23

The Lana

Dubai

Quiet luxury in a city known for over-the-top extravagance

Give me the lowdown: The Lana arrived in Dubai in 2024, answering residents’ and travellers’ calls for a quieter version of the flashy-luxe stereotype the city has become synonymous with. The Dorchester Collection’s Middle East debut, the property sits on the newly developed Marasi Bay Marina – a mammoth interconnecting dual-tower structure that’s home to dining icons like China Tang, the region’s first Dior Spa and an afternoon tea to rival The Dorchester’s in London.

What’s the vibe? Peaceful, understated and with the feeling of a collection of private residences, The Lana whispers rather than shouts. The same goes for its guests, who are largely businesspeople and local Emiratis. The hotel’s signature claret colour scheme weaves its way into just about everything: the design, the top-hatted and tailcoated bellman and the afternoon tea. A muted palette of pinks and whites prevails throughout, from designer florist Philip Hammond’s three-metre urn in the lobby, spilling with eucalyptus, lilies and white and pink roses, to the soft-toned rooms.

Tell me about those rooms: Rooms and suites offer views over the dusty Dubai suburbs or Marasi Bay Marina and the Downtown Skyline; the latter offers spectacular views of the Burj Khalifa. Hues riff off the signature Lana claret, with rose and blush shades in tactile finishes like leather and velvet – completed by rose quartz, marble and sleek walnut accents. Dyson hairdryers, soaking tubs and mattresses from the same supplier who stocks Buckingham Palace cement its Dorchester Collection-worthy status.

Eating and drinking: The Lana has some big expectations to live up to and the roll-out has begun on its culinary stars. Open now are Riviera by Jean Imbert, straight from Paris’ Hôtel Plaza Athénée, and its rooftop sister, High Society, with a front-row seat of the tallest building in the world. Jara by Martín Berasategui celebrates the eponymous chef’s celebrated Basque cuisine in a red-hued dining room and terrace. China Tang will also open in the upcoming months. Afternoon tea is served in the shimmering white and pink lobby with classic English sandwiches, scones and French patisserie by Angelo Musa.

How should I spend a day? The Lana is, first and foremost, a city hotel and life largely revolves around the amenities indoors. There’s an ultra-modern fitness centre and the glamorous (and eternally booked up, Dior Spa) but, to breathe in the marina air, head to the sweeping terrace or rooftop pool to soak in its cinematic skyline views.

Key Information