Dubai Insider

and sand, with just 38 rooms, suites
and villas, this exclusive hideaway is
sure to impress. Whether you want to
stomp the divots (polo players take to
the field October to April), trot through
the estate on an Arabian stallion, or
enjoy a soothing massage at Samāna
Spa, there’s luxury at every turn.
More equestrian action can be
enjoyed at The Meydan Hotel, which
overlooks Dubai’s spectacular Meydan
Racecourse. As well as getting a
thrilling view of racing thoroughbreds,
the hotel can arrange stable tours
that’ll give you a glimpse into the
jockeys’ room, saddling paddock
and parade ring. The hotel also has
a fabulous array of restaurants.
No trip to the UAE is complete,
however, without going beyond the big
city and escaping deep into the desert.
Nestled amid the golden dunes of the
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve,
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert
Resort & Spa, Dubai will capture your
imagination with its wildlife wonders
(including the protected Arabian
oryx). Get ready for starry nights,
spellbinding sunsets and Arabesque
luxury in the form of sun-drenched
“GET READY FOR STARRY NIGHTS,
SPELLBINDING SUNSETS AND
ARABESQUE LUXURY”
bungalows, traditional Arabic fare
and ultimate rejuvenation at the
resort’s renowned Timeless Spa.
Another dearly loved desert escape
is Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa,
which charms guests with its Arabian
Nights style architecture, views of the
undulating dunes and alfresco dinners
served beneath starlit skies. Nature
walks, falconry and infinity pools, not
to mention the sublime Satori Spa, will
make it a struggle to leave this desert
diamond – that much is guaranteed.
Back in the city, visitors looking to
soak up a little more history should
cross the Garhoud Bridge to the Deira
side of town and the banks of Dubai
Creek, the emirate’s historic heartland.
Nestled beyond the greens and berths
of Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, the
tranquil Park Hyatt Dubai is a gem. Its
white-washed walls and blue domes
channel a Greek odyssey while deserthued
interiors remind you that you’re
still in Arabia. Watch yachts bobbing on
the water from your stylishly appointed
room and enjoy the serene vibes at
the award-winning Amara Spa.
On Oud Metha Road, Marriott
Hotel Al Jaddaf, Dubai is a popular
choice for its modern, thoughtfullydesigned
rooms and suites (think Frette
linens and deluxe amenities). It’s also
home to a great steakhouse, Scots
American Grill, and the tranquil Saray
Spa offering soothing treatments and
dreamy full-day pamper packages.
Shaking up the south bank of Dubai
Creek, Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al
Seef is urban cool personified, with
its contemporary art inspired by the
emirate, lively SOL Sky Bar, and handy
location close to the shops, cafés and
pop-ups on the creek. Just next door,
Hampton by Hilton Dubai Al Seef
is bright and quirky, with its outdoor
pool and hearty hot breakfasts.
Lastly, Al Seef Heritage Hotel
Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton,
will wow you with its traditional
architecture (characterful guestrooms
feature woven fabrics and wooden
beams) and dreamy infinity pool.
23 Hotels