When Donald Trump announced plans to open a new luxury tower in Dubai, one of the grandest in his collection, the reaction was enthusiastic, if not a huge surprise. Associating one of the signature names in prosperity with one of the signature names in prosperity with one of the recently grandest cities in the world seemed like a natural, if not unusual event. After all, the most populous emirate/city in the UAE has rapidly become the buzz of the business world, drawing big deals and even bigger status to the oil-rich metropolis. But Dubai is about much more than black gold. The city’s incredible wealth has allowed huge investments in real estate and tourism, making it one of the world’s premier destinations. In recent years, the secure city has welcomed dignitaries, celebrities and other curious travelers to its lap of luxury. The likes of Elton John, Aerosmith and Celine Dion have accepted the invitation to perform there for adoring crowds. From sumptuous Arab feasts and chauffeured Bentleys to six-star amenities and the most expensive hotel in world, Dubai is not one of the most exclusive places on the globe – it takes the top spot.
Burj Al Arab
Like a sail caught by an ocean wind, the Burj Al Arab soars over the Dubai coastline, creating a dramatic statement that mirrors the opulent hospitality within its gorgeous walls.
Everything about this multi-award-winning hotel is super luxe, from the discreet in-suite check in to the chauffeured Rolls Royce waiting on call. Each floor features its own reception desk and an army of exceptionally skilled butlers to cater to your every whim. And that’s only the beginning.
Burj Al Arab doesn’t do rooms – it does suites – 202 to be exact, each arranged over two floors. Floor to ceiling glass gives the property unrivaled views of the Arabian Gulf, the interiors appointed with rich textures and vivid colors. Suites are designed with sophisticated precision, like a 42-inch Plasma TV and a stateof- the-art entertainment system. The bathroom features Hermès amenities and a deluxe assortment of music and oils for a relaxing bath. Not satisfied with your pillow? Choose from 13 others to find your perfect fit.
The hotel’s prime location offers ideal access to Gulf waters with a private beach. The facilities also include an outdoor pool and gymnasium. The Assawan Spa and Health Club provides relaxing treatments in a lavish setting. The hotel can also arrange for a variety of activities in and outside Dubai, such as a desert safari, horse riding, museum tours, hot-air ballooning and polo. Golf is available at the world class Montgomerie Golf Course and Emirates Golf Courses nearby.
Dining is likewise an event at the Burj Al Arab. The signature restaurant, Al Mahara, is rated one of the best hotel dining experiences in the world and serves a delicious menu of fine seafood and modern international cuisine. Eat under the stars, in the tallest atrium, or “under the sea.”
The Fairmont Dubai
Modeled after an Arabic wind tunnel, the 34-story Fairmont is a contemporary icon in the heart of financial Dubai. With business in mind, the hotel caters to its core clientele with easy access to the Convention Center, golf clubs, beaches and more.
Fairmont Gold offers hotel-within-a-hotel services, including airport transfers, discreet concierge service, a private lounge and more. The penthouse Presidential Suite features a grand entrance, private dining and living area and two beautifully appointed bedrooms. Guests also get the privilege of stunning panoramic views and a convenient rooftop pool.
Ten contemporary dining and entertainment venues offer an array of gastronomic delights to amuse the palate from Spectrum on One with eight interactive kitchens specializing in six influential international cuisines, to the hotel’s 24-hour dining destination, Cascades, serving an assortment of international delights under a soaring atrium. The modern Cigar Bar features a range of world-class cigars in a handcrafted walk-in humidor.
The Willow Stream Spa is a unique destination created to “inspire, nourish and guide guests on a journey to find their personal energy.” The 40,000-square-foot spa offers a fully equipped health club, complete with two rooftop swimming pools for relaxing sunrises or sunsets.
Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa
Not all of Dubai’s luxuries are confined to the city itself. Some of the best pleasures can be found in the neighboring desert. One such oasis is the Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa. Set within a majestic landscape, this unique venue enchants with unobstructed views of the Hajar Mountains and surrounding dunes.
Inspired by a Bedouin encampment, Al Maha is a luxury-meets-nature sanctuary. Visitors enjoy plenty of pampering, from private pools to the best food and wine. But they are also treated to one of the most pristine and peaceful places in the world. Don’t be surprised if an Arabian oryx or bashful gazelle crosses your sandy path.
You will be treated like a sultan in the Presidential Suite, with a large temperature-controlled swimming pool, wooden deck, handcrafted furnishings, walk-in shower, and Bulgari bath amenities, to name a few. Plus, you’ll be serviced by a private staff, including housekeeping, security and chef.
Guests are entitled to two complimentary on-site activities per day during their stay at Al Maha. Traditional desert pursuits, such as falconry, camel treks, horse riding and archery recall a former way of life. For sheer excitement, an outing in a rugged four-wheel drive vehicle cannot be beaten. In contrast, guided nature walks offer a quieter and more informative way to experience the desert.
The spa is its own sanctuary of wellness. Signature treatments feature the exclusive Timeless range of products made from Arabic dates and frankincense. Enjoy a sensuous massage while breathing in the scents of indigenous flora and taking in the panoramic views of the desert and mountains. No it’s not a mirage, it’s Dubai at its best…exotic, exhilarating and exclusive. See what all the buzz is about.
