Where To Stay In Dubai
Glamorous Dubai glistens with towering glass-fronted skyscrapers, polished top-end cars and the sparkling water of luxury spas. But there’s more to Dubai than diamond-encrusted opulence. Its ancient beating heart is a historic old town with cobbled streets and independent art galleries, ancient Arabic wind towers built to channel cooling breezes into buildings and souks that tempt with colourful mountains of fragrant spices. Side by side with the older, more cultured aspect of Dubai sit the most modern and luxurious hotels and resorts, with expansive pools and forests of palm trees. There’s no shortage of soft, sandy beaches either. If you need help deciding where to stay in Dubai, you’re in the right place. Take a peek at our expertly curated list of places to stay.
Downtown Dubai
Known for: The world’s tallest building – The Burj Khalifa – and the vast Dubai Mall.
Best for: Shopaholics and those wanting an urban buzz.
Our top resort picks
- V Hotel Dubai, Curio by Hilton has lovely views over Dubai’s canal and is just 8 km from the lively Downtown Dubai area, with its nightly dancing fountain display.
- Jumeirah Emirates Towers is a five-star hotel in central Dubai with easy metro access, which is a great way to avoid traffic. It’s less than 4 km to Downtown Dubai.
Jumeirah Beach
Known for: Miles of golden sands and calm seas.
Best for: Travellers wondering where is best to stay in Dubai for top beaches and the nearby city vibe.
Our top resort picks:
- Hilton Dubai The Walk is in a premium location in the middle of Jumeirah Beach, with plenty of restaurants, bars and the beach all accessible on foot.
- The giant sweeping wave-like design of Jumeirah Beach Hotel is unmissable. This hotel defines sleek. Located right on the beach, guests also enjoy free access to the neighbouring Wild Wadi Waterpark.
Dubai Marina
Known for: Cloud-grazing skyscrapers with insane marina views.
Best for: If you’re looking for boat trip options, then Dubai Marina is one of the best places to visit in Dubai.
Our top resort picks:
- Grosvenor House is the obvious choice if staying in Dubai Marina. 45 storeys high, it’s a standout iconic marina landmark and the epitome of luxury.
- Nearby, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina stuns with elegance and an unbeatable beachfront location. Half-board guests can dine at 130 participating restaurants around town.
Bur Dubai
Known for: The oldest neighbourhood in Dubai.
Best for: Of all the places to stay in Dubai, Bur Dubai is a must for those seeking authenticity.
Our top resort picks:
- Intercontinental Dubai Festival City is just 6 km from the centre of Bur Dubai and has stunning vistas across Dubai Creek, where old-fashioned wooden dhows still sail today. Bur Dubai’s spice, silk and gold souks are just across the creek.
- Grand Hyatt Dubai is surrounded by its own 37-acre tropical landscaped gardens and has easy access in just a few minutes to Bur Dubai.
Deira
Known for: The gold souk, traditional dhows on the creek and a bustling atmosphere.
Best for: This is where to stay in Dubai if you want to experience diverse cultures.
Our top resort picks:
- JW Marriott Hotel Marina sits in the centre of bustling Deira, close to Dubai Gold and Diamond Park, as well as the souks and markets.
- Park Regis by Prince Dubai Islands enjoys a peaceful location on an island just off the coast of Deira, with its own private beach.
Al Fahidi
Known for: Well-preserved old buildings, wind towers and narrow winding streets.
Best for: This is an ancient place to stay in Dubai, suiting anyone interested in Dubai’s history.
Our top resort picks:
- Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai has everything you need for a comfortable stay, and it’s just a 15-minute drive to the historical Al Fahidi neighbourhood.
- For a holiday with a difference, stay on the Queen Elizabeth 2 ocean liner in Port Rashid, just a stone’s throw from the Al Fahidi historical neighbourhood. The ship doesn’t leave port, but you can learn its rich maritime history on a heritage tour.
Best resort ideas for families vacationing in Dubai
Families love being next to the beach. Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark offers a kids’ club, nursery and babysitting, too.
Romance is in the air: Which part of Dubai is best for couples?
The Palm Jumeirah is one of the most iconic locations in Dubai. The manmade island, genius in design, offers seafront locations for every hotel. The palm-shaped island is home to Dubai’s top luxury resorts and high-end restaurants. Couples can feel as though they’ve truly escaped the daily grind of the real world and are residing in a magical paradise. We love Atlantis The Royal, which is popular with honeymooners.
Let us take you to Dubai!
Not only is Dubai an exciting destination in its own right, but it is also a perfect stopover en route to Asia from the UK. Two or three days in Dubai on a multi-centre holiday satisfies even the strongest wanderlust.
Whatever style of holiday in Dubai you wish for, our destination experts can make your dream come true. Talk to us and we’ll put together the perfect Dubai holiday for you.
FAQs
What is the nicest part of Dubai?
For sandy beaches, stay in Jumeirah or Umm Suqeim; for world-class shopping, stay near Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai; or for history and culture, stay near Al Fahidi.
Where can you find the best beaches in Dubai?
Many seafront hotels come with their own private beach. If you’re staying somewhere without a private patch of sand, then head to one of the public beaches. For golden sands and calm turquoise water, check out Jumeirah Beach.
Which is the best luxury resort in Dubai?
Dubai does luxury exceptionally well, and there are many extravagant resorts to choose from. Fairmont The Palm will not disappoint. In a commanding position on the sought-after Palm Jumeirah, it boasts 11 gourmet restaurants, four pools and an award-winning spa.
