Dubai

Dubai

is often dubbed the “Vegas
of the
Middle East“. But Vegas’ garish neon signs, gimmicky shows and
tourist traps pale in comparison to the futuristic skyline and
ambitious architectural developments found in Dubai. This desert
city is an adult playground built on excess; ATM’s dispense gold
bars, robot jockeys race camels, and it boasts of being home to the
world’s largest
shopping mall and tallest building.

Notorious for uber-luxe accommodation, impeccable service and an
emerging culinary scene, if flash floats your boat, Dubai is the
one – and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel goes one step further and
delivers it straight your door in a daily hamper overflowing with
fresh fruit and dates.

The resort celebrates its 20th anniversary this December
and with its array of amenities resembling a 101 in how to
experience Dubai, it’s no surprise that it has withstood the test
of time. Set on the
pristine sands of Jumeirah beach and overlooking the Burj Al
Arab, the hotel resembles a breaking wave with the blue-plated
glass cleverly reflecting the waters of the Arabian Gulf. Welcoming
you to Dubai is an on-site PADI diving
centre, several tennis courts, six
pools, a private
beach and a relaxing spa
and
wellness centre – but that’s by no means all.

Rooms

Each of its 599 rooms offers floor-to-ceiling windows with
curtains controlled by in-room mobile panel. Wake up to
jaw-dropping views of the Burj Al Arab without leaving your
king-size bed, with ocean-side rooms offering large seating areas,
walk-in showers, complimentary newspapers and access to Wild Wadi
Waterpark (you’re never too old).

For those who revel in exclusivity (or suffer from vertigo) stay
in one of 19 Beit Al Bahar villas at ground level. The epitome of
tranquility, these luxurious hideaways benefit from 24-hour butler
service, limousine airport transfers and daily afternoon tea. The
piece de resistance? A sunken mosaic bath, just for you.

What’s for breakfast?

Everything. By the end of your stay you still won’t have managed
to work your way through the extravagant breakfast buffet, served
in the hotel’s Latitude restaurant.

How about lunch and dinner?

Jumeirah’s 21-restaurant roster will take your taste buds on a

global expedition, with Italian trattorias, red-brick German
kellers and British gastropubs or beachfront seafood all on the
menu. In a city where Indian cuisine is found in abundance, Naya is
noted as the go-to for a high-end version of the British favourite.
For a taste of
Latin passion, head to the dizzying 25th-floor restaurant, La
Parrilla, where the views are as splendid as the food. The wagyu
beef tops the must-try dishes, while the fresh basket of prawns,
tapas sorbet and seared scallops are served with a side of tango
dancers and live Latin music.

Is there a bar?

Stroll to the end of the Jumeriah marina walkway to the renowned
360°, where panoramic views of Dubai’s ever-evolving skyline and
the sweeping waters of Arabian Gulf accompany your nightcap. With a
“no effort no entry” dress code you’ll be clinking glasses among
Dubai’s movers and shakers, as international DJs pump out house,
hip hop and R&B. Carry on the party at
tiki-infused celeb favourite Mahiki, also situated within the
resort. Look out for buried treasure at the bottom of their
infamous chests and conch shell cocktails.

Amenities

It would be easier to mention what this expansive resort doesn’t
offer – which is virtually nothing. The most aficionado hoteliers
would struggle to find flaws as refreshing ice-lollies are
regularly handed out around the pool, complimentary sunscreen is
readily available and sun umbrellas come complete with a bell to
summon an on-call butler.

Things you should know

With the iconic wave spanning 275m alone, we recommend
generously tipping the golf cart drivers who’ll be driving you
around. It’s a long old walk between the private beach and
spa…

Within a short walk you’ll find…

You’re in Dubai, so you might as well go the whole hog and dine
at Burj Al Arab, which is embellished with 1,790 m2 of 24-carat
gold leaf. Channel
Arabian night fantasies and order the 27.321 cocktail at the
toe-curling price of £5000 – then walk away with your very own
piece of Aladdin’s cave as the 18-carat gold glass is gifted to
you.