Best Luxury Hotels In The UAE

The tourism capital of the Gulf nations, the UAE offers year-round sunshine and glamorous resorts. Its two main cities: Abu Dhabi and Dubai are glitzy playgrounds, edged by a perfect coastline with azure blue seas. Dubai is home to the tallest tower on the planet, Burj Khalifa, a major draw for visitors and some of the world’s most opulent hotels. But it’s not only the more populated areas that attract visitors. Trips out to experience the country’s fascinating Bedouin desert culture offer an opportunity to view and engage with a culture completely disparate from the Western world.  Here are our top places to stay in the United Arab Emirates.



Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities376 Rooms & Suites, Multiple Restaurants & Bars, Iridium Spa, Infinity Pool, Fitness Centre, Tennis Courts, Private Beach, Butler Service, Kids' Clubs.

True to its name, this island resort is a beautiful blend of city living and waterside relaxation. The seductive Arabian Gulf outside the doors of the hotel offers an escape from the everyday and the golf club gives you a reason to enjoy the great outdoors. Located Saadiyat Cultural District, the hotel is minutes from a wildlife refuge and downtown Abu Dhabi. There are three decadent pools to enjoy in addition to the sand and surf. Dining is eclectic, a selection of international cuisines. For a true respite, the St. Regis will always deliver.

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The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi

Rosewood Abu Dhabi

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Rooms154 Rooms & 35 Suites
AmenitiesMultiple Restaurants & Bars, Sense Spa, Fitness Centre, Rooftop Pool, Pet-Friendly, Butler Service, Executive Manor Club, Tennis, Padel, Football Academy, Basketball.

Extravagance is the name of the game at the Rosewood with a hotel modelled after the beauty of the Arabian Sea and that evokes a feeling of true relaxation in the middle of the city. Not only does the hotel offer a series of luxurious rooms, but the exclusive suites are a true wonder to behold. The hotel boasts a golf and beach club as well as a fitness centre, pool, and spa. Dining options are varied and include nine bars and restaurants to choose from. No matter what you’re in the mood to eat or drink, there’s something here for everyone.

BOOK YOUR STAY
Rosewood Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities376 Rooms & Suites, Multiple Restaurants & Bars, Iridium Spa, Infinity Pool, Fitness Centre, Tennis Courts, Private Beach, Butler Service, Kids' Clubs.

True to its name, this island resort is a beautiful blend of city living and waterside relaxation. The seductive Arabian Gulf outside the doors of the hotel offers an escape from the everyday and the golf club gives you a reason to enjoy the great outdoors. Located Saadiyat Cultural District, the hotel is minutes from a wildlife refuge and downtown Abu Dhabi. There are three decadent pools to enjoy in addition to the sand and surf. Dining is eclectic, a selection of international cuisines. For a true respite, the St. Regis will always deliver.

BOOK YOUR STAY
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi

Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities200 Rooms & 38 Suites, 6 Restaurants & Lounges, A Rooftop Pool, The Pearl Spa, A Fitness Centre, Butler Service, Pet-Friendly, Desert Safari.

The Four Seasons name is one that you know will always deliver luxury and opulence and this hotel is no exception. Location within a collection of 200 islands, the hotel calls to business travellers, but is also a destination for vacationers and shoppers. The Dahlia Spa offers an extensive selection of decadent treatments including a variety of massage options. There’s also a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city to be had. Each room is thoughtfully decorated and ready to welcome you right in for a relaxing place to unwind and enjoy some downtime.

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Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities504 Rooms & Suites, 4 Plunge Pool Villas, 11 Rabdan Villas. Eight Restaurants & Bars, Spa, Fitness Centre, Outdoor Pool, Kids' Club, Butler Service, Lush Gardens.

Luxury is always at its best at the Ritz-Carlton and the Abu Dhabi location is no exception. Beautiful lush greenery welcomes you in and lovely visions of the Al Maqta Creek and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque will delight your love of nature and architecture. Inside you’ll find plush bedding and delightfully decorated rooms that are a traveller’s dream, whether you’re there for business or pleasure. The hotel boasts an indoor waterpark, an exclusive spa, and a wonderful mixture of cuisines at the hotel’s eight restaurants that serve up everything from steak to noodles and everything in between.

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The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

Bab AlQasr Hotel

(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities412 Rooms, Suites & Residences, Multiple Restaurants & Bars, Spa, Fitness Centre, Outdoor Pool, Private Beach, Butler Service, Kids' Club, Pet-Friendly.

True opulence awaits you inside the Bab Al Qasr hotel with its lobby filled with palms and plush seating in shades of cream and red. Beautiful views abound outside the window of each luxurious room designed for the ultimate in rest and relaxation. The hotel features an exclusive collection of restaurants and a distinct Moroccan influence in both dining and decor. Relax and rejuvenate in the hotel’s spa or lounge poolside and soak up the sun. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre and a hair salon, and can organise tours and excursions.

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Bab AlQasr Hotel

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities394 Rooms & Suites, 12 Restaurants & Bars, Michelin-Starred Restaurant Talea And Hakkasan, World-class Spa, Fitness Centre, Two Swimming Pools, Pet-Friendly, Butler Service, Kids' Club, Exclusive Ep Club,Adventure Experiences.

A true palace, this hotel will never let you down with its lavish design and luxurious hospitality. Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the hotel is near the pristine waters of the sea and also boasts a decadent pool and spa for your rest and relaxation. The rooms and suites are beautifully furnished and have state of the art sound systems, private balconies, and lovely views of the city. Delectable food can be found at any of the hotel’s bars or restaurants, whether you desire a full meal or just a couple of cocktails.

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Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Dubai, Dubai Emirate

The Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities319 Rooms & Suites, Multiple Restaurants & Bars, Waldorf Astoria Spa, Gym, Two Outdoor Pools, Butler Service, Kids' Club, Private Beach

The Waldorf Astoria Dubai hotel is an astonishing destination and is located on the Palm Jumeirah. It offers luxurious rooms, a remarkable private beach, and distinctive signature restaurants. The hotel offers a mix of dining experiences in its amazing 6 restaurants. Serving Arabian dishes as well as Southeast Asian tastes, the Waldorf Astoria makes sure you’re completely satisfied. Make sure you visit the Serafina Bar where you can enjoy a cocktail and enjoy live entertainment in the evenings.

BOOK YOUR STAY
The Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

ME Dubai by Meliá

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities93 Rooms & Suites, Multiple Restaurants & Bars, Luxury Spa, Fitness Centre, Rooftop Pool, Butler Service.

Located in striking Opus building in the cultural heart of Dubai, the ME Dubai is a cosmopolitan hotel designed to be more than just a hotel, connecting guests with a combination of art, cuisine, fashion and music. Designed by Zaha Hadid, ME Dubai offers architecture and design lovers something to marvel at with a spectacle of a façade and intricate masterpieces that adorn the interiors. The minimalistic style flows through the rooms and suites – many of which boast Instagrammable views across the city. From a contemporary expression of Japanese Robatayaki cuisine in Roka to gin and tonics and gastro bites in Botanica or a flavour of South America in Deseo to a world-class selection of delicacies in The Atrium by Zaha Hadid there is something for every international gourmand. The span and wellness centre is a haven for relaxation, whilst energetic guests can make use of the rooftop pool or ultra-modern Technogym Biocircuit gym.

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ME Dubai by Meliá

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Raffles The Palm, Dubai

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities389 Rooms, Suites, & Villas, Seven Restaurants, Cinq Mondes Spa, Gym, Private Yoga Studio, Indoor Pool, Butler Service, Kids' Club.

Palm Jumeirah Island is the address for this plush and lavish 5-star Raffles The Palm. Designed to offer guests profound wellbeing and palatial pleasure. The ornate style of the spacious rooms and suites resonates throughout the rest of the hotel. Hotel guests can enjoy a choice of three upmarket restaurants, each excelling in its speciality cuisine; from contemporary Japanese, alfresco dining through to traditional Afternoon Tea – there is something top suite all tastes and occasions.  The outdoor or indoor pools are a great place to reenergise whilst the private beach area is perfect for those who love the sun. Guests can also make use of the extensive spa facilities, yoga studio and fully equipped gym. Raffles the Palm is perfect for those who enjoy style and variety.

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Raffles The Palm, Dubai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The St. Regis Downtown

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities298 Rooms & Suites, Multiple Restaurants, St. Regis Spa, Infinity Pool, Fitness Centre, Butler Service, Afternoon Tea Rituals, Kids' Club.

Located along the Dubai water canal and just a short walk from the world’s largest shopping mall is the St. Regis Downtown. As to be expected in Dubai the spacious rooms and suites are lavishly appointed and overlook local landmarks – with floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests can expect the highest standards of guest care with the signature St. Regis Butler Service providing round-the-clock anticipatory service. There is an excellent choice of bars and restaurants to suit a range of tastes and guests can take sanctuary from the bustling vibe of Dubai in the hotel’s infinity swimming pool or with a treatment at the spa. Stay here and discover Downtown luxury at its best.

BOOK YOUR STAY
The St. Regis Downtown

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

One & Only the Palm

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities94 Rooms, Suites, & Private Beachfront Villas, Three Restaurants, Michelin-Starred Restaurant Stay By Yannick Alléno, Guerlain Spa, Fitness Centre, Large Outdoor Pool, Butler Service, Kids' Club, Private Beach Access, Desert Activities

One & Only The Palm Resort is a jewel in Dubai. Located on the Palm Island, it’s the reflection of stylish and prestigious design. You can enjoy astonishing panoramic views from your suite or take a walk on the lush private beach on the Palm Jumeirah. The One & Only has elegant and spacious rooms, suites as well as villas which are perfect if you’re travelling with your friends or family. The Beach Villas offer customised service and direct access to the amazing private beach. If you’re a fan of healthy dining, make sure you book your table at the over-water Marina Restaurant, Bar & Lounge. Guests can also enjoy dishes offered by the One & Only Royal Mirage in its 7 restaurants. You’ll have to take a water taxi to get there, though.

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One & Only the Palm

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities202 Duplex Suites, 10 Restaurants And Bars, Michelin-Starred Restaurant Al Muntaha, Talise Spa, Rooftop Pool, Private Cabanas ,talise Fitness Centre, Butler Service, Kids' Club.

If you want to feel like royalty, make sure you stay at the Burj Al Arab Hotel. Located on its own island, the Burj Al Arab features ultra-modern and splendid suite. All of the Burj Al Arab suites have floor-to-ceiling windows and are equipped with ultimate technology. The hotel’s 9 restaurants and great staff will make sure you enjoy excellent dining experiences. If you’re a thrill-seeker, go ahead and drink a cocktail or have your coffee at the Sky View Bar which is suspended 200 metres above sea level.

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Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

Bur Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Palazzo Versace Dubai

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities215 Rooms & Suites, 169 Residences, Nine Restaurants And Bars, Spa, Fitness Centre, 3 Outdoor Mosaic-tiled Pools, Butler Service.

The Palazzo Versace is located in the centre of the Culture Village and is an 8-minute walk from Downtown Dubai. The hotel’s interior design is custom-made by the House of Versace. The 215 hotel rooms and suites, as well as the 169 residences, have tailor-made Italian furnishing. The hotel offers excellent fine dining in its 8 restaurants with al-fresco terraces and 3 spectacular pools featuring mosaic tiles. For a bit of fun, The Palazzo Versace offers complimentary access to Nikki Beach Resort & Spa’s pools and beach.

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Palazzo Versace Dubai

Bur Dubai, Dubai

Raffles Dubai

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities252 Rooms & Suites, Six Restaurants, Raffles Spa, Rooftop Pool, Private Cabanas, Fitness Centre, Kids' Club, Butler Service.

Inspired by the pyramids of Egypt, the Raffles Dubai hotel is designed to mix Egyptian culture with Dubai’s contemporary style. All of the hotel’s rooms have customised and handmade ornaments and luxurious fabrics. You’ll be pampered in the extravagant saunas and steam rooms and can enjoy outdoor relaxation by the luxurious swimming pool. The hotel’s 7 restaurants include Japanese cuisine as well as traditional Arabian dishes. If you’re looking to do a little bit of shopping, you can go to Wafi Mall which is right next to the hotel.

Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Armani Hotel Dubai

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities160 Rooms & Suites, Seven Restaurants, Luxury Spa, Direct Access To The Dubai Mall.

This Armani Hotel occupies 11 floors of the Burj Khalifa skyscraper, but it has a separate private entrance. All rooms have Japanese tatami furnishing and lush fabrics. A prestigious dining experience is offered by each of the hotel’s 7 restaurants. For a night to remember make sure you go to the Armani Privé club. If you want to relax, you can enjoy the luxurious Armani Spa to enjoy special treatments with exclusive products.

BOOK YOUR STAY
Armani Hotel Dubai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Atlantis the Palm

Hotel
(5 stars)
At a glance
Amenities1,500 Rooms & Suites, Multiple Restaurants & Bars, Michelin-Starred Dining With Celebrity Chefs, The World’s Largest Waterpark Aquaventure, A Shuiqi Spa, Fitness Centre, Private Beach, Family-friendly Facilities​

The Atlantis The Palm offers extraordinary views of the Arabian Gulf and has an amazing underwater aquarium. The Atlantis’s rooms have an oceanic-inspired décor and feature Arabian styles. Culinary experiences are diverse at the Atlantis. The restaurants serve from traditional Chinese dining at the Yuan restaurant to Japanese cuisine at the Nobu or British dishes at Gordon Ramsay’s. Guests are offered complimentary access to Aquaventure which is the most famous water park in the Middle East where you can enjoy thrilling slides at the Tower of Neptune or the Tower of Poseidon.

BOOK YOUR STAY
Atlantis the Palm

Sharjah, Ajman, United Arab Emirates

The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah – A Ghm Hotel

Hotel
(5 stars)

This hotel underwent a complete rebranding in March 2020 and is housed in a group of heritage homes. These buildings have been repurposed from their former roles as private residences, but have been well preserved to retain their character. With its own museum, library cigar lounge and jewellery boutique The Chedi Al Bait is quite unusual. 53 elegant bedrooms are decorated in a contemporary Arabic meets Asian design. There are two restaurants, one offering international fare, with the other specialising in gourmet food served family-style. Both have indoor and outdoor seating. Sip on Turkish coffee at the cafe and enjoy sweet treats at Al Bareed. The hotel also has a spa, providing holistic Middle Eastern treatments.

BOOK YOUR STAY
The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah – A Ghm Hotel

Sharjah, Ajman

Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa

Hotel
(5 stars)

The city’s newest beach resort comes under the international Sheraton banner, making it popular with Western visitors seeking an international vibe with five-star facilities. It’s also a family-friendly choice, offering babysitting services, a kids’ club, a games room and a dedicated pool for guests with children. The Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa also has 349 bedrooms, a private beach area, another outdoor pool, a gym, a beach grill, a seafood market, a buffet restaurant, a cafe and a cigar lounge. While it is a cosmopolitan hotel, there’s plenty of Arabian influence, not least in the decorative accents. Some rooms have balconies and sea views, while the top room — the Presidential Suite, is a palatial affair with three bedrooms and a private pool.

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Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa

Sharjah, Ajman

Pullman Sharjah

Hotel
(5 stars)

This uber-trendy hotel places you at the heart of the cultural action in the Al Taawun area of town. The rooms here have an urban-chic style, with plenty of mod cons, such as wireless Bose music players, huge TVs, dining areas (even in the standard category of rooms) and Roger & Gallet bath products. Coffee is served in the lobby bar, while the Al Khan restaurant has live cooking stations and an adventurous menu served day and night, as well as frequent all-you-can-eat seafood banquets. Fresh juices and snacks can be enjoyed by the infinity pool by day and guests have access to the spa and fitness centre.

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Pullman Sharjah

Kalbā, United Arab Emirates

Kingfisher Retreat Sharjah

Hotel
(5 stars)

Offering something completely different, this resort is in fact set on an island, off the city’s coast. Here, wildlife including turtles, birds and gazelles roam in the Eden-like eco-setting. Guests arrive via a private launch and are accommodated across 20 deluxe tents each with its own private ocean-side pool. Earthy hues encourage the sense of returning to nature, without compromising on comfort. Healthy, organic cuisine is served indoors and out at Al Qurm, or in-room bespoke dining alternatives can be arranged. The Kingfisher Retreat also has a small spa and direct beach access.  access.

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Kingfisher Retreat Sharjah

* All the properties and products we feature are independently selected by our editors and contributors. If you buy something we may earn a commission.

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