5 Luxury Hotels in Dubai and Their Cheaper, But Similar, Alternatives

Set on a private, hour-glass-shaped island in the Persian Gulf, the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah offers a one-of-a-kind setting for an opulent romantic getaway. The hotel’s sleek, sail-shaped tower is an iconic fixture of Dubai’s skyline, and can be seen from around the city. Spacious guest rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows for excellent views over the Persian Gulf from the comfort of plush couches and whirlpool tubs. Each floor features its own private butler, and gold-plated iPads connect guests to the service concierge for additional requests. The property’s larger pool is situated right on the island’s edge overlooking the gulf waters, while the smaller pool is set on a higher terrace with a swim-up bar. The hotel’s private white-sand beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, with plenty of loungers and umbrellas available for relaxing. Other noteworthy perks include seven restaurants, a well-equipped fitness center, spa, and free access to the nearby Wild Wadi Water Park

Just down the coast from the Burj Al Arab, the high-end Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf resort rivals the luxury status of its shiny, modern neighbor, while enjoying lower prices and a more picturesque setting of palm groves and meandering canals. The Dar Al Masyaf is one of several properties comprising the sprawling Madinat Jumeirah resort complex, which packs a lengthy list of amenities and activities. By day, guests can swim at any of the numerous pools, laze along a mile-long private beach, or cool off at Wild Wadi Waterpark. Other activities include tennis, yoga, and a range of treatments at the Talise Spa. By night, there are 50 restaurants to choose from, a live theater, and nightlife at Souk Madinat. In addition to fine dining and abundant activities, Dar Al Masyaf’s spacious rooms, furnished balconies, rain showerheads, and sizable tubs provide a romantic sanctuary for couples. Although guests can easily navigate the resort on foot or via golf cart, the most scenic journey is by abra—

The palatial Four Seasons Dubai at Jumeirah Beach succeeds in creating a laidback atmosphere within an extremely deluxe setting. For families, the pool and long stretch of powdery white sand are huge perks. The kid-friendly Active Pool provides a zero-entry design, meaning that the little ones can safely splash about in the shallows. Additionally, the Kids For All Seasons Activity Center puts on free programs and activities for the kids throughout the day. Meanwhile, parents can unwind at the adult-only Quiet Pool or ease into relaxation at the Pearl Spa. Suites come with spacious common areas, multiple bathrooms, and huge terraces, providing an ideal setup for family time while maintaining some privacy between parents and kids. The property is a bit removed from Dubai’s main attractions, but the hotel can easily whisk guests by house car to the Dubai Zoo or Mall of the Emirates

Located on the outermost island of the Palm Jumeirah archipelago, this Atlantis, The Palm

Set at the end of the Palm Jumeirah’s west crescent, this luxury One&Only property

On the opposite side of Palm Jumeirah, the Waldorf Astoria

The Residence & Spa boutique hotel

This alternative luxury Dubai resort occupies an expansive white-sand beach down the coast from the Residence & Spa at One&Only Royal Mirage. In addition to much cheaper prices, Le Meridien

As we previously mentioned, the Palace at One&Only Royal Mirage

Reasonable rates aside, the Sheraton Jumeirah Beach ResortRelated Stories:

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