Best Hotels In Dubai

Dubai has become rapidly and heavily popular in recent years. The magpies in us flock there for the opulence and shopping, but it also bathes in gorgeous weather over beautiful beaches, and offers plenty of landmarks and exciting food scenes to enjoy.

The best hotels in Dubai aren’t just ‘somewhere to stay’; they are half the experience. With gratitude, I’ve been a guest in some seriously stunning places in Dubai, and here are the ones that stood out. Some are obvious (like the first one!), but others you may not know about, especially if you’ve never been to Dubai before.

Whether you’re a solo traveller, influencer, family or couple, take a look through this guide and find the perfect place to book.

1: Jumeirah Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab is almost a landmark in its own right. I’ve seen countless celebrities and influencers on social media insist this hotel is in the background of their photos, even if they haven’t stayed there. It’s a clear sign to their followers that they’re in Dubai, the capital of luxury.

As a hotel, it continues to remain one of the most iconic establishments in Dubai – it’s drenched in luxurious décor and I felt very special to be checking in as a guest. Immediately, staff were absolutely incredible and couldn’t do enough to assist me and make me feel welcome.

Of course, the rooms are exquisite. My suite was spacious and elegant, with breathtaking ocean views. I wanted for nothing, and if I did, the butler would be on hand to make immediate arrangements.

Dining was fabulous. Al Muntaha is a Michelin-starred restaurant, the food was delicious and the service highly professional.

The terrace was one of my favourite spots, with the most jawdropping views over the Arabian Gulf. There are a bunch of other restaurants and bars too, so you can easily mix things up if you’re feeling adventurous.

The hotel’s private beach is just a few footsteps away, which is perfect if you fancy a quiet stroll.

I also checked out the Sal beach club, which has stylish seating and endless sea views. Pretty hard to beat. It gets busy on a Saturday, and it’s not exclusive to guests – others (typically influencers) will buy day passes for ‘that’ Insta shot, but it was much quieter on other days.

Overall, a sensational stay, as expected.

Location: Umm Suqeim 3 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 4 301 7777

2: Atlantis The Royal

The Atlantis The Royal is incredible. It’s in a prime spot on Palm Jumeirah, and has striking architecture that’s mostly designed to take in all the city views.

We were treated like royalty here, from the moment we arrived until we checked out. Everything about it was flawless. The hotel itself is stunning. The outdoor pools were outstanding, and those Gulf views you catch from all over the property were unbelievable.

The Seascape Room we stayed in had a view of the ocean, which was such a treat – especially as everything else was mostly focused on city sights. The room was so spacious and comfortable, with all the added luxuries you’d expect.

The dining was perfect, too – 17 very good restaurants to choose from, and even the buffet was perhaps one of the best I’ve ever had.

The spa and fitness centre are fantastic.

Each spot had its own vibe, and the service didn’t disappoint. Atlantis The Royal isn’t just a hotel; it’s more like a destination.

Location: Palm Jumeirah – Crescent Rd – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai
Contact: +971 4 426 0000

3: Atlantis, The Palm

The Atlantis, The Palm is an incredible hotel right on the seafront, with an oceanic theme throughout and views over the Arabian sea and Dubai’s skyline. It’s breathtaking, wherever you look.

What blew me away was the range of attractions, especially the Aquaventure Waterpark and the aquarium. Both are impressive, with something for everyone – families, solo travellers, you name it.

There are several upscale restaurants in the resort, each with its own style and menu. You’ve got a gorgeous steak restaurant at Seafire, or The Shore is Tex Mex, and Saffron is the best for breakfast. There’s so much variety, and also a little café that has views of the aquarium.

The rooms are absolutely perfect – nice and spacious and absolutely immaculate. The service was unreal, I’d come back to a dream space with little touches added whilst I’d been gone.

There are plenty of sunbeds here at the pool and on the beach, and the service is spot on, with a buzzer or app for food and drink to be delivered, and this was done very promptly.

For adults the spa is a must, and if you’re travelling with kids, the kids’ club isn’t some dingey soft play room you leave them in – it’s creative and interactive. Overall, I had an incredible stay here and I’d love to return.

Location: Crescent Rd – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 4 426 0000

4: Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach

Tthe Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach is in a stunning location. The resort sits right on the beach, with the city skyline on one side and the Gulf on the other.

From my room’s balcony, the views were a mix of famous buildings and peaceful sea. It’s a little like being in a palace – which is what you come to expect in a Four Seasons establishment. Families and long-term guests will certainly appreciate the larger suites and spaces for kids.

There are plenty of dining options on-site. I spent an evening at Sea Fu, enjoying Asian-inspired seafood while the sun set over the water. I soon developed a habit for heading to the Mercury Bar after dinner, because it’s a little more upbeat and has stunning views.

The pool has private cabanas, which were wonderful – I used them regularly during the day. The hospitality throughout my stay was second to none, and clearly 5-star calibre.

The hotel team gave me great tips for exploring Dubai, like visiting the Spice Souk or booking a desert excursion.

I treated myself to a spa treatment which was out of this world, I’d highly recommend you make time for this if you can. Every part of my stay felt thoughtful, from check-in to check-out. The building itself is incredible, the food is sensational, the location is perfect and the staff were absolutely wonderful.

Location: Jumeira St – Jumeirah – Jumeirah 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 4 270 7777

5: Palace Downtown

The Palace Downtown is another exceptional option. It has grand Arabian-style interiors that blend classic elegance with modern comfort – every corner of the hotel looks sensational, as do the views.

My room was spacious and rather chic and smelt divine, with brilliant views too. It had everything I needed, and the attention to detail really showed in the decor and furnishings.

The restaurants on site served up fine dining with a nice variety. I enjoyed local dishes and international favourites – the Thai was so delicious, I went back the next night. All restaurants are exquisitely decorated.

This hotel is just a short walk to Dubai Mall, so a very good option if you’re here for the shopping. The central location would make you think the hotel would appear crammed or busy, but they’ve made it into a calm environment with lots of greenery and airy spaces.

The spa and outdoor pool were spotlessly clean, and the entertainment such as the live music really made a good evening fantastic. Staff across the board were highly professional and so helpful and friendly.

Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai
Contact: +971 4 428 7888

6: JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

The JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai is beautiful, even from a distance. In true Dubai style, it is a masterpiece with its sleek, modern high-rise design. The lobby felt polished and welcoming, even though the place was busy.

Staff greeted me right away, and check-in was smooth. The hotel has 14 restaurants and bars, with cuisines to match almost any taste. I got chatting with a couple who were also checking in, and they told me they’ve been coming here for years for its consistently excellent service and hospitality.

The dining here was exceptional – five stars, with the best service to boot. The breakfast was particularly good, with so many different options – I believe there were six different countries’ cuisines!

The rooms are super comfortable with large bathrooms, and give great views of the city.

I also checked out the spa, and had a wonderful treatment whilst I was there. The hotel also has its own nightclub. Now, I haven’t been to a nightclub for years, but its atmosphere wasn’t too much and I had a really good night. And zero noise could be heard from my room – my entire was peaceful in that regard.

This hotel is really good for offering both a retreat and easy access to nightlife, on site and off site.

Location: Business Bay – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 4 414 0000

7: Bvlgari Resort Dubai

The Bvlgari Resort Dubai is very popular, especially for dining and nightlife. The resort is super stylish and trendy, and a massive hit on social media. But that’s just the dining.

But as a hotel guest, you’re treated to exclusivity. I really did love the private marina attached to it – those quiet moments with such amazing views really were a highlight.

Dining here is elegant, with each restaurant creating a calm spot to enjoy a meal. I tried some local and international dishes, all prepared with care and presented beautifully. The variety makes it easy to find something to suit your mood.

The spa was superb here, with gorgeous amenities and highly professional staff.

With easy access to the beach, I felt as though I had everything I could possibly need, whenever I wanted it. The staff were absolutely fantastic in all areas, and although the restaurants are a popular place for people to dine, the hotel itself felt much calmer than some others I’ve stayed in.

Location: Jumeirah Bay Island – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 4 777 5555

8: The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai

The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, is outstanding. True to Ritz branding, everything here is 100% 5-star rating.

The hotel sits right in Jumeirah Beach Residence, so I could just walk out onto the sand. The beach here is sensational – so pristine and peaceful. It was almost like it belonged to a different world than the busy city.

This hotel is in a very good close by to the Dubai Marina and nearby shops.

My room came with a private balcony facing the Arabian Gulf, which was breathtaking. And the room itself was large and superior, yet so homely, too. Housekeeping surprised me every day with different treats or gestures – I’d look forward to returning.

In fact I loved spending time in my hotel room! In the evenings, I could watch the sunset from my balcony. It was so lovely to have my own space and enjoy the beauty of Dubai all at once.

Dining stood out for me. Blue Jade offered tasty Asian dishes, and Caravan’s breakfast buffet had more than enough options to start my day.

Onsite they have several pools, water sports, tennis, yoga, and a Ritz Kids programme that seemed well thought out. I always look for a mix of relaxation and activities, and this place delivered.

The spa was spacious, with treatments blending Arabian and European styles. I left feeling so good, and completely restored.

Staff spoke several languages and worked so hard, yet with a genuine smile and kindness. That made my visit comfortable from the moment I arrived.

As expected, a perfect stay at the Ritz-Carlton.

Location: Al Mamsha St – Jumeirah Beach Residence – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 4 399 4000

9: Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai

The Mandarin Oriental Jumeira is definitely one of my favourites and I cannot wait to return to this one. It sits right on the beachfront, so you’re cloaked in sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf and the city skyline.

My room had a city view, and this was equally as mesmerising, especially with its floor-to-ceiling windows. It had a marble bathroom which I love – it just feels so luxurious and enjoyable to be in.

Dining here impressed me. I had dinner at Tasca, the hotel’s Michelin-starred Portuguese spot, and the food and service blew me away. For lunch, I tried Netsu, a Japanese steakhouse known for its Warayaki cooking style.

The hotel’s spa felt incredibly tranquil, with big treatment rooms and a calming atmosphere. I also checked out the fitness centre, which was modern and well-equipped.

The beach area had private cabanas and staff who paid attention to every detail. I spent a peaceful afternoon by the water and barely wanted to leave.

Top marks have to go to the staff. They were absolutely incredible from beginning to end, and went to every effort to make me feel as though I was the only guest there! Truly exemplary.

Location: Jumeirah Beach Rd – Jumeirah – Jumeirah 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 4 777 2222

Summary

Dubai is one of the biggest diamonds in the world’s crown. It’s in a league of its own, so spending time there is always going to be memorable. Choosing the right hotel is also… well, it’s kind of easy, to be honest.

Dubai really does push the boat out when it comes to hospitality. They are the best in the world at it. That being said, you can’t just pitch up anywhere and hope for the best. There’ll be certain needs and preferences of yours that could make all the difference.

The hotels I’ve mentioned here are masters of hosting, adding the luxury, views, dining, comfort, and service that’ll make you wish you were never coming home. I had Dubai blues for weeks when I returned home.

Remember though, they’re the best for a reason, which makes them very popular indeed. So get reserving!