Dubai is a captivating luxury destination that few travelers have the opportunity to explore. For those lucky enough to visit—and for the insatiably curious—our handpicked selection of the five best hotels in Dubai will help you discover some of the most exclusive accommodations in the world. From visionary designs like the Floating Retreat to architectural icons such as Burj Al Arab, and from the tranquil luxury of the Bulgari Resort to the authentic Bedouin experiences at Al Maha.
Dubai’s hoteliers seem determined to create some of the world’s most unique travel experiences. A recent study highlights efforts by several developers to craft the most unusual luxury stays you’ll find here. The new “Floating Retreat” resort in the UAE will boast a collection of tents suspended 100 meters above the ground. Designed for the UAE’s Sharjah mountains, up to ten canopies will stretch between rugged peaks.
The so-called Floating Retreat is a project from Dubai-based Ardh Architects. Picture luxury hotel suites floating off a mountainside: guests enjoy room service, entertainment, and WiFi via tablet and earbuds. Each tent features a private bathroom and access to a five-star spa atop the mountain, while reception, concierge, restaurant, and private guided hikes are available at the base.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Architecturally, the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah stands as Dubai’s most eye-catching building. As Travel Awaits puts it: “Without question, Burj Al Arab is Dubai’s iconic hotel. Located on its own private island, this stunning sail-shaped hotel is renowned for its opulence. If it looks gold, it probably is—there’s even a dazzling ceiling at the main restaurant adorned with more Swarovski crystals than anywhere else in the world, and the lobby boasts an 18-story, 590-foot high atrium complete with fountains and aquariums. Everything in this hotel is jaw-dropping.”
In a city where hotels compete for the title of world’s best, Burj Al Arab is consistently at the top. Travel & Leisure notes: “Widely considered Dubai’s most iconic hotel—an unmistakable piece of the city’s skyline—the Burj Al Arab delivers Arabian elegance and spectacular Gulf views. Perched on an artificial island off Dubai’s coast, all rooms offer floor-to-ceiling views over the Arabian Gulf. Guests can soak up the sun at The Terrace’s temperature-controlled infinity pool or at the sophisticated Summersalt Beach Club at sister property Jumeirah Al Naseem.”
Some call it the world’s finest hotel. The Telegraph explains: “Dubbed the world’s only seven-star hotel for its unrivaled luxury, this gleaming white landmark comes with a fleet of matching Rolls-Royce Phantoms and opulent duplex suites throughout. Bathrooms are stocked with Hermès amenities, and the poolside cabanas feature widescreen TVs and air conditioning.”
Bulgari Resort and Residences Dubai
Set on a prime waterfront spot, the Bulgari Resort raises the bar for luxury. Forbes Travel Guide describes: “Crossing the 980-foot bridge to reach the seahorse-shaped island of Jumeirah Bay, you feel a world away from Dubai’s bustle, stepping into a haven where Arabescato marble glows under coral-inspired brise-soleil. Bulgari Resort and Residences Dubai is a jewel for your Italian beach-holiday dreams, with sweeping vistas of the Arabian Gulf.”
Offering a true island resort vibe in the desert is no small feat. As Forbes puts it: “Located offshore on a seahorse-shaped island by Jumeirah, Bulgari Resort Dubai marries European glamour and Middle Eastern tradition. Coral canopies reflect the region’s mashrabiya patterns, while the Italian luxury is evident throughout. Polished Bulgari marble, black granite, and floor-to-ceiling windows frame the turquoise sea. The jewel-like spa boasts multiple pools, including a vitality pool inspired by ancient Roman baths.”
It’s viewed as a luxury oasis where guests can escape Dubai’s urban pace. Condé Nast Traveler notes: “What makes this Bulgari one-of-a-kind is its seahorse-shaped artificial island and a low-rise design—a refreshing change from Dubai’s skyscrapers. Credit goes to the Milan-based architects, who anchored the hotel to separate two bays: one a serene beach flanked by villas, the other a sleek marina with restaurants and the first-ever Bulgari Yacht Club.”
Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa
Al Maha transports guests to a place beyond time, offering contemporary luxury combined with authentic Bedouin culture. The Luxury Travel Expert describes: “Set among lush palms, emerald canopies, and the iconic dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve—abundant with desert wildlife—Al Maha offers secluded tranquility and sweeping vistas of the endless plains and Hajar Mountains. Showcasing Bedouin heritage and a sense of desert adventure, suites—resembling Bedouin tents—are spaced apart, blending naturally into the landscape.”
World Travel Magazine notes: “Al Maha stands out with breathtaking views over vast sandy plains and the Hajar range. The resort’s suites, inspired by traditional Bedouin tents, seamlessly merge with the desert. For the ultimate glamping experience, each suite boasts its own private infinity pool.”
Jetsetter points out that while the resort brings true desert encampment ambience, its amenities are thoroughly plush: “If you’ve ever dreamed of spending a night among the dunes in a Bedouin camp, you can’t do better than Al Maha. Think Burj al Arab of the desert: 42 air-conditioned tent-style suites are filled with Arab antiques, minibars, sun decks with private infinity pools, and face the red dunes of Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve—a sanctuary for oryx, camels, and gazelles.”
Mandarin Oriental
World-class dining is the highlight at the renowned Mandarin Oriental. As The Telegraph explains: “Michelin-starred cuisine from Dubai’s most renowned Portuguese chef, five stunning pools, a private beach, a luxury spa, and Dubai’s first Outrace gym—all make this flagship property stand out in the UAE. Supplying Natura Bissé amenities for the bathrooms is a thoughtful touch.”
Travel Awaits adds: “The Mandarin Oriental’s international reputation precedes it, and the Dubai property does not disappoint. Located on a private beach, rooms offer views of either the Arabian Gulf or Dubai’s jaw-dropping skyline. The experience is magical from the elegantly modern lobby with metallic ‘tree’ sculptures, to the five palm-fringed outdoor pools—welcomed by staff in blue fedoras and tailcoats, and passing through teak walkways and bridges.”
Forbes further notes the hotel’s grandeur: “Magnificent yet inviting, the Mandarin Oriental’s atmosphere suits its seafront setting perfectly. The hotel’s 178 rooms and 78 suites are spacious, but the villas are the true showstoppers, with vibrant tiled roofs rising above the skyline. Six top restaurants, a tranquil spa, and a palm-shaded pool make this a prime retreat at the city’s heart.”
Palazzo Versace
Palazzo Versace offers a taste of Italian-inspired sophistication. As The Luxury Editor notes: “Located in the heart of Culture Village and just 8 minutes from Downtown Dubai, the hotel’s interiors are custom-designed by the House of Versace. Its 215 rooms and suites—and 169 residences—are all fitted with tailored Italian furnishings. With eight elegant restaurants boasting outdoor terraces and three mosaic-tiled pools, this hotel is a dining and relaxation haven.”
This “Palazzo” truly lives up to its majestic promise. The Telegraph explains: “Just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport, this palace at Jaddaf Waterfront is perfectly positioned for brief stays—Bentley transfers add to the convenience. Italian decor, framed fashion sketches, and Versace’s trademark motifs set the scene. Poolside dining at La Piscina is the ultimate finishing touch.”
The Palazzo Versace experience begins as soon as you land. Travel Awaits writes: “After your private Bentley picks you up from the airport and the iconic gold, spiral Versace decor (with Medusa heads everywhere, even in the pool) greets you, you’ll appreciate this hotel’s unique setting. Rather than on the Arabian Gulf, Palazzo Versace overlooks Dubai Creek—a manmade waterway winding through the city, lined with landmarks and with the flamingo-filled Ras Al Khor Nature Reserve right at your doorstep.”
