Grand Excelsior Hotel Deira

One of the first things you can't help but notice at the Sheraton Deira Hotel is that it sits right under the flight path of the nearby airport. From the outside the noise of the low-flying aircraft can be close-to deafening, but the property is well soundproofed from outside noise. The blue-and-white low-rise hotel features a serene lobby with a long sweeping reception desk, polished stone floors, and potted plants. The reception area leads to a pleasant central atrium that rises up through the hotel to a huge skylight that floods natural sunlight on the internal courtyard's pastel pink arches, classically styled balustrades, and an elegant centerpiece chandelier. The Sheraton's location near the airport attracts business travelers and transit guests, although it also may appeal to aircraft enthusiasts.

The hotel is located on a busy road in an uninspiring part of north Dubai's district of Deira, which was once the city's commercial center but has increasing lost its position to new developments.  The location is unideal for exploring most of the usual tourist attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa and Jumeirah beaches (both at least a 20-minute drive away), but the Al Mamzar Beach Park is a pleasant alternative and just 10 minutes' drive. The local Abu Baker Al Siddique metro station is also within walking distance and Dubai International Airport is a short taxi ride away. 

The hotel has 229 rooms, most of which are decked out in the chain's signature neutral, earthy tones, sleek dark-wood furnishings, and crisp white bedding (though suites have more homey touches, such as wooden floors and Persian rubs). Standard in-room amenities include flat-screen TVs, bathrobes/slippers, and free Wi-Fi, and room service is available around the clock. While rooms are well soundproofed from outside airplane noise, there have been reports of internal noise issues. 

A buffet breakfast (for a fee) is served in the central courtyard's Terrace restaurant, which also offers lunch and dinner menus,  and light meals and snacks are served in the Link@Sheraton cafe and aviation-themed Lindbergh's Bar. Airplane enthusiasts are also encouraged to indulge their passion on the rooftop terrace -- where planes scream overhead every two to three minutes. The terrace also has a swimming pool with a separate hot tub and lounge chairs. Club Room and suite guests also get free access to the Sheraton Club Lounge with free breakfast, snacks, and happy hour drinks.