Raffles The Palm Dubai
"Why book? As palatial as it gets, this resplendent hotel is like something out of a fairytale. From the arrival, which will see you surrounded by lavish cars to the majestic lobby that is simply awe-inspiring and glitzy. This is a stay guests won’t forget in a hurry. Set the scene Beautifully positioned to take in sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf from the West Crescent of the exclusive Palm Jumeirah neighborhood, this 389-room resort is the epitome of luxury. Favored by those who enjoy the finer things in life, the hotel is fabulously ultra-luxe beginning with its magnificent chandeliers and 24 karat gold and silver leaf artisans elevating the furnishings throughout. The backstory Initially owned by the Kempinski Hotels, the property was originally developed by the Emerald Palace Group, designed to resemble an 18th century European Palace. In late-2021 the hotel was taken over by Accor, the group that owns Raffles. The rooms As big as you’ll get in the Emirate, rooms are spacious and aesthetically designed with a regal aesthetic in mind. Decked out in platinum or gold tones, each room has a glittering chandelier, its own terrace and an elaborate stately marble bathroom with tub, shower, dual vanities and luxe toiletries. Food and drink The hotel has a handful of F&B offerings. Japanese restaurant Matagi is its standout eatery with the Alaskan King Crab, Yuzu Scallops with Seaweed & Finger Lime, and Magati Mule all worth a try. The decor is befitting of an Asian fusion establishment of this quality with its moody lighting and rich, contemporary vibe. Piatti By The Beach transports guests to the Amalfi region of Italy, and its Mediterranean fare is best enjoyed al fresco when the weather allows it. Sola Jazz shouldn’t be missed for a cracker combination of Jazz and cocktails, while Le Jardin is the all-day dining establishment. The spa Cinque Mondes Spa allows guests to continue to soak up the luxurious hotel vibe with an indulgent sensory session in a space that exudes wellness from the moment one steps foot inside. Opt for a quick 30-minute scrub or indulge in a two-hour Relaxing North African Hammam, the choice is yours. There are 23 treatment rooms and an indoor pool to lay by before or after a treatment. The neighborhood/area The West Crescent is an exclusive part of The Palm and in this neighborhood Raffles is joined by W The Palm Dubai. Guests are afforded views of the Dubai Marina skyline, Burj Al Arab, and the Burj Khalifa but can enjoy a five-acre setting that is private and palatial. While there really is no need to leave, Dubai Marina and Mall of the Emirates are within a 20-minute radius of the property. The service Each guest suite is afforded a 24-hour butler service, which is as efficient and dedicated as you would expect from a hotel of this caliber. From the moment a guest arrives at the property, they’re treated as a VIP and that injects a personalized element to the stay immediately. Hotel-wide staff are friendly and attentive, treating every guest as royalty. For families There’s an adventure playground and separate children’s pool for a family splashabout and The Voyagers Kids Club is all about fun. Babysitting services are available upon request. Accessibility The hotel is wheelchair friendly and there are several accessible rooms. Anything else to mention? The 1,640 foot long private beach, the best spot to take in a desert sunset with the fabulous Dubai distance in the distance." - Melinda Healy
