Best Design Hotels in United Arab Emirates

Located in the bustling The Beach within Jumeirah Beach Residence, The Address Beach Resort provides a family-friendly beachfront view with luxurious rooms, suites and residences in Dubai. The beachfront resort is not only home to the world’s tallest infinity rooftop pool with stunning views, it also offers guests an abundance of activities including family and adult-only swimming pools, 24/7 fitness centre with personal trainers, direct access to beachfront activities and water sports, and a first-class spa and wellness centre. With its superb selection of restaurants, ranging from light-bites by the pool to delicious Asian-fusion dishes served in the outdoor oasis of ZETA Seventy-Seven, there is something for every taste and occasion.

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.

If you really want to escape the rat race, come to the ancient dunes of the Al Wadi Desert. An uber-luxury take on Bedouin living, the accommodation includes tent-style buildings and mud-brick villas (all of which have their own infinity pools). The settlement is on Al Wadi Nature Reserve, so expect to spy plenty of gazelles and antelope. And there’s an abundance of unusual excursions organised by The Ritz-Carlton – both for kids and adults. Farmhouse restaurant served produce from its own smokehouse and garden, plus there’s Kaheela for small plates and the Samar or Lobby Lounges for drinks and lighter bites. The spa has a hydrotherapy circuit, a rainforest experience and 10 regal pavilions.

The InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa, is the first property for the luxury brand, IHG Hotels & Resorts in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. Located on the sparkling shoreline of Hayat Island, just a 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, the five-star haven brings the InterContinental life to the Arabian Peninsula, combining idyllic island-style living with the warm hospitality of authentic Arabia. The resort comprises 351 sea-view rooms, suites and private pool villas – all of which are elegantly appointed and offer guests the latest technology and in-room services. Guests can enjoy six different dining options all of which boast a varied menu and offering; ranging from a trendy New York inspired hang-out to the terrace for al-fresco dining. With a superb selection of day-time activities, state-of-the art health club, spa and a children’s club, guests of every age can tailor a holiday to keep them as active or as relaxed as they wish. Club InterContinental guests receive elevated privileges which includes a dedicated check-in area and access to the exclusive Club InterContinental Lounge with its own pool, as well as lavish à la carte breakfasts, afternoon teas and a range of evening cocktails crafted by the on-site mixologist.

The Four Seasons name is one that you know will always deliver luxury and opulence and this hotel is no exception. Location within a collection of 200 islands, the hotel calls to business travellers, but is also a destination for vacationers and shoppers. The Dahlia Spa offers an extensive selection of decadent treatments including a variety of massage options. There’s also a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city to be had. Each room is thoughtfully decorated and ready to welcome you right in for a relaxing place to unwind and enjoy some downtime.

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi is an award-winning beach resort that presents guests with a seamless experience of old-world charm and new age culture. Rooms and suites are spacious and sleek, with all the modern-day amenities a guest would expect from a Park Hyatt hotel. Depending on the room or suite type chosen, guests can enjoy unrivalled views of the Arabian Gulf, landscaped gardens, and a private pool and terrace. For guests that enjoy action there are plenty of activities within the resort including; tennis courts, a fully equipped gym, water sports, a spa and wellness centre and kids club – to name a few and in the nearby area guests can enjoy a round or two at the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club which is just a short walk away, explore the coastal habitats on a boat tour or take in the hustle and bustle of the cultural capital. The resort boasts a wonderful range of cuisine served in its three restaurants; from all-day casual dining to an elegant experience guests will not be disappointed. A great choice for an all-round luxury experience.

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.

This uber-trendy hotel places you at the heart of the cultural action in the Al Taawun area of town. The rooms here have an urban-chic style, with plenty of mod cons, such as wireless Bose music players, huge TVs, dining areas (even in the standard category of rooms) and Roger & Gallet bath products. Coffee is served in the lobby bar, while the Al Khan restaurant has live cooking stations and an adventurous menu served day and night, as well as frequent all-you-can-eat seafood banquets. Fresh juices and snacks can be enjoyed by the infinity pool by day and guests have access to the spa and fitness centre.

Located in striking Opus building in the cultural heart of Dubai, the ME Dubai is a cosmopolitan hotel designed to be more than just a hotel, connecting guests with a combination of art, cuisine, fashion and music. Designed by Zaha Hadid, ME Dubai offers architecture and design lovers something to marvel at with a spectacle of a façade and intricate masterpieces that adorn the interiors. The minimalistic style flows through the rooms and suites – many of which boast Instagrammable views across the city. From a contemporary expression of Japanese Robatayaki cuisine in Roka to gin and tonics and gastro bites in Botanica or a flavour of South America in Deseo to a world-class selection of delicacies in The Atrium by Zaha Hadid there is something for every international gourmand. The span and wellness centre is a haven for relaxation, whilst energetic guests can make use of the rooftop pool or ultra-modern Technogym Biocircuit gym.

If you want to feel like royalty, make sure you stay at the Burj Al Arab Hotel. Located on its own island, the Burj Al Arab features ultra-modern and splendid suite. All of the Burj Al Arab suites have floor-to-ceiling windows and are equipped with ultimate technology. The hotel’s 9 restaurants and great staff will make sure you enjoy excellent dining experiences. If you’re a thrill-seeker, go ahead and drink a cocktail or have your coffee at the Sky View Bar which is suspended 200 metres above sea level.

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.

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.