Crowne Plaza Dubai-Deira

The Crowne Plaza at Deira isn't as new as the Hyatt Place Dubai nearby, but it still holds up well against the competition and deserves to be recognized as one of the top upscale options for the area. Deira has fallen out of favor for many business travelers, who often prefer the hotels closer to the Dubai Financial Center, but it's still a reasonably important business district and the airport proximity is a positive for many. There are some fun quirky touches like a bedouin tent in the open, expansive lobby. Guests indicate that the hotel is a favorite with tour groups and there are lots of common spaces for convalescing, plus several bars-- a plus for many as alcohol service is not a given in Deira, or Dubai for that matter. Guests sensitive to smoke will be happy to know that smoking is only allowed in smoking guest rooms, and the designated smoking room attached to Harry's Bar. 

Deira was once a very business-centered area of Dubai, but it has fallen out of vogue in the last handful of years, leaving some business hotels without as much of their target clientele. Deira is just a 12-minute drive from the airport, however, making it a good landing place for those with short stays. The hotel is a 20-minute ride from the Burj Khalifa, and it's a bit farther to get to Jumeirah beach, Wild Wadi Waterpark, and the Dubai marina and surrounding shopping. The hotel offers free shuttle service to Al Mamzar Beach Park and some area shopping destinations. 

Rooms are attractive and contemporary, and for the most part decor wouldn't be out of place at a corporate chain anywhere in the world -- though the arabesque designs in screens and tile, and the framed, artsy black-and-white photos showing things like ancient Middle Eastern doors and hinges, nod to the location. Otherwise, expect streamlined dark wood furniture and fabric accents typically in either orange or blue. Even the entry-level rooms have deep soaking tubs with rainfall showerheads, and most upper-level categories above that have separate showers. This Deira hotel does have a liquor license so minibars are fully equipped; kettles and instant coffee are also provided (brew coffee must be ordered from room service). Flat-screen TVs have multilingual satellite channels, and the convenient power outlets around the room (including by the bed) will likely be appreciated by plugged-in business guests. 

The rooms are also equipped with aromatherapy kits and luxury bedding -- plus the hotel has quiet zones to try to cut down on hallway noise. Some guests report that the poolside rooms can be noisy, though. The hotel also offers both smoking and non-smoking rooms. Executive Club rooms have access to an exclusive lounge where free breakfast, cocktails, and appetizers are served.

The Royal Suite is truly enormous, with two floors joined by a spiral staircase, an eight-seat dining table, and a walk-in closet. 

The hotel offers two 24-hour gyms -- one for women and one for men. Near the fitness centers on the fourth floor is Hero's Health Club, a spa equipped with treatment rooms, comfortable pedicure chaises, and a wood sauna for each sex. A spa is a rare amenity for this category and lacking at nearby competitors. 

The pool is arguably the nicest in the area, with lots of cushioned chaises, a lap swimming area, and a whirlpool tub. Poolside service of drinks and hookah pipes is available and there is a lifeguard on duty -- a good thing as the rooftop deck also features a kiddy pool. As the pool is in the flight path of the airport, expect planes (and accompanying noise) overhead; some enjoy watching the planes while others might find it intrusive. 

Asian restaurant Spice Island is a popular expat spot for brunch (on Fridays especially). Other restaurants include an Italian eatery and the lobby-level pub which has a pool table, foosball, and a jukebox for good measure. Pastries and tea are available around the clock at Aquarium Lounge in the lobby, and room service is also 24-hour. Meeting rooms are available, including a ballroom that can fit 1,200.