essence, get yourself a car,” she said.

She noted that the metro is great if you’re staying in and traveling around Old Dubai, but if you want to explore New Dubai or go further afield, taxi hires and car rentals are the easiest way to get around.

Taxis: Dubai has an extensive network of taxis that bring travelers throughout the city. It's easy to hail a taxi at popular attractions like the malls and the beach. For women who feel more comfortable with a female driver, the city even has " Ladies and Families " taxis, which are always driven by women. Those looking to schedule a taxi ride can use apps like Uber and Careem, which operate throughout the city.

Trains: The Dubai Metro is cooler than your average subway, featuring automated and sleek cars, WiFi, and even separate cars that women and children can use. (The Red Line even holds the Guinness World Record for the longest driverless metro line at more than 32 miles long.) There are nearly 30 metro stations and a good amount of the track is outdoors, passing by iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and making it a great way to see the city and get from Point A to B. Passengers can purchase single, return, or day-pass tickets — or get a cashless smart card called Nol.

Buses: Dubai has more than 1,500 buses that cover a hefty majority of the city's urban areas.

Abra : Travelers can ride these traditional wooden boats between the Bur Dubai area and the Deira area where Dubai's Gold Souk, Textile Souk, and Spice Souk are located.

Client: Partnered with dnata Travel

Project: World Traveller Middle East, multichannel magazine, dual language,

Launch: We launched World Traveller in 2006, at a time when the UAE was rapidly developing to welcome visitors from across the globe and its two world-class airlines expanded their networks to fuel the wanderlust of its residents.

Today: World Traveller is the biggest travel magazine in the Middle East, published in print and digital formats and in both English and Arabic languages. Distributed exclusively to customers of the Middle East’s largest travel company, dnata Travel, the reach of the print edition extends across the Gulf countries, Saudi Arabia included, while the digital content hits an opt-in database of over 400,000.

World Traveller Online

Click here to visit, worldtravellermagazine.com.

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United Arab Emirates

Dubai Marina Lights (Photo: kermal Kastelli via Flickr)

Rolling sand dunes crowned by a caravan of camels, pristine white mosques and an Arab capital of culture. These are three of the main reasons to visit the United Arab Emirates, but there is one place missing from this list. The UAE has seven emirates that make up the federation, although most people never get beyond one of them: Dubai. The Burj Khalifa, the sands of Jumeirah and the artificial palm-tree promontories built out into the sea are the glitz and glamour afforded by the country’s black gold reserves, showcasing increasingly inventive ways to splurge. But away from the skyscraper-stuffed skyline is a gentle, cultured country with hints of a pre-oil past and an array of alluring experiences on offer. November to March are the coolest months, but the word cool here is merely relative.

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Dubai Luxury Hotels & Resorts

Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa - Dubai, UAE

• Setting: Desert, Remote
• Trip Type: Adventure/Eco/Nature, Romantic Getaway, Spa & Wellness

Al Maha Desert Resort is an idyllic, exclusive oasis, set within a 25-square kilometre desert conservation reserve.

Atlantis The Palm - Dubai, UAE - 5 Star Luxury Resort

• Rooms & Suites: 1539
• Setting: Beach, City, Island
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Family Vacation, Romantic Getaway, Wedding

Atlantis, The Palm is the first entertainment resort destination in the region and located at the centre of the crescent of The Palm in Dubai.

Armani Hotel Dubai, United Arab Emirates - 5 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 160
• Setting: City, Coastal
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Romantic Getaway, Shopping & Fashion, Spa & Wellness, Wedding

Armani Hotel offers guests an exclusive luxury hotel lifestyle in Dubai. Stay in this timelessly elegant hotel.

Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah - Dubai, UAE - Exclusive 5 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 29
• Setting: Beach, City
• Trip Type: Romantic Getaway, Wedding

Al Qasr is an exclusive 29-room property that is part of the sprawling Madinat Jumeirah Resort. The resort comprises Mina A' Salam hotel at one end, the Six Senses Spa at the other, and a man-made waterway, an undulating swimming pool, restaurant terraces and the Souk shopping area in between.

Hotel Ajman - United Arab Emirates - 5 Star Luxury Resort

• Rooms & Suites: 189
• Setting: Beach

Sprawled along the shores of the idyllic emirate Ajman, Kempinski Hotel Ajman promises more beach per head with more than 500 metres of private white sandy beach and crystal clear blue waters.

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa - Dubai, UAE - Exclusive 5 Star Luxury Resort

• Rooms & Suites: 113
• Setting: Desert
• Trip Type: Family Vacation, Romantic Getaway, Wedding

Emerging from the heart of the desert, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is an elegant desert resort in a traditional Arabic fort setting.

Burj Al Arab - Dubai, UAE - Exclusive 5 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 202
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Romantic Getaway

A billowing, sail-shaped structure soaring 321 meters above the Arabian Gulf, Burj Al Arab is a dramatic tribute to the region's seafaring heritage, and the world's tallest hotel.

Desert Palm - Dubai, UAE - Exclusive 5 Star Luxury Resort & Spa

• Rooms & Suites: 28
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Romantic Getaway, Spa & Wellness, Wedding

Desert Palm Retreat offers 24 'naturally modern' guest suites and pool villas, each showcasing its own distinctive design embodying the simplicity and elegance of the estate's graceful surrounds.

Dar Al Masyaf at Madinat Jumeirah Resort - Dubai, UAE - 5 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 283

Literally translated, Dar Al Masyaf means summer houses. Authentically recreated, they are designed to provide sun-drenched spaciousness in the style of elegant residential retreats.

Fairmont Dubai, United Arab Emirates 5 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 394
• Setting: City
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Shopping & Fashion, Spa & Wellness, Wedding

A unique blend of contemporary design and urban chic, Fairmont Dubai hotel is an icon in the financial heart of the city.

Grosvenor House, A Luxury Collection Hotel - Dubai, United Arab Emirates - 5 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 422
• Setting: City, Desert
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Golf Getaway, Shopping & Fashion, Spa & Wellness, Wedding

Grosvenor House, A Luxury Collection Hotel is a landmark of unrivaled luxury complemented by breathtaking panoramic views of both the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai Marina.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel - Dubai, UAE - 5 Star Luxury Family Resort

• Rooms & Suites: 685
• Setting: Beach, Desert

Reinventing the hotel experience, Jumeirah Beach Hotel introduces a new lifestyle that integrates all the excitement and exhilaration designed for couples, families and friends.

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray - Dubai Luxury Resort

• Rooms & Suites: 443
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Family Vacation, Shopping & Fashion, Spa & Wellness, Wedding

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is a luxurious beachside resort located on the West Crescent of the iconic Palm Jumeirah in Dubai.

Jumeirah Emirates Towers - Dubai, UAE - 5 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 400
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Shopping & Fashion, Wedding

Set among landscaped gardens, ornamental lakes and waterfalls, Jumeirah Emirates Towers is the ideal environment for the discerning corporate traveller.

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates - Dubai, UAE - 5 Star Luxury Hotel

• Rooms & Suites: 393
• Trip Type: Business Meeting, Family Vacation, Shopping & Fashion, Ski Vacation, Spa & Wellness

The world's first shopping resort and home of Ski Dubai.

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Dubai Travel Guide

It’s hard to believe when confronting the sheer scale of Dubai, but most of the city was built in just the last 50 years. It makes the world’s biggest shopping mall, tallest skyscraper, and a host of ultra-luxurious hotels all the more bewildering. Still, amid all the glamor and superlatives, there are vestiges of a pre-skyscraper Dubai, in its winding souks and the vast empty desert that surrounds the city. Here’s how to navigate both sides of this always-growing metropolis.

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A Luxury Guide to Dubai, The City of Gold

After lifting Covid-19 restrictions, the city is back on travelers' lists with plenty to do and see.

By Jessica Kelly

Glam, luxury and fashion meet the melting pot of the Middle East. With over 200 different cultures and a ton of expats, Dubai is nestled in the southeast of the Persian Gulf and has a luxurious reputation in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai, also known as the City of Gold, is even home to an entire souk devoted to selling gold. The modern architecture with buildings like the Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa makes the Dubai skyline a noteworthy one. After lifting Covid-19 restrictions, the city is now back on many travelers’ lists with plenty to do and see. In this travel guide, Elite Traveler takes a look at the diverse range of experiences to choose from in Dubai.

When planning your trip to Dubai, consider Emirates business class flights . It’s over a 12-hour flight from New York City , so comfort is essential. You’ll have access to the standup lounge bar, plenty of food, a top-tier wine list, cocktails and entertainment, and the service is impeccable. Once you arrive, they arrange airport transfers in Mercedes vehicles to your destination.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

At the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, guests have views of the Persian Gulf, with private beach access and beautiful sea views from most of the rooms. Not only do guests get to take in beautiful views of the gulf, but incredible views of Burj Al Arab, too. The deep soaking tubs in the suites and the balcony overlooking the lit-up view of the Burj Al Arab in the evening is the perfect backdrop when you order prawn curry, naan bread and knafeh on the room service menu. For the romance package, the hotel fills the room with chocolates, a tub filled with bubbles and rose petals, a huge bouquet of red roses, champagne and more.

jumeirah.com

Burj Al Arab

When people see the Burj Al Arab, they are reminded of top-tier Arabian luxury / ©Jessica Kelly

The Burj Al Arab is easily one of the most iconic buildings in the city’s skyline, among being an architectural icon around the world. When people see the Burj Al Arab, they are reminded of top-tier Arabian luxury. Even the most basic rooms are incredible, but the top-tier suites are something to splurge on if you want to feel like royalty. The suites have attracted some of the highest names among celebrities and royalty, with the architecture reflecting the colorful unique designs throughout the Burj Al Arab.

The spa treatments at Talise Spa in the Burj Al Arab are something that just simply cannot be missed. The massage tables overlook the view of the skyline and the gulf. While waiting, guests are served tea and dates while relaxing by the infinity pool. Talise is also the only place to offer the “Leg King” Professor Francesco Canonaco’s wildly successful program that is said to cure cellulite, water retention and all vascular problems in the legs.

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Atlantis, the palm.

There are a variety of romantic packages and luxury stays within Atlantis / ©Jessica Kelly

Atlantis caters to couples, adults and families, with so much to offer guests that they sometimes don’t even leave the hotel . There are a variety of romantic packages and luxury stays within Atlantis, including the notable underwater suites, among other prime suites with stunning waterfront views. The underwater suite is truly unbelievable. Guests can relax in bed, or soak in their deep tub while watching eagle rays, sharks, and schools of fish swim by. The high-end suite is a spacious two-story room with its own personal elevator, perfect for a luxurious getaway.

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Bab al shams.

The design at Bab Al Shams consists of traditional Arab architecture / ©Jessica Kelly

Arriving at Bab Al Shams, it truly feels like a luxurious desert escape. The design consists of traditional Arab architecture, immersed in the desert with infinity pools overlooking the sand dunes and an extensive ecosystem filled with birds and gazelles, among other wildlife. The location provides an escape from the busy city life with a selection of activities for guests including desert exploration hikes, massages, horseback riding, archery, camel riding, falconry and more in between sunbathing or relaxing in your soaking tub in the bedroom.

The food is fantastic, with plenty of fresh-squeezed juices, coconut water, wraps and more. Pre-dinner cocktails at Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge are a must before heading out. If guests are lucky enough to be in Dubai during Ramadan, the hotel’s Iftar is outstanding, with a wide selection of traditional foods, live shows, music, tea, hookah and more. Since Covid-19, the shows are back and more lively than ever, and group activities are encouraged for guests.

babalshams.com

[See more: The Most Luxurious Hotels in Dubai]

The King Crab and homemade trenette pasta at SAL / ©Jessica Kelly

While visiting the Burj Al Arab, stop at SAL for a bite to eat before relaxing by the infinity pool over the Arabian Gulf. SAL serves a variety of Mediterranean dishes and fresh seafood, like the King Crab and homemade trenette pasta with bright green, fragrant fresh basil pesto, plump tomato, espelette chili and tangy balsamic or the light tomato gazpacho with capsicum, cucumber and crispy bread.

Dinner at Bastion is a must while staying at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel / ©Jessica Kelly

Dinner at Bastion is a must while staying at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. The steakhouse offers views of the Burj Al Arab and serves delicious cuts like kiwami wagyu and rack of lamb, among other appetizers to share like foie gras, calamari, tableside steak tartare and more. In addition to the main courses, the restaurant offers an extensive wine list and knowledgeable staff waiting to suggest pairings. Don’t forget to stop for an after-dinner cocktail at Floor 24 at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

Sometimes when visiting a place that already has frills like a waterfront view, the food tends to be just so-so. They don’t have to try as hard because crowds will continue to visit if the place has a good view. The Atmosphere overdid itself with this dining experience. Not only do you get incredible views being on the 122nd floor of the world’s tallest building, but there are incredible crepes, egg dishes with freshly shaved truffles, towers of fresh cheeses, meats, fruit and fresh-squeezed juices like mango and orange to choose from. Finish the meal with a golden coffee because everything in Dubai is coated in gold.

atmosphereburjkhalifa.com

[See more: The 13 Best Restaurants in Dubai]

Cocktails at Nobu and Dinner at Ossiano

Chef Gregoire Berger shares his passion for food, art and flavors at Ossiano / ©Jessica Kelly

Nobu is a great spot within Atlantis to grab a drink before dinner and deserved a special mention in our travel guide to Dubai. It’s the perfect place to try out a new sake or a refreshing lychee martini. After drinks at Nobu, check in at Ossiano . The gourmet eatery is surrounded by tanks filled with 65,000 marine animals. Guests are dining, sipping their espresso martinis while watching the fish swim gracefully by. Throughout this experience, chef Gregoire Berger shares his passion for food, art and flavors he’s picked up through personal experiences, each dish coming with its own story.

Burj Khalifa

As far as activities go, our travel guide to Dubai would not be complete without mentioning Burj Khalifa. A staple in the skyline, the building reaches over 2716 feet and has 160 stories. It holds multiple world records including the tallest building in the world, having the highest number of stories in the world, having the highest outdoor observation deck in the world, and having the tallest service elevator in the world, among others.

burjkhalifa.ae

Aura Skypool

Aura Skypool is the world’s tallest 360-degree infinity pool, with incredible views of the palm, the gulf, the skyline, and more. You can rent a chair and relax by the water. Take a dip while waiting for your fresh coconut water to be delivered to you in the sun. Don’t forget to order some delicious sushi or a refreshing cocktail at the onsite restaurant. They’re almost too pretty to drink. Almost.

auraskypool.com

Balloon Adventures Dubai

Taking a hot air balloon ride over the desert during sunrise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience / ©Jessica Kelly

Taking a hot air balloon ride over the desert during sunrise is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one that we simply had to include in our luxury travel guide to Dubai. The ride is so peaceful and calm, riders barely even feel any movement. With other balloons floating by in the distance, riders will get to watch the sunrise over the desert from a bird’s eye view. The company is Dubai’s longest operating hot air balloon company with seasoned, professional pilots to safely lead the tour. When the balloon lands, vintage Land Rovers will bring guests to an extensive breakfast filled with local favorites.

balloon-adventures.com

Camel Rides

The camels take riders for a short walk around the desert after the hotel air balloon ride / ©Jessica Kelly

After breakfast mentioned above, as part of the Balloon Adventures experience, guests will have the opportunity to ride a camel. The camels will take riders for a short walk around the desert, only about 3 to 5 minutes or so, in between getting food at the camp, so guests can experience what it’s like before hopping back in the colorful Land Rovers.

[See more: The 9 Best Things to do at Night in Dubai]

Jessica Kelly

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The ultimate Dubai travel guide

The duty-free zone of Dubai is a shopper's paradise, offering some of the most lavish malls on earth, as well as super-luxury hotels and miles of pristine beach.

Where to stay in Dubai

Mandarin oriental jumeira, dubai.

Mandarin Oriental did its homework when launching in the Middle East in 2019. The Asian heavyweight's ornate urban low-rise is spread across a prime patch of affluent Jumeira. It's not the first luxury name to stake a claim here – Four Seasons and Bulgari are nearby – but it is one of the latest, and, in Dubai , that matters. It means that a Prada-draped mix of locals and expats are elbowing for tables at the sunlight Noor lounge in the evening before sharing plates of Wagyu at Japanese steakhouse Netsu (all after perfecting their poses between the lobby’s Forest of Lights, an avenue of bronze trees bearing 900 leaf-shaped crystal lights). Neat rows of palms continue the eye-line beyond the glass rear wall to the beachfront terrace and pools. The architectural symmetry is signature Jeffrey A Wilkes, the interior designer who owns the landmark hotel game – his other projects include The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok and Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai.

The friendly door staff are dashing in their bright blue frock coats and fedoras, ushering guests towards the highlights including the Mediterranean-inspired Tasca. Superstar Portuguese chef José Avillez has brought some of the aces from his Michelin-starred spot in Lisbon here, including the ecstatically creamy avocado tempura, while edible cocktails crunch with wedges of green apple infused with spearmint Margarita mix. Every time a hotel gets added to Dubai , the glitz goes up a notch. Mandarin manages to add the right amount of dazzle without going too far over the top. £££ (00 971 4 777 2222; mandarinoriental.com ).

To find out more and check availability, now go to Mandarin Oriental Dubai hotel review

AL MAHA RESORT

Forty five minutes from Dubai, the exclusive Al Maha resort is a desert haven set within a conservation reserve. Each of the Bedouin-style suites, grouped into Emirates, Royal and Bedouin Suites, has its own private swimming pool and activities include falconry, wildlife tours and horse-riding. Guests can dine in the relaxed Al Diwaan restaurant, or on the private decks of the guest suites. ££££ (00 971 4 343 9595; al-maha.com ).

BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA

Fifty kilometres away from the colossal resort of Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah International has opened a sister hotel, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa. A tasteful Arab-style spa retreat, with 115 rooms and suites, offering camel rides and dune-bashing, and the region's first open-air desert restaurant, Al Hadheerah. The Satori Spa has an extensive range of treatments. ££ (00 971 4 832 6699; jumeirahbabalshams.com ).

BURJ AL ARAB

Burj Al Arab, meaning The Arabian Tower, is located within a magnificent glass sail-shaped building rising from the waters of the Arabian Gulf, about 280m offshore from Jumeirah Beach. Now a Dubai landmark, the hotel has 202 suites, each one with a private butler and arranged over 2 floors, and an 'underwater-experience' signature restaurant, Al Mahara. The Assawan Spa & Health Club is located on the 18th floor of the hotel. (00 971 4 301 7777, burj-al-arab.com ).

GROSVENOR HOUSE

Grosvenor House, the first Marina hotel, is already filled with visitors happy to forego beach frontage (although there is an outdoor pool). The 45-storey hotel, with 217 sea-facing, butler-serviced rooms, gleams with polished stone and bespoke lighting. The foyer sets the exaggerated Art Deco tone with vast stone columns and cream-leather club chairs. Bedrooms, while as sleek and thoughtfully furnished as the rest of the hotel, are not the real draw. This is a drinks and dinner destination, from the plushly decadent Buddha Bar, which follows the successful Parisian format, to Bar 44, which encircles the 44th floor and is packed nightly with media types lounging in pony-skin chairs. The hotel's signature restaurant, Mezzanine, has white-leather padded walls punctuated with acid green Perspex screens and burnt-orange velvet chairs, a stylish backdrop to the inspired British menu of chef Gary Robinson (lately Prince Charles's private chef). Jet Set is a kitsch, airline-themed salon offering Short Haul and Long Haul wash and blow-dries. There is also a spa retreat. ££ Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE (00 971 4 399 8888; grosvenorhouse-dubai.com ).

HYATT REGENCY

Located on the Deira Corniche, the Hyatt Regency is close to Dubai Creek Golf Club and the Deira Centre. It has 414 rooms and suites which offer stunning views across the Arabian Gulf, and a revolving rooftop restaurant, Al Dawaar, which is located on the 25th floor and has spectacular sea views. ££ (00 971 4 209 1234; dubai.regency.hyatt.com ).

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL

All 598 rooms at Jumeirah Beach Hotel have sea views and floor-to-ceiling windows, and some have private balconies. The hotel also boasts a private beach, the luxurious 19-villa Beit Al Bahar, a PADI National Geographic Dive Centre, luxury yacht charters and mooring for up to 50 yachts. ££££ (00 971 4 3480000; jumeirahbeachhotel.com ).

MADINAT JUMEIRAH

Al Qasr, Mina A'Salam and Dar Al Masyaf, two 292-room hotels, and 29 detached courtyard summerhouses respectively, form part of the sprawling resort of Madinat Jumeirah, which has Mina A' Salam hotel at one end, the Six Senses Spa at the other, and a man-made waterway, an undulating swimming pool, restaurant terraces and the Souk shopping area in between. Al Qasr is the resort's polished and tasselled centerpiece. Forget less-is-more: this is unashamedly more, more, more, but with enough attention to detail - the amber-and-ochre heavy silks and damasks in the bedrooms, wood-panelled baths, antique rugs on the corridor walls - to carry it off with panache. Restaurants include Al Hambra for tapas, where the chef is from Michelin-starred El Bulli in Spain; Six Senses Spa and Carita salon offer pampering of the highest order. ££££ (00 971 4 3668888; jumeirahinternational.com ).

METROPOLITAN CLUB

Also on Jumeirah Beach is the Metropolitan Resort and Beach Club Features Andalucian-style architecture, landscaped gardens, a private beach, swimming pool, tennis and squash courts and water sports facilities. There are 80 rooms and 14 suites. L'Orangerie serves international cuisine, Luciano's Italian and Al Basha Lebanese. ££ (00 971 4 399 5000; metropolitanhoteldubai.com ).

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ONE&ONLY ROYAL MIRAGE

Dubai likes a superlative. It has the world’s tallest building and the world’s largest shopping mall. And inside this shopping mall is an actual indoor ski resort. And an aquarium (the world’s second largest). But it hasn’t always been like this. The Royal Mirage was the first hotel to arrive on Jumeirah Beach back in 1998, a trailblazer in an undeveloped desert town. Now buildings have shot up everywhere but, with 26 hectares of gardens, it maintains a surprising sense of space. The hotel is a super-scale Middle Eastern fantasia of intricately carved wood, elaborate terracotta tiles and gleaming marble. There are three sections – the Arabian Court, members’-club-style Residences and the family-friendly Palace where the KidsOnly club, with everything from belly dancing to sand sculpting, is part of the deal. Four- to 11-year-olds will show up parents with a roll call of Arabic phrases, while teens will be learning to water-ski and windsurf from the private beach. Federer and Djokovic have both stayed, which is a seal of approval for the floodlit tennis courts (too hot to play during the day). It’s easy to stay put for the entire holiday. There are eight restaurants, from pizzas and pasta at Olive and just-caught lobster at the beach bar to the Jetty Lounge for a mint Mojito and a view of the Palm Islands. But do get out to see one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Taking a sea plane up the coast towards the landmark Burj Khalifa tower is a fascinating lesson in how quickly sand turns to skyscraper. Stay in the Beach Garden Villa. It’s the only private house at the hotel, sleeps six and has its own pool, so you can dip in and out of the action. £££ Jumeirah Beach Road (00 971 4 399 9999; oneandonlyresorts.com ).

ONE&ONLY THE PALM RESORT

There are not one but two stonking One&Only hotels to choose from in Dubai just a five-minute boat ride apart. While the One&Only Royal Mirage is more obviously family-focused, One&Only The Palm , on the outer leafy bit of the man-made island Palm Jumeirah, which only started being built in 2001, is just too smart to resist: a low-rise village of creamy, Alhambra-esque buildings. This is Dubai, served up hot, hassle-free and enormously child-friendly with its water parks and malls, desert escapades and indoor ski domes. Of course, there's plenty to keep them entertained at the hotel too. The kids' club has a jam-packed itinerary of destination-appropriate fun and games from camel riding and belly dancing to henna painting and basic Arabic lessons.

There are even desert camp-outs, but it's more comfortable (and less sandy) getting into pyjamas in one of the Moorish-style two-bedroom waterfront villas. These vast houses have terraces that lead straight onto the pristine white beach, and their own pools (big enough for lots of jumping in). Interiors are ultra elegant with light bouncing off shiny marble, latticework detail and horseshoe arches. The can-do staff are incredibly speedy when it comes to requests such as heating puree or locating a tiny pair of sunglasses abandoned at the bottom of the pool. Plenty of guests get dressed up for supper, but no one frowns at the younger mob propping up the table - though after a day of full-throttle excitement they might just be too wiped out to join you. Make a beeline for the massive spa, recently taken over by Guerlain: the treatment rooms have gorgeous private gardens from which you can just see the skyscraper tips on the horizon. £££ (00 971 4 399 9999; oneandonlyresorts.com )

RITZ CARLTON

Situated on Jumeirah Beach, The Ritz-Carlton is Dubai's answer to Beverly Hills. It has a private beach and three swimming pools, plus a French seafood restaurant and a cigar bar. Some of the 138 rooms and suites include steam showers and all rooms overlook the pool and garden area with private balcony or patio. There is also a Balinese spa. (00 971 4 399 4000; ( ritzcarlton.com ).

SHERATON DUBAI CREEK HOTEL AND TOWERS

Perhaps outclassed by its newer sister hotel in Deira, the rather cubic Sheraton Dubai scores with its plum Creekside location next to the yacht club, 800 yards from the souk area. It boasts 255 rooms and a choice of restaurants, including Vivaldi, an Italian restaurant and Ashiana, which serves Indian food. ££ Baniyas Street (Creek Road), (00 971 4 228 1111; starwoodhotels.com ).

Where to eat out in Dubai

Burj al arab.

Chic showcase for simple Arabic dishes with a strong Moroccan accent. Part of the Burj Al Arab Hotel, with an attentive, helpful front-of-house staff, the Al Iwan is perhaps more popular with visitors than locals, but remains one of Dubai's finest culinary treats. The Al Muntaha, up on the top floor of the hotel, probably just pips the Al Iwan by dint of those incredible views, but its mod Med menu, fine as it is, doesn't offer the full Dubai experience. If you're only having one meal in the hotel, compromise with pre/post cocktails in the bar here, before heading back downstairs to the Al Iwan. (00 971 4 301 7600; burj-al-arab.com/dining/al_iwan )

Al Dhiyafha Road

A busy Lebanese shawarma house in the Satwa district. Terrific, tasty street food for a few pounds. If the day is cool enough, sit at a pavement table and watch the traffic flow past like a lazy river. The delicious juices and fruit cocktails are served in old-style, dimpled pint mugs. (00 971 4 398 4723)

Cruise the creek through the centre of Dubai aboard the 56-metre Al Minsaf. Go for lunch, sunset cocktails or dinner - or simply throw a private party for 400 of your closest friends. (00 971 4 315 47 77; bateauxdubai.com )

BASTA ART CAFÉ

This café is the best thing in Bastakia, the 'old quarter' of Bur Dubai. Sip iced tea with mint, or enjoy a salad in the quiet courtyard under the gnarled old tree. It's shady, child-friendly and a great spot to sit with a book during the heat of the day. Al Fahidi Street (00 971 4 353 5071)

Despite the name, this is more jazz than blues; you can survey the scene from a high stool or chill out on one of the squashy couches. Belgian beer is the drink of choice. Open 2pm to 3am. Novotel World Trade Centre, Zabeel Road 2nd (00 971 4 332 0000, novotel-dubai-world-trade-centre.com /)

Oddly enough, Dubai has only one restaurant on the creek, the Boardwalk. For a view across the water and the delightful sensation of being over it, this restaurant on stilts is unbeatable. But for everything else, food, ambience and clientele, it is disappointing. Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club (00 971 4 295 6000; dubaigolf.com )

CELEBRITIES

Don't be put off by that slightly naff moniker; this is a stylish Arabic honey-pot, spicy and perky, with fine views of Dubai. Good value too (no mean feat in this city of notoriously over-priced hotel dining rooms): try the seven-course tasting menu for a guided tour of the kitchen's myriad specialities. One&Only Royal Mirage (00 971 4 399 9999; oneandonlyresorts.com )

The plush, pampered surrounds of Cigar Bar, with the scent of Montecristo and Cohiba hanging in the air, make it a popular after-dinner haunt which provides a welcome refuge from the desert heat. Open 6pm to 2am. Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road (00 971 4 332 5555, fairmont.com )

Sophisticated fusion restaurant that's part of the One&Only Royal Mirage. Have lunch by the beach or dinner by the pool. Try hamour, a local fish that looks like a wide-hipped cod, or salmon with wasabi mash. Starters include Thai coconut chicken soup and open crispy wontons with octopus salad. Arabian Court (00 971 4 399 9999, oneandonlyresorts.com )

Modish designer café, perfect for leisurely (and nicely authentic) tapas nibbling, or espresso pick-me-up. Bur Dubai (00 971 4 324 4252)

This is a lively Thai restaurant offering gallons of cocktails and a resident DJ. It has the food (try the shark fillet wrapped in betel leaf) and mood (low-key music) exactly right. Open noon to 3pm, 7pm to 3am. Ground Floor, Convention Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road (00 971 4 329 3200)

Accessed via the beach in front of Al Qasr, the 'palace' at the heart of the Madinat Jumeirah resort, Pierchic is accessed via a 5-minute stroll along the wood bedecked pier, where you will find a bar and restaurant which is one of Dubai's most unique culinary hotspots. Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah (00 971 4 366 6730)

RAVI'S

Proper curry, near Al Mallah. Specialises in North Indian dishes and caters to the large expat community from the Indian subcontinent. Satwa High Stret (00 971 4 331 5353)

Securing a weekend reservation here is one of Dubai's greatest culinary challenges. The offerings are rare for this city: excellent Japanese food that is also reasonably priced. The sushi, teriyaki and tempura are carefully prepared and simply presented. Fish tanks built into the walls create an interesting atmosphere. Be warned: from about 10pm the noise level starts to rise, with a young and beautiful crowd pouring in for the sake and cocktails. If you want an intimate evening, get here early. Open from 7.00pm to 2.30am. Dubai Marine Beach Resort (00 971 4 346 1111; dxbmarine.com )

Tucked away in the Royal Mirage hotel on Jumeirah beach, Tagine is well worth the small trek out of the city centre. The restaurant's sumptuous Moroccan decor (huge candles, harem-style rugs and lanterns) and North African cooking make it a good choice for a lively evening (there is live music too). The bathrooms are gorgeous. One&Only Royal Mirage (00 971 4 399 9999; oneandonlyresorts.com )

THE GLASSHOUSE

The three-course set brunch is pretty good, and includes everything from pan-fried snapper to Cumberland sausages. But the food is secondary to the promise of unlimited champagne from noon till 3pm. Also a good choice for a business lunch. Hilton Dubai Creek (00 971 4 212 7550, www3.hilton.com )

THE MEAT COMPANY

Located on the sea front of the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, this restaurant, taking its cue from its name, is particularly good for steaks, and has a comprehensive selection of wines. Shop 148 Souk Madinat, Jumeirah (00 971 4 368 6040; themeatcompany.co.za )

THE THAI KITCHEN

Sit around the kitchens and watch the chefs prepare excellent Thai cuisine. Dishes are served in a variety of small cups, plates and saucers, perfect for sharing. Alfresco dining is available in the covered terrace. (00 971 4 602 1234; dubai.park.hyatt.com )

ZHENG HE'S

Truly fabulous Chinese food, the best dim sum you'll eat in Dubai. Be sure to try the black pepper beef. Madinat Jumeirah (00 971 4 366 6730, jumeirah.com )

The best nightlife in Dubai

Considered the coolest venue in town by long-term expats, who drink away their tax-free earnings under the impressive gaze of the gargantuan Buddha. Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina (00 971 4 399 8888, buddhabar-dubai.com )

Lovely spot in the Al Qars. Sit at the granite bar and chat to the friendly Jordanian staff, or take a drink out on the terrace, settle into the cushions and kilims and watch the sun sink slowly into the sea. Madinat Jumeirah (00 971 4 366 8888, jumeirah.com )

SKYVIEW BAR

It is quite difficult to get past the doormen at the Burj Al Arab, so this bar at the very pinnacle of the great sail may be the most exclusive spot in all Dubai. On a clear day you can see all the way to the Creek, you can gaze at the desert beyond the city, and you can look down on the islands of the Palm development as they take shape out to sea. Reservations essential. Burj Al Arab (00 971 4 301 7600, jumeirah.com )

VU'S BAR

Up on the 51st floor of the Jumeirah Emirates Towers is this hyper-chic bar. The ride up in the glass lift is intoxicating, and the prices will set you reeling, so you'll feel tipsy before you even touch a drop. The views across the city are stunning. Jumeirah Emirates Towers (00 971 4 319 8088)

Things to do in Dubai

As well as the obvious shopping opportunities, there are some fantastic boat trips to be had in Dubai, along the Creek which divides the city.

DUBAI MUSEUM

Housed within the beautifully restored Al Fahidi Fort, which was erected around 1787 to defend the city against invasion, the museum's diverse collection of exhibits offers a fascinating insight into its history and cultural heritage. Renovated in 1971 for use as museum. Open Sat to Thurs, from 8:30am to 7:30pm, and Fri from 2pm to 7:30pm. Al Fahidi Street (00 971 4 353 1862)

Behind the Great Mosque in Bur Dubai is this narrow alley of tiny shops selling Hindu paraphernalia, such as gaudy pictures of blue baby Krishnas. At the end of Hindi Lane is the delightful textile souk, where wholesalers hang pashminas and sari silks on the wooden shutters.

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE

It's the only mosque in Dubai open to non-Muslims. The interior is serene. Take a guided tour, then reflect at the nearby Lime Tree Café (00 971 4 349 8498).

The Mall of the Emirates has a dry ski slope, a vast edifice that is, in effect, a giant fridge with a plastic mountain inside. There are sledges and ice slides for kids, and some challenging pistes for grown-ups. Quite bizarre. ( malloftheemirates.com )

THE HERITAGE AND DIVING VILLAGE

Recreates life in pre-oil Dubai. (00 971 4 3937151)

How to get to Dubai

Flights go direct to Dubai airport.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

British Airways (0870 850 9850; ba.com ) flies from Heathrow to Dubai. Emirates (0870 243 222; emirates.com ) flies from Gatwick and Heathrow to Dubai, and from Manchester.

Tour operator details for Dubai

The following organise trips to Dubai; Azure (01244 322770; azurecollection.com ); Carrier (0161 491; carrier.co.uk ); Elegant Resorts (01244 897 888; elegantresorts.co.uk ); ITC Classics (01244 355 320; itcclassics.com ); Kuoni (01306 743 000; kuoni.co.uk ); Seasons in Style (01244 202 000; seasonsinstyle.co.uk ).

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The UAE’s Next Big Luxury Travel Destination

Raki phillips, ceo of ras al khaimah tourism development authority, talks about the hospitality boom in the middle east—and the evolution of ras al khaimah into a luxury travel destination..

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The Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort

Courtesy of Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort

Without a doubt, the Middle East is one of the world’s fastest-evolving regions for hospitality development, with $1.9 trillion pouring into such destinations as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. Few people have a front-row seat to the future of tourism in the region like Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) in the UAE’s Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), the fourth largest emirate.

During more than two decades of working with hotel brands including Ritz-Carlton and Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, Phillips has seen tremendous change in the Middle East’s hospitality scene. His role as CEO of RAKTDA, which he’s held since 2019, includes destination marketing with a focus on holistic growth strategies that prioritize sustainability, community engagement, and cultural authenticity.

Under Phillips’ guidance, Ras Al Khaimah, a 45-minute drive from Dubai, has grown from a small fishing village to a premier tourist destination in its own right, thanks in large part to such notable new resorts as Anantara Mina Al Arab and the refurbishment of the Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah . Future projects set to further elevate the destination’s profile include a Wynn resort, a Nobu hotel and restaurant, and Marriott’s design-driven W hotel brand , which is in the middle of a renaissance.

AFAR caught up with Phillips to talk about redefining Ras Al Khaimah’s hospitality landscape, wider plans for the Middle East and Africa, and the challenges and opportunities in travel that lie ahead.

This interview was edited for clarity and space.

Raki Phillips is the CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.

Courtesy of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority

Describe your role with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.

Together with my team, we orchestrate the growth of Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism infrastructure and sustainability investments. Our overarching vision is to transform the emirate into a destination of the future, aiming to elevate its tourism contribution from 5 percent to one-third of its economy by 2030, attracting over 3.5 million visitors.

My responsibilities include a range of activities, from overseeing infrastructure and project development to negotiating international partnerships aimed at boosting inbound passenger traffic. I am particularly proud of our achievements in securing significant investments, such as the $3.9 billion (USD) deal with Wynn Resorts to develop a 1,500-plus-room integrated resort on Al Marjan Island.

Can you tell us about the new hotel openings in RAK?

Ras Al Khaimah is the fastest-growing tourism destination in the region. Our emirate has luxurious beachfront resorts, charming glamping options, and serene desert and mountain retreats. Currently, we have an impressive portfolio of 50 properties, with more than 8,000 rooms available for guests, and an additional 7,000 plus hotel rooms in development.

Our hospitality offering includes globally recognized brands such as Waldorf Astoria, Hilton, InterContinental, Ritz-Carlton, and Mövenpick. Recent openings like the Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort, offering ultra-luxurious Maldivian-style overwater villas, have been met with enthusiasm, and we have several exciting new projects in the pipeline, including Sofitel, Westin, Rove, Nobu, JW Marriott, W Hotels, and Nikki Beach. One of our most anticipated developments is the Wynn Al Marjan Island, set to debut in 2027 with more than 1,500 guest rooms, suites, and villas.

What sets us apart is not just our accommodation options, but also the diverse dining scene across our hotel portfolio, which ranges from traditional to contemporary cuisine. These include Umi, a theatrical showcase of Japanese food at the Waldorf Astoria, and Farmhouse, a farm-to-table concept located in a natural oasis on the grounds of the Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert.

The Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah

Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah

What are your thoughts on the future of hotels and hospitality in the Middle East?

The year 2024 will be a transformative one for the Middle East hospitality sector as it adapts to new trends and shifts in consumer behavior—a year marked by technology, sustainability commitments, personalization, authenticity, and wellness.

From contactless check-ins to AI-powered room service and personalized digital concierge services, hotels are leveraging technology to enhance customer service and operational efficiency. Virtual reality tours and mobile apps for room control are becoming popular, offering guests a seamless and personalized experience.

Sustainability is another critical aspect influencing the future of hospitality in this region. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, hotels are implementing green initiatives such as waste-reduction programs, renewable energy usage, and sourcing local produce. The emphasis on sustainability is also reflected in the design and construction of new hotels, with eco-friendly materials and technologies being increasingly adopted. Aligning with global standards, we are proud to be the first EarthCheck-certified destination in the Middle East.

We are seeing a rise in momentum in Mideast hospitality—why do you think the region is breaking ground these days?

In the past few years, there has been a concerted effort by Middle East countries to promote tourism on a global scale via a mix of strategies, including creative marketing campaigns and hosting international events. As we have seen from Dubai Expo 2020 and 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, such global events have become catalysts for driving tourism and hospitality growth in the region.

The Middle East is seeing a growing number of high-net-worth visitors and luxury travelers from all over the world. There is a strong demand for premium hospitality experiences, including luxury resorts, high-end dining, and exclusive entertainment.

Moreover, the region’s strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa makes it a geographically convenient hub for international travel and transit. Countries like the UAE have positioned themselves as global aviation and transportation hubs, attracting travelers from around the world and therefore increasing the demand for hospitality services. With a growing network powered by partnerships with leading airlines, and an extensive array of hospitality and hotel offerings, Ras Al Khaimah’s unconventional experiences help position it as one of the fastest-growing destinations in the region.

Suwaidi Pearl Farm is located in the fishing village of Al Rams.

How would you define Arabian hospitality?

Arabian hospitality is a cherished cultural tradition deeply rooted in valuing the well-being and comfort of guests, ensuring they feel welcomed, respected, and cherished. It epitomizes the generosity and kindness inherent in Arab societies, fostering tightly knit communities and shaping meaningful interactions. In Ras Al Khaimah, we prioritize creating enriching cultural exchanges for guests by offering diverse experiences deeply intertwined with local traditions and heritage.

Ras Al Khaimah’s rich history spanning 7,000 years reflects the authentic Arabian identity and hospitality of the destination. For instance, visitors can experience an immersive journey to Suwaidi Pearls, the only pearl farm in the UAE, where they discover the fascinating history of pearl diving and witness live oyster-opening demonstrations.

Could you share an anecdote or career highlight?

Reflecting on some of my career highlights, the journey of achieving a record-breaking annual visitor count of 1.22 million in 2023 in Ras Al Khaimah stands out. This milestone symbolized the collective dedication, resilience, and hard work of our entire team and the broader Ras Al Khaimah tourism community, showcasing our agility and collective resolve to enhance our destination offering in ways that deeply resonate with our visitors.

Leading a diverse and talented multicultural workforce of 80 employees from 24 countries, I am proud that RAKTDA was honored as one of the top places to work in the Middle East for the third consecutive year, and we ranked fourth in Best Workplaces in the Public Sector in 2023. Being recognized affirmed our commitment not just to our external stakeholders and visitors but equally to our internal team, whose well-being and satisfaction are paramount to our success.

Equally significant was securing the $3.9 billion deal with Wynn Resorts—the largest-of-its-kind foreign direct investment in the region. This collaborative achievement was not just a win for RAKTDA but for the entire Emirate, marking a significant milestone in our journey toward economic diversification and sustainable tourism development. It exemplified our ability to work synergistically toward a common vision, attracting world-class investments that contribute to the emirate’s growth and global standing.

Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort is surrounded by mangroves.

Courtesy of Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort

It’s National Arab American Heritage Month in the United States. How has your Arab American identity influenced your career?

Growing up as an Arab American, with a Lebanese Argentinian mother and an American father, I was immersed in a rich tapestry of cultural experiences from an early age. Be it through food culture, celebrating both Thanksgiving and Eid, or by traveling a lot with my family, my upbringing was a vibrant blend of traditions that spanned continents. This multinational background, coupled with the privilege of growing up in Orlando and attending high school in Kuwait, exposed me to the world’s diversity and the universal values of hospitality and connection. It was this exposure to different cultures and traditions that honed my appreciation for hospitality and travel, which has been instrumental in my career.

My journey to Ras Al Khaimah was not just a professional decision, but also a personal calling. Drawing on my diverse heritage, I saw in Ras Al Khaimah a reflection of the values I hold dear: a deep respect for heritage and a forward-looking vision for innovation and growth. The UAE, known globally as a beacon for exceptional hospitality, felt like the perfect place to continue my journey, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity that resonated with my own multicultural identity.

My decision to lead RAKTDA was inspired by my lifelong exposure to different cultures and the desire to bring to light the emirate’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. It was here, in Ras Al Khaimah, that I found a destination that echoes my personal journey of bridging worlds, celebrating diversity, and creating connections. This journey, from the multicultural celebrations of my childhood to the strategic vision for RAKTDA, has been fueled by the belief in the power of travel to unite us across cultures and borders.

Tell us what you love about travel and hospitality—and what you would like to improve?

What I love most about travel and hospitality is the power it has to connect people, bridge cultural divides, and foster understanding and appreciation for the diversity of our world. Travel opens our minds to new ideas, challenges our perceptions, and enriches our lives in countless ways. In the realm of hospitality, the opportunity to create moments of joy and comfort for others is deeply rewarding.

However, one area I believe the industry can improve is in sustainability. As we move forward, it’s imperative that we adopt more sustainable practices to protect the destinations we cherish for future generations. This means minimizing our environmental impact and ensuring that tourism benefits local communities and preserves cultural heritage.

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