All products and services featured are independently selected by Forbes Vetted contributors and editors. When you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission. Learn more
Sarah Gamboni, Contributor
Forbes Vetted
Once a sleepy pearling village, Dubai has risen from the sand dunes to become one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Blending coastal cool with a cosmopolitan atmosphere, the jewel of the United Arab Emirates lures tourists with year-round sunshine and record-breaking attractions. The best hotels in Dubai are destinations in themselves, with world-class spas, opulent suites and Michelin-starred fine dining.
Sun-seeking couples and families favor seaside resorts, such as the Four Seasons Resort Dubai or Atlantis, The Palm, which are situated along Jumeirah Beach and Palm Jumeirah, the man-made palm-shaped island that’s visible from space. For business travelers, a roll call of luxury hotels, like The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Center, can be found in the heart of the fast-paced city. Below, the best hotels in Dubai in 2024.
- Best High-End Hotel In Dubai: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
- Best Boutique Hotel In Dubai: One&Only The Palm
- Best Beachfront Hotel In Dubai: Four Seasons Resort Dubai At Jumeirah Beach
- Best Hotel For Business Travelers In Dubai: The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Center
- Best Hotel For Families In Dubai: Atlantis, The Palm
- Best Hotel For Couples In Dubai: Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa, Dubai
- Hotel With The Best Amenities In Dubai: Atlantis The Royal
- Best Island Hotel In Dubai: Bulgari Resort Dubai
- Best For Design Lovers In Dubai: ME Dubai Hotel
- Best Hotel In Old Dubai: XVA Art Hotel
- Best Spa And Wellness Hotel In Dubai: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Best High-End Hotel In Dubai: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Who Will Love It: Maximalists seeking over-the-top opulence and seven-star service
All-Star Amenities: Lavish interiors; sumptuous Talise Spa; infinity pool perched over the sea
What Not To Miss: A sun-kissed Mediterranean lunch at poolside restaurant Sal
Location: Jumeirah Beach
Address: Jumeirah St Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai 74147 United Arab Emirates
Minimalists move along. From the 21,500 square feet of 24-karat gold leaf that line the walls to the 21,000 Swarovski crystals embedded in the ceiling, the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is the epitome of Arabian opulence. Built in 1999, this sail-shaped icon off the Dubai coastline is regarded as the world’s first seven-star hotel. With its fleet of chauffeured Rolls-Royce cars and ask-for-anything service, the all-suite retreat has long been a favorite among celebrities and dignitaries—Andre Agassi and Roger Federer famously played a tennis match on the hotel’s sky high helipad in 2005. Burj Al Arab Jumeirah’s star power shows no signs of waning, enhanced by Michelin-starred restaurant Al Muntaha. Don’t miss the Terrace, a 108,000-square-foot deck featuring private cabanas, an adults-only infinity pool, a family pool and a chic Mediterranean restaurant overlooking the water’s edge.
Best Boutique Hotel In Dubai: One&Only The Palm
One&Only The Palm
Who Will Love It: Romantics and sybarites
All-Star Amenities: Guerlain Spa; exquisite French dining; VIP poolside cabanas
What Not To Miss: The tasting menu at two-Michelin-star restaurant Stay by Yannick Alléno
Location: Palm Jumeirah
Address: West Crescent The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai 114843 United Arab Emirates
A secluded sanctuary on Palm Jumeirah, One&Only The Palm is primed for an intimate getaway. The graceful Andalusian architecture evokes Grenada’s Alhambra with delicate carvings, colonnaded walkways and flickering lanterns throughout the manicured grounds. With just 94 guest rooms, the hotel is petite for Dubai standards but still offers luxurious amenities like oversized marble bathrooms and expansive terraces with sea views. Situated just steps from the sand, the private pool suites are a perfect choice for couples, while families will feel right at home in the two-bedroom beachfront villas complete with a dedicated host. Spend the day relaxing by the sapphire swimming pool, where air-conditioned cabanas offer minibars, sun loungers and indoor-outdoor showers. World-class dining comes courtesy of French culinary master Yannick Alléno. His eponymous Stay by Yannick Alléno was one of only two restaurants to be awarded two Michelin stars in Dubai’s inaugural guide.
Best Beachfront Hotel In Dubai: Four Seasons Resort Dubai At Jumeirah Beach
Four Seasons Resort Dubai At Jumeirah Beach
Who Will Love It: Fans of the classic beachfront resort experience
All-Star Amenities: Private palm-fringed beach; lagoon-style pool; upscale restaurants
What Not To Miss: Asian-inspired seafood dishes with beachfront view at Sea Fu restaurant
Location: Jumeirah Beach
Address: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 2 Jumeirah 2, Dubai 12877 United Arab Emirates
In a city where new hotels seem to spring up overnight, there’s a timeless allure to the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach. Modeled on the traditional wind towers of the region, it seems like it could have been around for a century rather than since 2014, with its intricately carved archways and gleaming marble interiors. The property’s enviable position on Jumeirah Beach is a 10-minute drive from Downtown Dubai and the DIFC—not that you’ll need to leave. The expansive grounds feature two lagoon-style swimming pools and a private stretch of beach lined with shaded sun loungers. Guest rooms with high ceilings and balconies or terraces with views of the Arabian Sea or glittering Dubai skyline only add to the grandeur. The resort is also home to an array of internationally inspired eateries, from Turkish steakhouse Nusr-et to the Mykonos-inspired Nammos Dubai.
Best Hotel For Business Travelers In Dubai: The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Center
The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Center
Who Will Love It: Business travelers who crave connectivity and contemporary comfort
All-Star Amenities: 24-hour fitness center; business concierge; polished restaurants perfect for closing the deal
What Not To Miss: A celebratory single malt at Flair 5
Location: Dubai International Financial Center
Address: Gate Village, DIFC, off Sheikh Zayed Road, PO Box 482032, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
With more than 28,000 square feet of event space, one of the city’s largest ballrooms and a well-connected location in the heart of the financial center, this Art Deco-inspired hotel is a favorite among business travelers. Modern guest rooms offer ample space to unwind, with high-speed internet, complimentary shoe shines and town cars on request. Upgrade to a Club Level suite for access to the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, which offers all-day refreshments and a dedicated business concierge. After a day of meetings, let off steam with a workout in the 24-hour fitness center, a signature massage in the sleek spa, or swim laps in the rooftop pool, which is chilled or heated, depending on the season. A client dinner of mussels and steak at Café Belge or single malt scotch at Flair 5 lounge is sure to close the deal.
Best Hotel For Families In Dubai: Atlantis, The Palm
Atlantis, The Palm
Who Will Love It: Families seeking fun, sun and sea
All-Star Amenities: World’s largest water park; Underwater Suites; family-friendly dining from celebrity chefs
What Not To Miss: Speeding down waterslides at Aquaventure waterpark
Location: Palm Jumeirah
Address: Crescent Road The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai 211222 United Arab Emirates
Home to the world’s largest waterpark, Atlantis, The Palm is a fun-filled getaway for water lovers of all ages. Young travelers will appreciate the vivid underwater frescoes while adults will appreciate the signature Underwater Suites with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto an aquarium with 65,000 marine creatures. On the resort grounds, there are temperature controlled swimming pools, a private white sand beach and thrilling watersports. Aquaventure Waterpark—access is complimentary for resort guests—has record-breaking slides and rides and shark diving in the aquarium. Challenge your tribe to a round of 10-pin bowling at Wavehouse, an all-ages entertainment hub with arcade games, live music and laidback outdoor dining. Many of the restaurants, like Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen, have kid-friendly menus, but you can also book a babysitter for a date night at Nobu, Hakkasan or Ossiano, a romantic restaurant with views of the aquarium.
Best Hotel For Couples In Dubai: Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa, Dubai
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa, Dubai
Who Will Love It: Adventurous couples craving alone time under the stars
All-Star Amenities: Bedouin-style tents with private pools; in-suite dining; curated desert adventures
What Not To Miss: Spotting wild oryx and gazelles as you sip a sundowner
Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Address: Dubai-Al Ain Road Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Murqquab, Dubai 118887 United Arab Emirates
A 45-minute drive from Downtown Dubai, Al Maha is a world away from the city’s bustling business district. Here, among the russet-colored dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, sits a collection of 42 Bedouin-inspired tents. This is not your average camping experience. Each of the luxury tented suites is filled with local antiques and handcrafted furnishings, and private plunge pools overlook an endless expanse of desert. A popular spot for honeymoons and anniversary getaways, this property is a perfect addition to a romantic itinerary—especially for nature lovers. Watch camels, oryx and gazelles casually saunter by from the comfort of your sun lounge. For an even more up close wildlife encounter, Al Maha’s field guides lead safaris through the reserve via 4×4, camel or horseback. Try your hand at falconry or archery, or simply enjoy a sundowner as the sun slips behind the dunes and the sky fills with stars.
Hotel With The Best Amenities In Dubai: Atlantis The Royal
Atlantis The Royal
Who Will Love It: Luxury travelers seeking Dubai’s new frontier of grandeur
All-Star Amenities: 90 swimming pools; 17 restaurants and bars; access to the world’s largest water park at Atlantis, The Palm; gold-colored grooming set; Graff toiletries; largest jellyfish aquarium in the world
What Not To Miss: The water and fire fountain shows; poolside dining at Nobu By The Beach
Location: Palm Jumeirah
Address: Crescent Road Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
One of the most extravagant hotels in Dubai, Atlantis The Royal attracted worldwide attention when it opened in 2023 with a flashy reveal party featuring a performance by Beyoncé. Since then, the mega-resort has proved there’s substance behind all the glitz—especially for lovers of top-notch amenities and service. The property ticks off an impressive array of superlatives. It’s home to the world’s largest collection of celebrity chef-branded restaurants, the biggest jellyfish aquarium on earth and the longest privately owned stretch of beach in Dubai. Guests can easily spend their entire stay on the property, dining at the 17 restaurants and bars, dipping into multiple pools or indulging in spa treatments and hypno-healing at the spa. The amenities in the 795 guest rooms are just as decadent (you’ll want to take home a golden toothbrush). Those with deep pockets can check into a suite or penthouse with a private infinity pool overlooking the Dubai skyline or upgrade to the Royal Mansion for a taste of Beyoncé-level pampering.
Best Island Hotel In Dubai: Bulgari Resort Dubai
Bulgari Resort Dubai
Who Will Love It: Sophisticates seeking privacy
All-Star Amenities: Private yacht club; cabana-lined pool; sophisticated dining; indoor spa pool
What Not To Miss: Exquisite Italian at Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, and a splurge in the Bulgari boutique
Location: Jumeirah Bay Island
Address: Jumeira Bay Island, Jumeira 2, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Situated on a seahorse-shaped island off the coast of Jumeirah, Bulgari Resort Dubai blends European glamor with Middle Eastern tradition. The coral-like awnings are inspired by the region’s intricately carved mashrabiya or screens, but the luxury Italian brands’ flair for opulence is on full display. Sleek Bulgari marble is a featured throughout the communal areas and sumptuous guest rooms, offset by black granite and expansive glass walls have windows framing the turquoise sea. The jewel box spa has multiple pools including a vitality pool inspired by the ancient Caracalla Roman baths. You will want to dress the part whether sporting designer swimwear by the pool or a crisp linen shirt for lunch at the Bulgari Yacht Club overlooking the resort’s marina. Make an extra effort for dinner at Il Ristorante – Niko Romito. The two-Michelin-starred restaurant serves flawless Milanese cuisine. Or secure a coveted booking at Hōseki, an omakase experience with just nine chef’s counter seats.
Best Hotel For Architecture Lovers In Dubai: ME Dubai Hotel
ME Dubai Hotel
Who Will Love It: Design devotees
All-Star Amenities: Zaha Hadid architecture; eye catching interiors; rooftop pool
What Not To Miss: Sushi on the terrace of Japanese restaurant Roka
Location: Business Bay
Address: Al Amal Street The Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay, Dubai 333371 United Arab Emirates
The only hotel to be designed by the late, great Zaha Hadid, ME Dubai Hotel displays her signature style of sinuous structures and organic forms. Housed in the mirrored Opus building in Business Bay, the hotel’s retro-futuristic interiors are straight from The Jetsons. The soaring atrium is a curvaceous and light-filled space with aubergine-colored pods for casual meetings and a coffee shop. The futuristic theme carries over into guest rooms with curved leather beds and undulating artworks inspired by desert dunes. With a view of Business Bay’s towering skyscrapers, the rooftop swimming pool is an urban oasis for travelers mixing work and play. The on-site dining options are just as creative, from sushi and grilled Japanese specialities at Roka to plant-forward fare at Sfumato.
Best Hotel In Old Dubai: XVA Art Hotel
XVA Art Hotel
Who Will Love It: Travelers who love history and culture
All-Star Amenities: Art gallery; bespoke rooms; sun-dappled courtyard restaurant
What Not To Miss: Getting lost in the alleyways of Al Fahidi
Location: Al Fahidi Historical District
Address: Al Fahidi St Opp Musallah Post Office, Near Dubai Museum, Dubai United Arab Emirates
Hidden among the charming alleyways of Al Fahidi Historical District in Old Dubai, this bijou bolt-hole is one of the city’s cultural treasures. Once the home of a prominent merchant family, the 15-room boutique hotel is set within a typical Emirati house featuring sandy toned stucco and soaring wind towers, the region’s original air conditioning method. Dubai heritage is also highlighted in the Bedouin-style textiles and original works by local artists on display in the art gallery, gift shop and individually-decorated guest rooms. At the heart of the hotel sits the XVA Café, a vine-shaded courtyard serving vegetarian Middle Eastern cuisine—the frozen lemon and mint drink is a must in summer. Beyond the hotel’s carved timber doors, Old Dubai’s souks are waiting to be explored. Take a traditional wooden boat or abra across Dubai Creek for an authentic and memorable experience.
Best Spa And Wellness Hotel In Dubai: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Who Will Love It: Spa aficionados, plus beach-loving families
All-Star Amenities: One of West Asia’s most sumptuous day spas; 10 restaurants; oversized marble baths
What Not To Miss: An authentic Turkish hammam session at Talise Ottoman Spa
Location: Palm Jumeirah
Address: West Crescent Road The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai United Arab Emirates
You can tell a lot about a hotel by the quality of its bathtubs, and the oversized versions set within carved marble alcoves at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray are grand indeed. It’s on-brand for this opulent Ottoman-inspired resort, which elevates pampering to an artform. The hotel on Palm Jumeirah’s West Crescent has a spa spanning more than 86,000 square feet. Access to the wet areas is included in your stay, inviting you to slip between the steam rooms, snow caves, saunas and saltwater pools. Treatments inspired by Ottoman heritage include a Turkish hammam session on a heated marble slab and an intensive black diamond facial. The pampering continues beyond the spa in guest rooms with Turkish marble baths and Arabian sea views. There are also 10 restaurants, a 190-foot-long pool and a private beach where doting attendants will be happy to clean your sunglasses while you soak in some rays. Junior guests will love the mini water park and private cinema.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
- The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe.
- The travel section is overseen by Vetted’s senior travel editor, Astrid Taran, a 7-year industry veteran who’s visited over 35 countries.
- The writer of each of our hotel roundups is handpicked based on their area of expertise, whether they are area locals or avid travelers who have visited the destination frequently—and all have bylines in other reputable travel publications. The original author of this story, Sarah Gamboni, is based in Dubai and has a deep understanding of the city and its hotel scene.
- This story is regularly checked to ensure that all prices and information are as current as possible. It was last updated in August 2024 by Forbes Vetted contributor Julia Eskins, who assessed superlatives and added in the recently opened Atlantis The Royal, which she highly recommends for its amenities.
About Sarah Gamboni, Your Dubai Guide
I have been a travel and food writer for close to two decades. I’ve reviewed the world’s best boutique hotels as an editor at Mr&Mrs Smith and sought out authentic flavors in far-flung destinations from Sicily to Sri Lanka. My love of endless sunshine and pristine beaches led me to live in Australia, Thailand and Hong Kong. For the past five years, I’ve lived in Dubai where I’ve worked as a restaurant and hotel reviewer keeping my finger firmly on the pulse of this fast-paced city. I’ve also written travel guides and articles for Emirates Open Skies, British Airways High Life, Gourmet Traveller, Mercedes-Benz Magazine, Delicious, Vogue Entertaining + Travel and many more.