Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach

The gleaming, white marble lobby of this palace-like structure is an immediate giveaway of how seriously Dubai takes luxury. From the sprawling dining areas to the canopied beachside terraces and even the life-size chess board by the immaculate pool areas, every inch of the hotel is an exercise in contemporary opulence. Furnishings are mostly modern, but hanging mosaic lamps and intricate carvings on the building add traditional touches. Some bar areas also evoke old-fashioned grandeur with velvet chairs, classic chandeliers, and thick carpeting. With no shortage of areas to kick back, the property is geared to families and couples on vacation, although its event spaces are also popular for corporate events. 

The resort’s location makes for incredible views, with 14 acres of sand on the stunning Jumeirah Beach on one side, and Dubai's skyline on the other, but there's little to see within walking distance. Both Old Dubai and downtown Dubai -- where Bhurj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall are located -- are a 20-minute drive away. The Jumeirah Mosque, Mall of the Emirates, and Dubai Zoo are a 13-minute drive away. Deira's historic sites and souks are a 30-minute drive away. Dubai International Airport is 22 minutes away by car. The hotel does arrange airport transfers for fees.

Huge, 753-square-foot Premier and Deluxe Rooms accommodate chaise lounges and one king or two queen beds. Elegant decor focuses on soft, neutral tones in the carpeting and drapes, while subtle Arabic designs frame the ceilings. Floor-to-ceiling windows open to small balconies furnished with daybeds and chairs. Views (city or sea, depending on the room type) are lovely, but some can be obstructed by construction areas, which can also be loud.All air-conditioned rooms have 55-inch flat-screen TVs, walk-in closets with laptop-compatible safes, Bluetooth speakers, iPad minis connected with the hotel’s services, and desks with USB outlets. Yoga and prayer mats, ironing equipment, and morning newspapers are provided. All rooms have espresso machines and electric kettles, plus refrigerated minibars with alcoholic beverages and non-refrigerated beverages and snacks. Cribs and PlayStation consoles can be requested. Standard Wi-Fi is free, but high-speed internet comes with extra fees. Some Deluxe Rooms have wheelchair accessible features. Spotless marble bathrooms have mosaic tile details, double sinks, lighted makeup mirrors, and vanity mirrors with TVs. Hairdryers, scales, and luxury Rajasthan by Etro bath products, are provided. All bathrooms have walk-in showers with handheld showerheads along with separate bathtubs, plus bidets.Enormous suites have separate master bedrooms and dining areas, pull-out sofa beds, multiple bathrooms, and multiple balconies. Some suites even have their own fitness rooms and wraparound terraces.

Features are as luxurious and thoughtful as the decor and rooms. Food options are an expensive highlight. Suq, structured like a modern market hall, features international food stations, a large daily buffet breakfast (not included in room rates), and Friday brunches with live music. 24-hour room service is available. Sea Fu restaurant serves seafood in an elegant room or an outdoor beachfront bar area with a fire pit. The classy Hendricks cigar bar and the plush Shai Salon & Terrace (with an outdoor shisha area) offer additional drinks and leisure options. The sleek rooftop Mercury Bar has breathtaking city views, but minimum spending amounts apply on certain days. The Restaurant Village just outside the hotel has five additional fine dining options. All restaurants and bars are subject to closure during Ramadan months.An outdoor adult-only Quiet Pool is thoughtfully separated from the family-friendly Active Pool. Both offer drinks and cabana rentals for fees. An indoor pool has a beautiful glass ceiling and heated whirlpool, with ladies-only hours throughout the week. Water, frozen treats, and sunscreen by the pools and beach are free. The lovely private stretch of Jumeirah Beach also includes lounges and butler service, but water sports equipment rentals are pricey. Lessons are available at two tennis courts, and a 24-hour modern fitness center offers spin classes and personal trainers. The luxurious 10-room Pearl Spa incorporates local pearls, camel milk, and desert sand in its treatments. There’s also a hammam, a heated whirlpool, an ice fountain, and a rain shower. Mini treatments are available for kids. Other child-friendly amenities include babysitting services and the free Kids For All Seasons Activity Center. A beauty salon and men’s grooming lounge provide hairstyling services.A business center is open 24/7, and 12,000 square feet of classic boardrooms and event space frequently host parties or conferences. Standard Wi-Fi is free property-wide, but charges apply for higher-speed service. Valet parking is free. The resort also offers two Bentley house cars for guests' convenience.