
Best Luxury Hotels in Dubai
Welcome to the dazzling emirate of Dubai, a destination that seamlessly blends the ancient mystique of the Arabian Desert with the cutting-edge modernity of a global metropolis. Located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai is a city that defies expectations, where soaring skyscrapers pierce the desert sky and pristine beaches meet the shimmering waters of the Persian Gulf. With its opulent luxury, diverse cultural experiences, and relentless pursuit of innovation, Dubai has earned its reputation as one of the world’s most iconic and sought-after travel destinations.
Before you choose your favourite five-star hotel in Dubai, read on to learn a little more about this jewel of an emirate destination.
Why Visit: Dubai is a city where luxury living is taken to a whole different level, and it’s the perfect destination for a pamper-filled, glamourous, indulgent and fun holiday. The magnificent hotel facilities mean that guests never have to leave them but beyond the grandeur of these extravagant resorts, is a world where tradition and modernity seamlessly combine. Wander through the historic districts of Al Fahidi and Bastakiya, where ancient wind-tower architecture transports you back in time. Discover the vibrant souks, where you can haggle for exotic spices, textiles, and gold, and witness the enduring Emirati culture that thrives amidst the city’s glittering skyscrapers, shopping malls and luxury boutiques. But Dubai’s allure extends far beyond and offers an array of outdoor adventures, from desert safaris to world-class golf courses, as well as unrivalled gastronomic experiences. Everyone should ‘do’ Dubai at least once in their lives!
Who Goes: Dubai is more than just a playground for the rich and famous, it appeals to families, friends, and couples – there really is something for everyone – its diverse offering attracts thrill-seekers, culture enthusiasts, fashion connoisseurs, and gourmands alike. Dubai promises to exceed your expectations in every way.
When to Visit: Dubai is an ideal choice for winter-sun seekers. The weather is at its best (warm, sunny and not too humid) from November to February with lots of exciting events (including the Rugby 7’s, Dubai Shopping and Food Festival, Dubai World Cup). The warm and sunny weather does tend to extend to April but beyond this expect high temperatures and humidity.
How to Get There: Dubai International Airport is said to be the world’s busiest airport by international passenger traffic. And with designer shopping, celebrity chef dining and many attractions it is an experience in itself. It connects more than 240 destinations across six continents on more than 100 airlines. Dubai International primarily caters to commercial flights, while Al Maktoum International Airport is renowned for its swifter turnaround times and caters more towards private jet passengers.
In the Know: No matter how wonderful your hotel is be sure to venture beyond – one of our favourites is dinner under the stars at a Bedouin camp. This, along with a private guide can be enjoyed at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, approx. an hour’s drive from the city centre or if you have more time stay here for a few days.
Hotel Selection: The hotels we showcase in this collection have been selected by our editors, contributors, or trusted locals based on personal experience or credible recommendations. From the renowned international resorts to the lesser-known boutiques, each hotel must excel in service, design and facilities.

Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah
Royal Central Hotel The Palm

Enjoy exclusive beach access at this funky 207-bedroom hotel with floor-to-ceiling windows proffering direct views of the Arabian Gulf and The Palm, an internationally recognised landmark. Guests can dine at its Royal Grill, Choi (a Pan Asian-themed venue), on Latino street food by the infinity pool at the cabana-lined Hush Beach and all day in the fine La Maison restaurant. Speciality coffees are served at Barista’s Corner, there’s the Tal Spa for a touch of pampering and you can try an array of water sports just steps from your suite. Royal Central Hotel is a 5-star family-friendly resort.

Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah
Sofitel Dubai The Palm

Exuding French elegance and inspired by Polynesia, this hotel is found on the East Crescent of The Palm. Choose between a bedroom, a suite, an apartment or a villa, some with balconies. All accommodations feature onyx, stone and dark wood furnishings, with a colour palette evocative of the South Pacific’s landscapes, the brand’s signature MyBeds, Illy coffee machines, pillow menus and French bath products. This Sofitel has six outdoor swimming pools, a private beach with netted swim areas and its own seaside Laguna Bar, as well as nine more venues in which you can wine and dine.

Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah
Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites

A sprawling resort perched on a stretch of private beach, Rixos The Palm delivers all of the extravagance you’re likely to want from a holiday in the UAE. As well as the aesthetic benefits of its coastal setting, you can enjoy panoramic views of Dubai’s glitzy skyline — including from its semi-olympic size pool and pool bar. There are more places to make a splash within the complex, including two pools designed for kids and families and an adult-only pool. It has 316 bedrooms, the Anjara Spa, a PADI-approved diving centre, watersports facilities, tennis courts, a kids’ club and a full programme of activities and entertainment.

Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah
W Dubai – The Palm

This luxury beach hotel is located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah and offers guests a contemporary accommodation choice. The design is bold and playful, and so is the ambience. There are 349 guest rooms and suites which have been designed not just as a place for guests to rest their heads but to immerse themselves in the wonderful and vibrant world of W. Tough workouts and exercise classes, including aerial yoga, can be taken at the Fitness Centre followed by a relaxing treatment at the Spa or guests can make a splash at the outdoor heated pools. Dining at W Dubai – The Palm can be as glamorous or as relaxed as guests choose; live entertainment, delicious beverages, and a vibrant menu, can be found at the casual adult-only WET Deck whilst the two signature restaurants serve a more sophisticated vibe. The kids club is open 7 days a week for guests aged 4-12 years old.

Dubai Emirate, Dubai
Fairmont the Palm

The Fairmont Resort is found on the exclusive Palm Jumeirah and is an ideal five-star hotel for a luxurious stay in Dubai. The 381 amazingly designed rooms and suites are all family-friendly. Fine dining is at the heart of this resort and you can enjoy exquisite dishes in its 10 restaurants ranging from Brazilian to international cuisine. The resort has four temperature-controlled swimming pools and offers access to a private beach for unique relaxation and fun. Guests can work out at the fitness centre and health club and relax at the award-winning Spa.

Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah
Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah

Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah is only a 3-minute walk away from the beach and is located on the amazing Palm Jumeirah. The 244 luxurious suites, villas, and penthouses guarantee 5-star accommodation overlooking the lagoon or Arabian Gulf. Guests can enjoy fine dining at any of the four restaurants and bars. The Brunello Restaurant serves exquisite Mediterranean dishes while the K-West Bar is the perfect place to enjoy your evening cocktails. For a bit of shopping, you can browse through the shops inside the resort or visit the nearby Mall of the Emirates.
Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah

Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah
Atlantis the Palm

The Atlantis The Palm offers extraordinary views of the Arabian Gulf and has an amazing underwater aquarium. The Atlantis’s rooms have an oceanic-inspired décor and feature Arabian styles. Culinary experiences are diverse at the Atlantis. The restaurants serve from traditional Chinese dining at the Yuan restaurant to Japanese cuisine at the Nobu or British dishes at Gordon Ramsay’s. Guests are offered complimentary access to Aquaventure which is the most famous water park in the Middle East where you can enjoy thrilling slides at the Tower of Neptune or the Tower of Poseidon.

Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Downtown Dubai
Armani Hotel Dubai

This Armani Hotel occupies 11 floors of the Burj Khalifa skyscraper, but it has a separate private entrance. All rooms have Japanese tatami furnishing and lush fabrics. A prestigious dining experience is offered by each of the hotel’s 7 restaurants. For a night to remember make sure you go to the Armani Privé club. If you want to relax, you can enjoy the luxurious Armani Spa to enjoy special treatments with exclusive products.

Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Bur Dubai
Raffles Dubai

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.

Dubai Emirate, Dubai
Al Habtoor Palace, Preferred Hotels & Resorts

Al Habtoor Palace is situated in the heart of Al Habtoor City on the banks of the Dubai Water Canal. This stunning 5-star hotel is an ode to the great palaces and hotels of Europe and presents 182 guest rooms and 52 suites. Each room is elegant and stylishly designed with a tailored butler service for some accommodation options. Dining is a refined affair with a choice of eight different venues; including the award-winning World Cut Steakhouse, exquisite Afternoon tea lounges, champagne lounge and sports bar. The Silk Spa offers a range of luxurious treatments, along with steam and sauna facilities and a 24-hour fitness centre is onsite for the more active guests along with indoor tennis courts at the adjacent sporting facilities. A rooftop pool and private beach are also available for guests’ leisure. A stay here offers sumptuous experiences with tailored services and meticulous attention to detail – the ideal place to stay for sophisticated global travellers.
Al Habtoor Palace, Preferred Hotels & Resorts

Dubai Emirate, Dubai, Bur Dubai
Palazzo Versace Dubai

The Palazzo Versace is located in the centre of the Culture Village and is an 8-minute walk from Downtown Dubai. The hotel’s interior design is custom-made by the House of Versace. The 215 hotel rooms and suites, as well as the 169 residences, have tailor-made Italian furnishing. The hotel offers excellent fine dining in its 8 restaurants with al-fresco terraces and 3 spectacular pools featuring mosaic tiles. For a bit of fun, The Palazzo Versace offers complimentary access to Nikki Beach Resort & Spa’s pools and beach.

Dubai Emirate, Dubai
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

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.