A dazzling metropolis of gravity-defying skyscrapers, endless sand dunes and shimmering shorelines, the most glamorous Dubai resorts are as varied as they are opulent.
Enhanced by the city’s ever-present sunshine and kaleidoscope of landscapes (think artificial ski slopes and white-sand beaches on a background of golden desert), a luxury resort stay in Dubai guarantees an unforgettable escape. Here’s our pick of Dubai’s most glamorous resorts.
Ritz-Carlton Dubai, Beach Resort
The iconic Mediterranean-inspired The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai Beach Resort boasts unrivalled opulent glamour. Located on a private beach, this secluded resort offers a slice of serenity mere steps from the popular Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence. Emulating Aegean style throughout, this low-rise sea-facing palace showcases a blend of traditional Arabian hospitality and show-stopping facilities to create an elevated guest experience.
Indulge in sumptuous culinary experiences as you eat your way around the globe at the resort’s 10 eateries, featuring everything from poolside light bites to Italian fine dining and Middle Eastern delights. Plunge into one of five swimming pools (including a relaxing lazy river) and cap off your indulgent day at the award-winning The Ritz-Carlton Spa for pampering spa treatments.
Sofitel Dubai The Palm
This 5-star resort sits pretty on the sands of Palm Jumeirah, giving its guests one of the most coveted addresses in Dubai. To really embrace the glitz of this desert city, the hotel’s Signature Collection elevates your experience with impeccable suites more akin to chic townhouses than resort accommodation. The Residences are a step above again; for those seeking a palatial home-away-from-home escape. To lure you away from your suite is the hotel’s culinary clout, encompassing 11 restaurants, bars and lounges – from a steakhouse and beach tavern to seafood-heavy menus and tables with views over the Arabian Gulf. There’s even a gelati kiosk, happily located next to Amura Kids Club, for those seeking to sate their sweet tooth.
Atlantis The Royal
A truly exciting addition to Dubai’s glittering skyline, the architecturally striking Atlantis The Royal ushers in a new era of experiential luxury in this luminescent city. Warm Arabian hospitality infuses every space, and the resort offers a raft of five-star facilities to rival the area’s most established hotels. Plunge into the 90-metre sky pool, bathe on the sunkissed private beach and gaze in wonder at the beautiful lobby – home to three aquariums, including the world’s largest jellyfish tank. An incredible 17 dining outlets onsite – including eight celebrity chef-helmed restaurants – cater to every taste. Ready to completely check out? The dreamy 5,000sqm wellness centre and beauty salon offers massage treatments from around the globe and a range of fitness options, including ‘underwater yoga’ in a unique aquarium setting.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Commanding Dubai’s skyline with its world-famous, sail-shaped façade, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah sets a gold-plated stage for the escape of a lifetime. Regularly acclaimed as the world’s most luxurious hotel, this incredible property features the world’s largest fleet of Rolls Royces, one of the highest staff-to-suite ratios in the world, a rooftop helipad and a breathtaking terrace decked out with pools and air-conditioned cabanas. Designed using nearly 2,000sqm of 24-carat gold leaf, custom-made carpets from India, and rare Italian Statuario marble (as used by Michelangelo when creating his sculptures), Burj Al Arab Jumeirah knows no bounds when it comes to sheer grandeur.
One&Only Royal Mirage
Indulge in intimate luxury at the exquisite One&Only Royal Mirage, ideally located overlooking the city’s iconic Palm Jumeirah. Boasting extraordinary views of the Dubai skyline and its own private stretch of golden sands, this palatial resort promises the utmost exclusivity and a long list of glamorous facilities, including 65 acres of verdant gardens, 16 world-class dining venues and the lavish One&Only Spa. There’s no real reason to leave the property – although watersports, tours and sightseeing experiences are all available to complete your escape.
Palazzo Versace Dubai
Crafted by one of the world’s most legendary brands, Palazzo Versace Dubai has long been one of Dubai’s standout resorts. The sumptuous Neoclassical property is impeccably located on the banks of historic Dubai Creek – just a short distance from Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai – and is just as alluring as its dazzling surroundings. This incredible five-star property boasts shimmering city views, combined with Italian furnishings, extraordinary service and an ambience of pure glamour. The chandelier-studded hotel has three tranquil outdoor pools, nine restaurants and bars, and an award-winning spa with seven treatment rooms and two Moroccan hammams.
Atlantis, The Palm
Experience the glitz and grandeur of one of Dubai’s most glamorous resorts with an indulgent escape at the five-star Atlantis, The Palm, a jewel in the crown of Dubai opulence. Jaw-dropping in size and beauty, the resort boasts over 1.4 kilometres of white-sand beach overlooking the Arabian Sea on Dubai’s famous Palm Jumeirah. Taste your way through 32 exquisite dining venues, bars and lounges – including Nobu Dubai and Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen & Bar. A definite plus for families or thrill-seekers is easy access to the world’s largest waterpark, Aquaventure Waterpark. Enjoy more than 100 slides and attractions, including the spine-tingling ‘Leap of Faith’ waterslide – an 18-metre drop through a tank filled with circling sharks. If you prefer to stay dry, visit 65,000 marine animals at The Lost Chambers Aquarium, or discover luxurious treatments at ShuiQi Spa (and that’s just the beginning).
