Raffles Dubai

"How did it strike you on arrival?An architectural landmark, Raffles Dubai channels an Egyptian pyramid both inside and out—the lobby is filled with pillars engraved with hieroglyphs. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Signature Rooms are among the largest in Dubai at nearly 800 square-feet and have private terraces overlooking the city. Rooms have marble and pale gold accents, patterned rugs, and pops of burgundy. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Room lighting includes a “mood” setting that showcases detailed Arabic-inspired fixtures. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms have corner soaking tubs with ornate pendant lamps and candles. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wifi is free and fast. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?Food and beverage staff throughout the hotel are genuine and offer impeccable service. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?The hotel is close to Wafi City Mall and the American Hospital Dubai but further from the coastline than other accommodations. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Rooms are getting close to needing an upgrade (a renovation is in the works), but faultless service sets Raffles Dubai apart from its competitors." - Laura Ratliff