Atlantis The Royal: The New Crown Jewel of Dubai

Imagine a hotel so spectacular that Beyoncé herself was recruited to unveil it and you have Atlantis The Royal. Opened in January 2023 with a three-day celebration, it’s clear they’re not playing around, with 795 rooms, an impressive 17 restaurants, and the world’s largest jellyfish aquarium.

The moment you step into the reception, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of understated glamour. The space is massive – even bigger than Atlantis, The Palm, but again surprisingly calm. Subtly divided into club and non-club sections (though you’d hardly notice the difference), the area feels distinctly upmarket with designer shops lining the walkways, giving you a hint of the exclusivity that awaits. The location pretty incredible too, sitting literally next door to its older sibling, which means easy (and complimentary) access to the Aquaventure Waterpark without the usual hustle, and an added bonus for Club Suite guests who can enter directly through the property.

There are four main categories of accommodation here: Seacape, Palmscape, Club, and Sky – with the latter offering some seriously luxurious suite and villa options (and access to the Club Lounge throughout the day). Accommodation throughout is light and spacious, with spectacular views and – a touch of pure glamour – gold-adorned bathroom amenities; while confirmed connecting options are a real bonus for families.

The pool situation is particularly interesting at Atlantis The Royal, with three pools to choose from: The Royal Pool (open to all and wonderfully relaxed), the Nobu Beach Pool (adults-only), and Cloud 22 – another adults-only option where access comes at an additional cost and pre-booking is recommended. For me, this was an absolute highlight – it’s clearly one of Dubai’s hottest people-watching spots, with superb poolside cocktails and snacks, great service and spectacular views– I could have spent hours just taking it all in.

For anyone wanting to experience the pinnacle of Dubai’s contemporary hospitality, with a real ‘see and be seen’ ambience, I can wholeheartedly say that Atlantis The Royal should be added to your travel bucket list.

Bab Al Shams: A Desert Oasis of Tranquillity

Nestled around 43 miles from Dubai’s iconic Palm, Bab Al Shams sits majestically within the Al Marmoum Desert Conservation Reserve – the UAE’s first unfenced nature sanctuary. Designed to resemble a fortified Arabian village, and seamlessly blending into its rugged desert surroundings, this is a place that’s less about glitz and more about authentic desert experiences.

Originally established in 2004, the property has undergone several transformations: the most recent being its acquisition by the Kerzner Group in February 2023 who breathed new life into the already charming desert retreat with a comprehensive renovation. The diverse accommodation options go from classic contemporary rooms, to suites and expansive Desert Pool Villas: all adorned in light beige tones that echo the hotel’s interior palette and all with unparalleled comfort, picturesque views and modern Arabian flair.

Bab Al Shams doesn’t disappoint when it comes to culinary delights either. Ninive restaurant, inspired by the mystical world of 1001 Arabian Nights, offers an exceptional dining experience. During our visit, the set menu showcased excellent cuisine, complemented by impeccable service that truly elevated the dining experience.

The real magic of Bab Al Shams however lies in its smorgasbord of desert activities that’ll make your friends green with envy. A haven for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike, the latter can immerse themselves in a host of experiences that capture the spirit of the Arabian landscape, from the heart-pumping excitement of dune bashing, camel riding and hot air balloon trips. Wildlife lovers meanwhile will love the opportunity to observe the local fauna, including graceful gazelles, diverse bird species, and curious geckos that all call this conservation reserve home.

Top tip: Dubai’s notorious traffic can turn what should be a straightforward hour-long journey into the desert into a two-hour expedition, so savvy visitors would be wise to plan their transfers around 11am to strategically avoid peak rush hours.

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Jumeriah Burj Al Arab: The Iconic Grande Dame

No trip to Dubai is complete without a nod to the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. Opened in 1999, this landmark of luxury has become synonymous with Dubai’s opulence and 25 years later remains one of the most desirable all-suite hotels to stay in. While it may not boast the latest in technological innovation, it more than makes up for it with its timeless appeal, impeccable, formal-yet-friendly service and panoramic views that would make even the most seasoned traveller pause in appreciation.

At over 1800 square feet, the ‘standard’ Duplex Suites – with Marina or Palm views – are really quite something. Sprawling across two levels, they come with a vast living area, a lavish bathroom with an oversized tub and thoughtful Hermès amenities. Dining, though expensive, is spectacularly good. From the casual Beach Club Sal to the one Michelin-starred Al Muntaha and two-Michelin-Starred Ristorante L’Olico at Al Mahara, there’s an experience to suit every palate. For those seeking a more traditional interlude, afternoon tea at Sahn Eddar offers a quintessentially British moment in the heart of Dubai; while, each evening, guests are treated to a delightful ritual of sunset canapés and a chilled glass of rosé – a small but memorable touch.

The Burj Al Arab Terrace is a remarkable, 10,000 square metre, one-of-a-kind restaurant, pool, beach and cabana space that stretches 100 metres out into the sea. Home to SAL – the elegant beach club that seemingly floats over the glittering Gulf – and two stunning pools: the freshwater family-friendly pool providing the perfect setting for socialising, and the adults-only saltwater infinity pool – an irresistible escape above the sea. Four Jacuzzis and picturesque views complete this aquatic paradise, creating a much-needed and thoroughly memorable waterside experience.

Wellness enthusiasts will be delighted by the award-winning Talise Spa and well-equipped gym; and a resident yoga instructor, Adrienne Everett, offers private lessons that have become increasingly popular. And for those looking to explore Dubai further, the hotel’s proximity to Madinat Jumeirah – with complimentary buggy services – offers a whole other dimension to your stay.

One&Only One Za’abeel: Modern Luxury in the City

For those who love a bit of architectural drama, One&Only One Za’abeel is a must-visit. Recognised in March 2024 by Guinness World Records as the world’s longest cantilevered building and setting a new benchmark for city hotels, it’s a marvel of design with a 230-metre link joining its dual towers. Integrated into the iconic One Za’abeel development, this vertical urban resort serves up beautifully designed accommodation, glamorous Michelin-inspired dining, transformative wellbeing and a magnetic social scene, all under one elegant roof.

Bringing together the world’s most sought-after chefs, masterful mixologists and multisensory experiences, it’s already become one of dynamic Dubai’s bucket-list destinations. Equally as impressive are its spectacular adults-only infinity pool (the UAE’s longest), suspended atop The Link, giving swimmers a perspective that’s both thrilling and serene; and The Garden on level four – a fabulous oasis with a lagoon-style pool just for families, a swim-up bar and space for laid-back lounging.

The rooms are exactly what you would expect from One&Only: light, airy and minimalistic, yet still managing to feel warm and inviting. Spacious for a city hotel, they’re a haven of tranquillity amidst the urban buzz and, if you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself enjoying every moment spent in your room, whether you’re taking in the panoramic views or simply recharging after a day of exploring.

Although I didn’t have the opportunity to dine at the hotel on this visit, I have heard glowing reviews. The breakfast buffet, described by another group as “spread across a space the size of a small playing field,” was obviously a standout highlight with them – the sort of feast that caters to every palate, from health-conscious options to indulgent treats. The service also comes highly recommended, with consistent praise for the attentive and friendly staff.

For nightlife enthusiasts, Sphere – suspended 100 metres above the ground in the overhanging section of The Link – is a must-mention. While I didn’t get to experience it in full swing myself, the seductive, sophisticated, and luxuriously exclusive atmosphere is sure to captivate, with entertainment that includes live music, exclusive fashion events and out-of-this-world shows you won’t want to miss; and the unique touch of a sofa that raises and lowers from the club certainly piqued my interest. It’s a creative and fun detail that underscores the modern luxury ethos and, even during the daytime, the space had an inviting buzz.

One of my favourite aspects though has to be the aforementioned views. No matter where you are in the hotel, the vistas are nothing short of spectacular, offering sweeping perspectives of Dubai’s iconic skyline. It’s a visual reminder of the city’s ambition and beauty, and you’re bound to find yourself reaching for your camera more than once.

More than a hotel, this is a truly multifaceted destination. The shared spaces, from bars to cafes, are alive with activity – a mix of guests and professionals meeting for business. And, while this might initially feel a bit unconventional for a leisure traveller, the sheer size of the complex ensures it never feels crowded or overwhelming. In fact, it merely adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

Ultimately, One&Only One Za’abeel is a property that’s hard to sum up in just a few words. It’s a place where luxury meets innovation and where urban energy meets serene comfort. While it is possible to make it the centerpiece of a trip to Dubai, for me, it’s more of a stopover option – or the perfect add-on to a stay at the beach. Its location, closer to the airport and the city’s main attractions, is ideal for those who want a taste of urban Dubai without battling the notorious traffic. Either way, Dubai’s latest oh-so-stylish playground promises a stay to remember.

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One&Only Le Saint Géran: The Epitome of Island Luxury

If Dubai dazzles with spectacle, Mauritius enchants with its pure unadulterated relaxation, and there’s no better place to indulge than One&Only Le Saint Géran. A beacon of luxury since its opening in 1975, you feel instantly lighter and wrapped in absolute luxury from the moment you arrive (ideally using their VIP airport service that skips immigration queues).

Every room embodies understated elegance: light, airy, and minimalist, with soothing palettes of white and mushroom grey and stunning views of the turquoise waters – so much so that even staying on the lagoon side feels like a slice of paradise. For families, the two-bedroom Villa One is a standout option, with its private infinity pool, direct beach access and close proximity to the resort’s main facilities.

Located on the idyllic Belle Mare Peninsula, about an hour’s drive from the airport (traffic permitting), the resort benefits from two contrasting waterfronts: the tranquil lagoon on one side and a pristine beach on the other. Both are breathtaking, with the lagoon side offering a quieter charm, though the beach side remains the more sought-after spot. For those staying in one of the rooms, there are ample sun loungers and shared cabanas by the pool, while every suite comes with a dedicated cabana on the beach, yours for the duration of your stay, so everyone can find their perfect spot to unwind.

Dining here too is nothing short of extraordinary. With five restaurants and a coffee shop, the resort caters to every palate. La Terrasse, the main buffet restaurant, wowed us with its vast and varied offerings, while Tapasake, a modern Pan-Asian venue perched over the lagoon, was a particular group favourite (and being immensely popular, I’d definitely recommend booking your table in advance). Though we didn’t get to dine at Prime (the soon-to-open steakhouse), the promise of yet another culinary gem adds to the resort’s allure; and private dining options are also available for any special occasions you’re celebrating during your stay.

It goes without saying that the service is impeccable too – with nothing too much trouble for this exceptional team. From the moment you arrive, a personal butler is assigned to you, available via WhatsApp to assist with everything from restaurant reservations to excursion planning, ensuring your stay is one you’ll treasure forever.

For adventure seekers, the resort offers a wealth of activities: free non-motorised watersports, an acclaimed dive centre, big game fishing and boat trips to the outskirts of the mangroves – unfortunately the weather slightly limited our mangrove adventure, but we still enjoyed a captivating glimpse into the island’s natural beauty. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the spacious gym, the AC Milan football academy (high season only), tennis courts, and nine-hole golf course. And for younger guests, the KidsOnly Club caters to children aged three years and up, with a crèche available for younger ones at an additional charge.

While the resort is undeniably a destination in itself, we were also lucky enough to head out on a day tour to explore the Black River Gorges National Park, the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark and one of the island’s rum factory, Although though distances on Mauritius can be significant, the stunning landscapes make it well worth exploring.

Ultimately, One&Only Le Saint Géran encapsulates the very best of island luxury. With its world-class dining, serene spa, impeccable service, and breathtaking location, it’s no wonder so many guests return year after year. Whether you’re pairing your stay here with an urban escape in Dubai or simply craving tropical tranquillity, this Mauritian gem is ready to welcome you.