Photo of Dubai

About Dubai

Dubai is home to some of the world's most opulent hotels, but not all the best places to stay in Dubai are out of the price range of regular folk. It may be full of glitz and bling, but scratch beneath the surface (quite hard!) and you can find authentic little properties that are ideally located for exploring the historic sites, and give you a sense of what the place was like before the mega-resorts moved in.

Some of our Dubai Collections:

Dubai is a glamorous, sunny destination. Perfect if you're craving the beach in October and you don't want to fly long haul from Europe. Even for families. The food is varied and facilities are modern and air conditioned. From the boutique shopping, to the polo and the races, to the ancient souqs, and the man-made coastline. But while it can be hectic, and expensive, it doesn't have to be. Dubai is broken up into several distinct districts (check out our neighbourhood guide for more information), and you haven’t really visited the city unless you’ve explored two or three of them, and seen both the incredible modern miracles built in the desert, the city’s ancient cultural treasures and way of life, and the beach.

Beyond the glitz of the city is the peace of the desert.

Don't forget that this emirate is an ever-popular year round destination, so if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Dubai, you'll need to get organised and book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Dubai

For a 'Once in a Lifetime' Hotel

  • Dubai doesn't do things by halves, and there aren't many places this is more obvious than at Atlantis the Palm. On the ocean edge of the man-made Palm Jumeirah, this deep sea themed hotel is… Wow. It's not just a resort - there's a huge water park, an aquarium, a huge spa and shopping. There's a private beach, tennis courts, you can learn to scuba dive, or swim with dolphins. And there's a crazy array of restaurant options.
  • If you want all the glitz and glamour Dubai can muster you need The Address Downtown Dubai, a luxurious skyscraper with seven swimming pools, an immaculate spa, award winning restaurants, private everything and wonderful views of the Burj Khalifa.
  • Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah is a proper sultanate palace with all the flash. Rooms and suites are opulently filled with antique loveliness, there's a vast spa, sea views and private this, that and the other. This is a grand affair, with a pool complex so big that you can use their Venetian style gondolas to get around it. And a choice of 44 restaurants and bars.

For a city break

  • The Armani Hotel is by 'that' Armani, so offers a flavour of Milano in the Burj Khalifa. Sumptuous, but muted, compared to many of the hotels around it, the Armani has clean modern lines and neutral shades, so it's popular with business travellers.
  • The Palace Downtown Dubai is a classic hotel which bridges the gap between the modern glass giants and a sultanate palace. It's one of the best places to stay in Dubai if you're looking for comfort and elegance - there's a relaxed, almost colonial air, and not too much flash.
  • Al Manzil is a very comfortable, 197 room hotel just five minutes walk from Burj Khalifa. The chic, contemporary rooms and suites are designed with business travellers in mind, and there’s a temperature controlled pool, a range of restaurants, and spa facilities.

For a traditional stay

  • If you're looking for a smaller hotel, one of the best places to stay in Dubai is the Orient Guest House, which has 12 rooms in the Bastakiya Heritage Area near Dubai Creek. Traditional and romantic, this is a quiet spot within walking distance from many of Dubai's main attractions.
  • The Ahmedia Heritage Guest House is a small, romantic, 15 room hotel with antique four-poster beds, and gorgeous fabrics, plus a lovely courtyard, and its own art gallery. The decor is traditional and you're right near the souks.

For a Desert Escape

  • Desert Palm is a quite secret, 38 room desert hideaway, with facilities which could cater for more than double the number of guests. The city is your backdrop, but your immediate view is of the stunning green of the polo fields. For total privacy book your own villa, complete with your own pool.

For luxury

  • The Meydan Hotel is a 284 room hotel overlooking Dubai’s racecourse. it’s big, with big rooms and suites, all of them lavishly kitted out with private balconies and huge windows. There’s a huge range of restaurants and bars onsite, and an excellent range of facilities, including a tennis academy and a golf course, plus an infinity pool over the racecourse, and a separate children’s pool.

For Families

  • The Jumeirah Beach Hotel is one of those beautiful glass and steel structures rising out of the desert which you see in all the photos of Dubai. It might not look family friendly, but it has its own beach, a number of pools, an excellent spa, a collection of restaurants, kids clubs, you're right by the marina, AND you have free access to the Wild Wadi Water Park.
  • The Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach is a huge, family-friendly resort hotel with a private beach and a fantastic array of facilities, including tennis courts, a golf course, a range of watersports, and a superb spa. The rooms are what other hotels would call suites, and the suites are more like apartments, and all up there are 237 to choose from, arranged in a five storey Moorish horseshoe with lots of marble and palm trees. There are three restaurants and a trio of bars, and you’re only 15 minutes from the centre of Dubai.

For great value

  • The XVA Hotel is a fabulous alternative to Dubai's grandiose palatial hotels - an arty, Arabian style property decorated with art, antiques and understated furnishings. You'll find it in the oldest part of Dubai Creek, near the Dubai Museum.

Prefer an apartment?

  • If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel information

  • Dubai International Airport is only three and a half kilometres from the city centre, which takes between five and twenty five minutes by taxi, depending on the traffic, or you can catch the driverless Metro, which comes every ten minutes and takes about twenty to get into the city.
  • If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars have to offer.
  • Dubai is a city destination with year round appeal, but unlike many other cities, this is not somewhere to come in the summer unless you really like the heat. Temperatures throughout summer will be in the low to mid-30s, with the possibility of going beyond 40°C. Many places you go will have air-conditioning, and hotels have pools, but this heat is certainly not for everyone. Winter, between December and February, sees temperatures in the mid-teens to mid-20s, and some rain, but this is a desert, so there’s still not really a lot of rain. Spring and autumn offer a sliding scale between the hottest and coolest parts of the year, so it’s actually possibly to pick out your ideal temperature and plan to visit Dubai when those sorts temperatures can be expected.

Still not sure which to book?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Dubai

Best Hotels in Dubai

  • Hatta Fort Hotel Dubai 52 rooms from CA$145

    Families  -  Great for families, as the fresh air and lush greenery makes for a serene nature sanctuary for kids
    Active Holiday  -  Many activities offered at the hotel and also many mountain focused activities can be arranged
    Foodies  -  Feast in one (or both) of the two world-class restaurants
    Eco break  -  The area is being touted as an eco-tourism destination
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Luxury hotel set against the dramatic backdrop of the Hajar Mountains. Great for families and couples alike, with a kids' as well as adults-only pool. World class cuisine served at the two restaurants and a bar and an indulgent spa to unwind after a busy day exploring the mountains by bike or foot. See More

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  • XVA Hotel Dubai (Al Fahidi) 12 rooms from CA$219

    Value chic
    Sights nearby  -  Situated in the oldest part of Dubai Creek
    Restaurant  -  Highly recommended on site cafe
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    RestaurantGarden

    A fabulous alternative to the grandiose palaces of Dubai. An arty Arabian hotel filled with antiques, artwork, and understated furnishings. Chic rooms surround a charming inner courtyard and cafe. A wonderful choice for a more authentic taste of Dubai. See More

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  • Bab al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Dubai 113 rooms from CA$226

    Romantic Break
    Luxury
    Spa breaks
    Restaurant  -  Four restaurants serving traditional arabic and international cuisine
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGarden
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller, Kiwi Collection

    A romantic desert resort and spa just outside Dubai at a slightly more affordable price than most. Luxury canopied suites with private balconies, top of the range spa and therapies, excellent restaurant, and lots of desert activities. Family friendly too. See More

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  • Movenpick Jumeirah Beach Dubai (Jumeirah) 294 rooms from CA$256

    Restaurant  -  Three different dining options from buffet to brasserie to sports bistro and lounge
    Local markets  -  Find a bargain in one of the souks
    Swimming Pool  -  Large outdoor pool
    Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.
    SpaRestaurantSwimming Pool

    High rise property a stone's throw from Jumeirah Beach. Contemporary rooms and suites offer a good range of accommodation for business or leisure. Large pool with great city views and wide range of dining options. Excellent service & welcoming staff. A quality establishment that won't break the bank See More

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  • Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah Dubai (Jumeirah) 292 rooms from CA$270

    Restaurant  -  44 restaurants and bars.
    Luxury
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Spa breaks
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, CN Traveller

    A sultanate palace with unrivalled facilities, views, and opulence. Rooms and suites filled with beautiful furniture, private balconies, and sea views. Restaurants, bars, a mammoth spa, and anything one might desire. Luxury and convenience on a grand scale. See More

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  • Orient Guest House Dubai (Al Fahidi) 12 rooms from CA$270

    Sights nearby  -  Located in the Bastakiya heritage area. Walking distance from the Dubai Museum, Dubai creek & Meena Bazaar
    Spa  -  Access to a nearby spa with swimming pool
    Restaurant  -  Courtyard cafe open all day
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurant

    A fantastic alternative to the expensive hotels. A stylish little guesthouse with a charming courtyard, lovely authentic bedrooms, and access to a nearby spa. Ideal for those looking for something a little less ostentatious. See More

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  • Manzil Downtown Dubai (Downtown) 197 rooms from CA$271

    Business meetings
    Sights nearby  -  5 minutes walk from Burj Khalifa
    Swimming Pool  -  Temperature controlled pool
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming Pool

    A comfortable hotel designed mainly for business travellers. Chic contemporary rooms and suites with views of the Burj Khalifa, excellent restaurants, pool and spa facilities. See More

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  • The Address Montgomerie Dubai (Jumeirah) 21 rooms from CA$273

    Golf  -  The hotel has it's own golf course - designed by Colin Montgomerie
    Active Holiday  -  The championship golf course attracts avid golfers.
    Luxury
    Swimming Pool  -  With great views over the 18th green!
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A classic hotel with a championship golf course surrounded by gardens and lakes. Palatial rooms and suites are elegant in style with all the mod cons and balconies. Excellent restaurants, pools, and a spa. Ideal for golfers. See More

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  • Desert Palm Dubai 38 rooms from CA$287

    Restaurant  -  Several dining options on site.
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor Pool
    Spa
    Tennis
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels

    Dubai’s version of a secret desert hideaway, the Arabian sister of the Huvafen Fushi. With top notch spa, terrace overlooking the polo fields and more facilities than you can imagine. See More

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  • Jumeirah Beach Hotel Dubai (Jumeirah) 617 rooms from CA$354

    Child friendly  -  Kids club on site including one for teenagers. Plus unlimited access to Wild Wadi Waterpark.
    Families
    Swimming Pool  -  Five different pool including one children's pool.
    Restaurant  -  Over fifteen restaurants, cafes and bars on site.
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViews
    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

    Family friendly beachside hotel with great views of the mighty Burj and unlimited access to the Wild Wadi Waterpark. Ideal for those who want a bit of city action too with the downtown area and shopping close by. See More

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  • Armani Hotel, Dubai Dubai (Downtown) 160 rooms from CA$383

    City Style
    Foodies
    Luxury
    Sights nearby  -  The hotel is situated in the Burj Khalifa!
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViews
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    An Armani hotel that cuts a Milanese dash in the Burj Khalifa. Sumptuous, but muted, luxury with stunning views, excellent restaurants, many pools, and an immaculate spa. A popular choice for tourists and business travellers as much as the city's dwellers. See More

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  • The Palace Downtown Dubai Dubai (Downtown) 242 rooms from CA$422

    Designer Shopping  -  5-minute walk from the Dubai Mall and the Souk Al Bahar
    Luxury
    City Style
    Romantic Break
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A classic hotel that bridges the gap between Dubai modernism and old age sultanate. Sophisticated rooms and suites in earthy tones with elegant furnishings. Enormous pool, excellent restaurants, and fabulous spa. See More

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  • The Meydan Hotel Dubai (Nad Al Sheba) 284 rooms from CA$422

    Restaurant  -  Several restaurants to choose from including Italian, Asian and Steakhouse serving Wagyu beef.
    Spa  -  Wide range of relaxing treatments
    Swimming Pool  -  Rooftop infinity pool
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming Pool

    Luxury hotel overlooking Dubai's racecourse, just a short drive from the business district. Large rooms and suites, most with balconies, are lavishly kitted out. Wide range of restaurants and bars to choose from and so many activities on site, you'll never need to leave. See More

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  • Ahmedia Heritage Guest House Dubai (Deira) 15 rooms from CA$362

    City Style
    Four poster beds  -  Beautiful rooms with antique four poster beds.
    Sights nearby  -  Grand Mosque, Dubai Heritage VIllage.
    Local markets  -  Spice Souk, Gold Souk.
    Air conditioning

    A lovely boutique hotel in the Al Ras quarter of Dubai. Chic rooms with gorgeous fabrics and antique four poster beds. Lovely breakfast courtyard and an art gallery. A romantic spot with authentic Arabic decoration. See More

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  • The Address Downtown Dubai Dubai (Downtown) 196 rooms from CA$432

    Views  -  Great views over Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain and the Old Town
    Spa breaks  -  Immaculate spa and seven pools.
    Foodies  -  Award-winning restaurants.
    City Style
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet

    Luxury in a skyscraper like no other. Seven swimming pools, an immaculate spa, award-winning restaurants, suites with private terraces, spas and pools, and views of the Burj Khalifa. Dubai the Dubai way! See More

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  • Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Dubai (Jumeirah) 405 rooms from CA$502

    Beach Life
    City Style
    5* Luxury  -  Very high service standards.
    Romantic Break
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Fabulous Five Star luxury on the palm. Palatial rooms and suites, contemporary in style, have private balconies and all the mod cons. Excellent restaurants, tennis courts, private beach, spa, and fantastic sea views. See More

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  • Atlantis The Palm Dubai (Palm Jumeirah) 999 rooms from CA$548

    Other Activities  -  Waterpark, Aquarium and swimming with the hotel dolphin.
    Child friendly  -  Dedicated kids clubs for all ages.
    On the beach  -  Private 800m beach
    Beach Life
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParking
    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

    Flamboyant, deep sea themed hotel where nothing is done by halves. Perfect for families, with activities galore and dedicated clubs catering from 3-18 year olds. See More

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  • One & Only the Palm Dubai (Palm Jumeirah) 69 rooms from CA$651

    Foodies  -  3 Michelin Star chef.
    Luxury
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Spa breaks
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, CN Traveller

    A stunning resort on the Palm with unbeatable facilities and opulently contemporary rooms and suites. Tennis courts, private beach, impeccable spa, Michelin star restaurants, and unbeatable views. Family friendly, romantic, and certainly luxurious. See More

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  • Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach Dubai (Jumeirah) 237 rooms from CA$658

    Opulent  -  Understated, but no less opulent
    Beach Life  -  Private day villas/cabanas
    Total relaxation
    Restaurant  -  11 restaurants onsite - seafood, Middle Eastern, Peruvian, steak house, to fine-dining French & Mediterranean
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParking

    Luxurious, family-friendly resort hotel with private beach, watersports, tennis, golf and a superb spa. Rooms are super-sized, contemporary classic in style and all have balconies with city skyline or sea views. With faultless service, the Four Seasons is perfect for family fun or chilling out. See More

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  • Al Maha Resort Dubai (Sharjah) 42 rooms from CA$793

    Tented Camp  -  Luxury tented suites.
    5* Luxury  -  Very high service standards.
    Spa breaks
    Honeymoons
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    A luxury Five Star tented camp in the desert. Utterly romantic canopied suites with teak furnishings, killim rugs, and private pools. Fabulous local cuisine, excellent spa, and desert activities including camel racing. An Arabian Nights adventure for romantics. See More

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