Dubai Hotels

Set away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai proper, the Desert Palm Dubai is a peaceful spot that conspicuously lacks the bling that characterises many of the city’s ultra-luxe hotels. Gorgeous gardens and a full-size polo field surround it, while the onsite spa is particularly good.

Housed inside one of Dubai’s most iconic towers, the Burj Al Arab hotel has become a byword for bling – largely as a result of its eye-catching gold and turquoise interior décor. Famous for hosting sports stars and other celebrities, it boasts a helipad on the roof as well as a slew of eye-wateringly expensive restaurants and a spa.

The world’s first Armani hotel occupies the lower floors of the Burj Khalifa and is a study in modern luxury. It handsomely eschews the bling of other hotels, opting instead for linear corridors that resemble a catwalk. The rooms and the slightly Spartan lobby are full of stylish touches too.

Few business hotels come with a lobby floor decorated with mosaic tiles made from real gold, but then again, this is Dubai. Away from the lobby, things are a bit less bling and very comfortable – think huge cushions and beds with crisp, white sheets. It also boasts good restaurants and an excellent spa.

These two ultra-modern skyscrapers are among the tallest buildings in the Middle East. Part office, part hotel, each state-of-the-art room is geared towards business guests and have all the essentials, including super-speedy Wi-Fi. Although most of the rooms are ultra-modern, the deluxe rooms come with their own opulent chaises longue.

Perched at the tip of the Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis is half theme park and half luxury hotel. The lobby is dominated by a vast and hideous glass sculpture, while the famous aquarium ran into trouble shortly after opening thanks to concerns over the resident whale shark. That said, if it’s ostentation you’re after, Atlantis is perfect.

Sunglasses at the ready – Dubai’s EasyHotel is almost entirely decked out in the Easy brand’s trademark bright orange and white. That said, the hotel is comfortable and super-cheap, and offers free Wi-Fi in all of its rooms. The main downside is the location – Jebel Ali is about 25km (16 miles) from Jumeirah.

Citymax has targeted the budget market in a bold way, opening large properties in Al Barsha and in the heart of the central Bur Dubai district. Its Al Barsha hotel is conveniently close to Mall of the Emirates and boasts comfortable, clean rooms – all within striking distance of the beaches and nightlife of the Marina.

Conveniently located near the airport, Al Bustan Rotana's rooms include the 'Club Rotana' executive floor and a range of luxurious suites. The first floor rooms offer direct access to the outdoor pool and tennis courts. The hotel also has an excellent Thai restaurant onsite as well as a decent spa.

Set in one of Dubai’s many shopping, culinary and entertainment destinations, InterContinental Dubai Festival City offers a luxury yet affordable experience. It is also conveniently located by a massive Event Centre, with exclusive direct access to Dubai Festival City Mall.