Best Luxury Hotels in United Arab Emirates

The tourism capital of the Gulf nations, the UAE offers year-round sunshine and glamorous resorts. Its two main cities: Abu Dhabi and Dubai are glitzy playgrounds, edged by a perfect coastline with azure blue seas. Dubai is home to the tallest tower on the planet, Burj Khalifa, a major draw for visitors and some of the world’s most opulent hotels. But it’s not only the more populated areas that attract visitors. Trips out to experience the country’s fascinating Bedouin desert culture offer an opportunity to view and engage with a culture completely disparate from the Western world. Here are our top places to stay in the United Arab Emirates.

Sir Bani Yas Island, Da‘sah

Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 30 one- and two-bedroom pool villas of 315–573 sqm, each with a private pool and terrace, set within the wildlife reserve
Amenities Southern African-style grill and lounge, main pool, Anantara Spa (at Desert Islands), boutique Technogym fitness studio, tennis court, archery, stables, Water Sports Centre
More Set among free-roaming Arabian oryx and gazelles in the Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island, 8km off the western Abu Dhabi coast and reached by a 30-minute water taxi from Jebel Dhanna jetty

Forming a cluster of just 30 villas, this low-rise resort blends seamlessly into its surroundings, with thatched roofs and canopied buildings, Each has between one and two bedrooms, all have their own plunge pools, terraces and around-the-clock room service. A stay here feels much like a safari, as you observe the local wildlife pass by your door. Dine al fresco at the African-inspired restaurant Savannah and unwind in the spa. Its nature-based, off-the-beaten-track setting makes the Al Sahel Villa Resort perfect for a romantic retreat (there’s also a babysitting service for parents needing some alone time).

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Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort
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Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Village

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 32 private-pool villas with direct beach access, including Al Naseem tented pool villas and Al Shamal ocean-view villas.
Amenities Shore House seafood restaurant, destination and in-villa dining, The Ritz-Carlton Spa in private pavilions, outdoor pool plus private villa pools, fitness centre, Ritz Kids
More On the Al Hamra beachfront in Ras Al Khaimah, about 50 km from Sharjah International Airport and 100 km from Dubai

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert’s sister property, is a secluded, beachside affair. It also offers pool villas, but 32 rather than over a hundred and is just 15 minutes away via a free shuttle. The Bedouin influence remains, but with a coastal vibe (whites and blues reign over the decor), that’s particularly evident in the four-pavilion, sea-view spa. As this is a smaller resort, there’s just one restaurant, Shore House, but the hotel offers their version of breakfast in bed – a Balinese-style floating breakfast in pool. And private candlelit dinners on the beach can be arranged.

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The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach
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United Arab Emirates, Ras Al Khaimah

Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 203 rooms and suites facing the Arabian Gulf and the resort's golf course, rising to the two-bedroom Ocean View Suite.
Amenities Lexington Grill & Bar, Azure, Qasr Al Bahar, Camelia Lounge, Sunset Beach Lounge and Palm Shore Pool Bar, Waldorf Astoria Spa, two swimming pools, private beach, kids' and teens' club
More Set on Al Marjan Island on the Ras Al Khaimah coast, beside the Al Hamra Golf Club and looking out to the Hajar Mountains

Taking the form of an Arabian palace, the landmark Waldorf Astoria in RAK rises dramatically from the shoreline. The opulent multi-domed hotel brings classic Waldorf facilities and service to the Middle east. On entry, guests are greeted by a 1920s era lobby with a grand piano, vintage furnishings and an elaborate marble-effect fountain. The hotel sits beside an 18-hole golf course and has a lagoon-style pool bordering a section of private beach, tennis courts, an upscale spa, nine restaurants (one of which is reserved for adults), a kids’ club, a playground, regular live DJ sets and 346 rooms.

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Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah
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Abu Dhabi Emirate, Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island

Rosewood Abu Dhabi

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms Deluxe rooms through to Signature Suites, including the Presidential and Pearl Suites.
Amenities Dining from Majlis by Pierre Hermé, Dai Pai Dong and La Cava; Sense, A Rosewood Spa; pool; 24-hour fitness centre; Golf and Beach Club.
More On Al Maryah Island, linked to The Galleria mall in central Abu Dhabi.

Extravagance is the name of the game at the Rosewood with a hotel modelled after the beauty of the Arabian Sea and that evokes a feeling of true relaxation in the middle of the city. Not only does the hotel offer a series of luxurious rooms, but the exclusive suites are a true wonder to behold. The hotel boasts a golf and beach club as well as a fitness centre, pool, and spa. Dining options are varied and include nine bars and restaurants to choose from. No matter what you’re in the mood to eat or drink, there’s something here for everyone.

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Rosewood Abu Dhabi
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Sharjah Emirate, Ajman, Sharjah

The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 65 rooms and suites in Heritage and Pearl categories set around courtyards, from Heritage Rooms up to the Heritage Royal Suite.
Amenities The Restaurant, Nomani, The Café and Al Bareed, a spa with men's and women's suites, outdoor pool, gym, library, museum and cigar lounge
More In the Heart of Sharjah heritage quarter beside Souk Al Arsah, about 25 km from Dubai

The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah – located deep within the old town – is composed of seven adjoining Emirati heritage houses and the property offers 65 bedrooms and suites arranged across a low-rise arrangement of interconnecting buildings, organised around a series of internal courtyards. Facilities include a spa, outdoor swimming pool, gym, a variety of dining venues and a dedicated library. Public areas are set among shaded walkways, ornamental gardens and open-air quadrangles which pay homage to the hotel’s heritage while imbuing it with a secluded, sanctuary-like feel. Guests can enjoy a complimentary luxury transfer service from the timeless elegance of the hotel to the pristine beauty of Al Heera Public Beach.

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The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah
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Abu Dhabi Emirate, Jurayrah

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort By Anantara

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 140 rooms and 14 suites plus 53 pool villas of one to four bedrooms, including secluded Royal Pavilion Pool Villas with private pools.
Amenities Suhail rooftop grill, Amanie (Mediterranean), Al Falaj, Ghadeer and Naseem Pool Bar; Anantara Spa with Moroccan hammam; pool; Technogym fitness; desert activities from camelback trekking to archery.
More Deep in the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) near the Liwa oasis, about 2.5 hours from Abu Dhabi.

Beauty and luxury come together here at the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort. When you aren’t lounging in your perfectly decorated and absolutely luxurious room, you’ll love the lovely desert views and a few hours resting by the pool with a cocktail in hand. In addition to the breathtaking panorama of the hotel and its desert setting, there are also restaurants with breathtaking views next to the pool and on the roof. Enjoy the poolside bar where you can have a meal or snacks with your drinks while you take in the wonder that is the desert surrounding Abu Dhabi.

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Sharjah Emirate, Ajman, Sharjah, Kalbā

Kingfisher Retreat Sharjah

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms 40 tents with private plunge pools, from one-bedroom to the four-bedroom Al Reem family tent
Amenities Al Qurm Restaurant, private plunge pools, barbecue facilities, bespoke dining, conservation experiences
More Set on a mangrove island off Sharjah's east coast, reached only by private boat

Offering something completely different, this resort is in fact set on an island, off the city’s coast. Here, wildlife including turtles, birds and gazelles roam in the Eden-like eco-setting. Guests arrive via a private launch and are accommodated across 20 deluxe tents each with its own private ocean-side pool. Earthy hues encourage the sense of returning to nature, without compromising on comfort. Healthy, organic cuisine is served indoors and out at Al Qurm, or in-room bespoke dining alternatives can be arranged. The Kingfisher Retreat also has a small spa and direct beach access.  access.

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Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence

Four Seasons Resort Dubai At Jumeirah Beach

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms Rooms and suites in classical Arabian style, from Sea-View and Jumeirah Skyline categories up to the Imperial and Royal Suites
Amenities Sea Fu, Jou Jou Brasserie, Nammos, Nusr-Et, Coya, Mimi Kakushi, Scalini and Verde, Mercury Rooftop and Hendricks bars, The Pearl Spa and Wellness Jumeirah, indoor and outdoor pools, 24-hour fitness centre, tennis, private beach
More Set on a private stretch of Jumeirah Beach on Jumeirah Beach Road in Jumeirah 2, with the Arabian Gulf on one side and the Burj Khalifa skyline on the other

Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach features 237 guest rooms and suites, taking classical Arabian design as inspiration. Set along a pristine private stretch of coastline, the resort captures the essence of Dubai luxury with sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf on one side and the Burj Khalifa skyline on the other.

Interiors are elegant, adorned with hand-crafted details, marble bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows opening to private balconies. Guests can enjoy a diverse culinary scene across Mercury Rooftop, Sea Fu, Suq, and Shai Salon, along with an array of lively bars and lounges.

The resort’s tranquil The Pearl Spa & Wellness features 10 treatment rooms, a Moroccan hammam, and two expansive indoor and outdoor pools. With lush gardens, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and easy access to both the beach and city, this resort is an oasis of refined leisure and cosmopolitan flair.

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Four Seasons Resort Dubai At Jumeirah Beach
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Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Bur Dubai

Raffles Dubai

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms Rooms with private city-view balconies and suites detailed in Middle Eastern and Asian design, served by Raffles Butlers.
Amenities Six dining venues including Solo and the Society Room, spa, outdoor pool with poolside restaurant and bar, fitness centre.
More Set in the Wafi district connected to WAFI mall and souk, 10 minutes from Downtown Dubai and 15 from the airport.

Inspired by the pyramids of Egypt, the Raffles Dubai hotel is designed to mix Egyptian culture with Dubai’s contemporary style. All of the hotel’s rooms have customised and handmade ornaments and luxurious fabrics. You’ll be pampered in the extravagant saunas and steam rooms and can enjoy outdoor relaxation by the luxurious swimming pool. The hotel’s 7 restaurants include Japanese cuisine as well as traditional Arabian dishes. If you’re looking to do a little bit of shopping, you can go to Wafi Mall which is right next to the hotel.

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Abu Dhabi Emirate, Abu Dhabi

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms Rooms, Club rooms and suites across the palace, with EP Club executive-lounge tiers and grand connecting suites
Amenities Talea by Antonio Guida, Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi, Hakkasan, Strawfire by Ross Shonhan, ALMA and Vendôme, The Spa with Acqua di Parma, multiple pools, fitness centre, Kids Palace
More Set on a 1.3 km private beach on West Corniche Road, beside Qasr Al Watan and the Founder's Memorial

A true palace, this hotel will never let you down with its lavish design and luxurious hospitality. Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the hotel is near the pristine waters of the sea and also boasts a decadent pool and spa for your rest and relaxation. The rooms and suites are beautifully furnished and have state of the art sound systems, private balconies, and lovely views of the city. Delectable food can be found at any of the hotel’s bars or restaurants, whether you desire a full meal or just a couple of cocktails.

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Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah

Raffles The Palm, Dubai

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms Rooms, suites and private villas described as the most spacious on Palm Jumeirah, in an ornate palatial style.
Amenities Matagi, Piatti by the Beach, Le Jardin and afternoon tea at Blüthner Hall; Cinq Mondes Spa; the largest indoor pool on The Palm; private beach; yoga studio; gym.
More On the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, with a private beach facing the Arabian Gulf.

Palm Jumeirah Island is the address for this plush and lavish 5-star Raffles The Palm. Designed to offer guests profound wellbeing and palatial pleasure. The ornate style of the spacious rooms and suites resonates throughout the rest of the hotel. Hotel guests can enjoy a choice of three upmarket restaurants, each excelling in its speciality cuisine; from contemporary Japanese, alfresco dining through to traditional Afternoon Tea – there is something top suite all tastes and occasions.  The outdoor or indoor pools are a great place to reenergise whilst the private beach area is perfect for those who love the sun. Guests can also make use of the extensive spa facilities, yoga studio and fully equipped gym. Raffles the Palm is perfect for those who enjoy style and variety.

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Raffles The Palm, Dubai
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Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah

One & Only the Palm

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms Rooms, suites and beachfront villas, from Junior Suites to Two-Bedroom Villas, in a low-rise manor-house setting.
Amenities STAY by Yannick Alléno, 101 over-water seafood and Zest; three pools with cabanas; private beach; Guerlain Spa.
More On the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, a private beach facing Dubai Marina across the water.

One & Only The Palm Resort is a jewel in Dubai. Located on the Palm Island, it’s the reflection of stylish and prestigious design. You can enjoy astonishing panoramic views from your suite or take a walk on the lush private beach on the Palm Jumeirah. The One & Only has elegant and spacious rooms, suites as well as villas which are perfect if you’re travelling with your friends or family. The Beach Villas offer customised service and direct access to the amazing private beach. If you’re a fan of healthy dining, make sure you book your table at the over-water Marina Restaurant, Bar & Lounge. Guests can also enjoy dishes offered by the One & Only Royal Mirage in its 7 restaurants. You’ll have to take a water taxi to get there, though.

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