Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai
Mandarin Oriental has truly outdone itself with its first foray into the UAE. The beachfront resort offers sleek and spacious rooms, uninterrupted sea and skyline views, five stunning pools, a private beach and a Michelin-star restaurant from Portuguese culinary superstar, José Alvarez.
Even for those acquainted with the excesses of Dubai, it’s hard not to be impressed by the breathtaking lobby with its avenue of bronze trees, their branches tipped with 900 white lights. Equally impressive is the location itself, on a gorgeous stretch of white-sand beach, with the Arabian Gulf in front and the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, towering behind.
Rooms make the most of the views, mixing contemporary interiors with marble bathrooms, luxurious Natura Blissé toiletries and – in almost all cases – a private balcony or terrace. The Mandarin Sea Front Suite is especially arresting, with its wraparound terrace and sweeping Gulf views.
The Michelin star of Tasca by José Alvarez is hard to resist, but leave time too to visit Japanese restaurant Netsu by Ross Shonhan, take afternoon tea in Noor Lounge, and grab a bite poolside from the Sun Vibe Bar while relaxing for the day in a private cabana.
The spa menu is brimming with Asian and Arabic-inspired treatments and there are separate areas for men and women with wigwam-like pods to relax in after treatments. Service is impeccable and children are well catered for through the Little Nomads kids’ club.
