Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai dazzles. It's home to the tallest buildings on earth; the biggest shopping mall (complete with an aquarium and Olympic-sized ice rink); Palm Jumeirah, the largest artificial archipelago on the planet; and the world’s glitziest hotels and restaurants. As you’d expect from this city of superlatives, the Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai – the brand’s Middle Eastern debut – exceeds all expectations. It may be minutes from high-octane Downtown, but it feels a world away, set in the relaxed neighbourhood of Jumeirah. Rather than its towering neighbours, the hotel is low-rise with a private stretch of beach lapped by the Arabian Gulf. Inside, no expense has been spared. Rows of bronze tree sculptures line the lobby, their crystal leaves glowing as dusk falls, and the Asian-Arabian decor is on the right side of opulent. Rooms are elegantly-appointed, and the spa is a standard setter. No less than eight restaurants and bars keep guests fed and watered - the hot tickets are Netsu by Ross Shonhan, which showcases the traditional Japanese technique of Warayaki (straw fire cooking), while the Portuguese-inspired Tasca by José Avillez is where a glam local crowd gather at the weekends for sangrias, charcoal-grilled fish and pasteis de natas.

Key Information

• Rooms: 256
• Starting Rate: $579
• High Season: October-April
• Dining: Tasca and Netsu
• Drinking: Sun Vibe
• At the Hotel: Spa, heat and water experiences, gym, private beach, swimming pool
• 971 4 777 2222
• Visit Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai's Website

Location

Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeira 1, Dubai, PO Box 62092