Elite Byblos Hotel

The 14-story Auris Plaza Hotel is contemporary but generic throughout, with features and rooms that don't reflect its advertised five-pearl rating. The light-filled modern lobby does have a striking atrium with glass elevators, but the red and tan seating around wooden tables are uninspired. The most visually appealing aspect of the property is the rooftop pool with a lovely deck and views of Downtown Dubai. Leisure facilities and the property's proximity to the mall lure many tourists, but business travelers also come here for the meeting spaces and the 13th-floor Executive Lounge with free refreshments and work desks. While there are a couple spots to grab a beverage on-site, note that the hotel doesn’t serve alcohol (though that's not atypical for hotels in Dubai). The overall vibe is sophisticated and traditional. 

The hotel is centrally located in the Al Barsha neighborhood of Dubai, surrounded by a network of sidewalks that mean getting around on foot is possible, which is not always the case in this city. Nearby are hotels and some cheap eating options, plus a 24-hour supermarket is down the street. The Mall of the Emirates is a five-minute walk, and its adjacent metro station is six minutes farther. The hotel provides a free shuttle to the mall, the Dubai Mall, an outlet mall, and Jumeirah Beach; all trips take around 10 to 15 minutes. The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is next to Dubai Mall. Dubai is served by two airports: Al Maktoum International Airport is 35 minutes by car and Dubai International Airport is 25 minutes. Free parking is available on-site.

The 337 rooms at the Auris Plaza have contemporary -- albeit generic -- furnishings in a subdued color scheme. Decor consists of striped carpeting, white walls paired with pale-green accent walls, furniture finished in rounded edges, high back-lit headboards, and tan seating. Small doses of color comes from the brown-and-orange bed runners and matching pillows plus abstract artwork. The Executive Suites give upgraded features including separate sitting areas, expresso machines, and access to the 13th-floor lounge. Other suites have a dining area and also include access to the lounge. Standard amenities include minibars stocked with juice, water, and soda, an electric kettle alongside tea and coffee, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and media hubs. Closets hold safes and bathrobes. Marble and mosaic-tiled bathrooms are attractive and have shower/tub combos and bidets, as well as magnifying mirrors, toiletries, and hairdryers. Note that some rooms are located near a noisy construction site, so it's worth requesting asking for one away from this disruption.

The well-rounded facilities here are meant to appeal to both leisure and business travelers. The clear highlight though is an attractive rooftop pool and hot tub with an adjacent deck lined by padded lounge chairs and a few umbrellas. It also has lovely views of Downtown Dubai. The Pool Terrace offers burgers, salads, and non-alcoholic drinks. The modest but pretty spa has a variety of treatments on offer, and guests can use the whirlpool and steam room for free. A beauty salon is also on-site. The spacious fitness center has modern cardio machines and free weights, plus medicine balls. A small, colorful kids' club is open daily and babysitting is available upon request. For dining, the restaurant Zuri has a set-price menu featuring Asian cuisine, while Didon has Middle Eastern and international buffets for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Both receive predominantly positive reviews from former guests. Auris Cafe is another option, with drinks and snacks, including pastries. The 13th-floor Executive Lounge provides a free buffet breakfast for Executive Room and suite guests, in addition to all-day refreshments and a work space. Wi-Fi is free throughout.