Al Habtoor Palace

Character and identity

Set within Al Habtoor City, a self-contained complex of hotels, residences and entertainment on the Dubai Water Canal, this is Beaux-Arts theatre at full volume: an illuminated facade over fountain pools, sweeping marble staircases, columns and crystal chandeliers in the lobby. Rooms and suites lean French and Old World, with damask wallpapers, dark wood and marble bathrooms with free-standing tubs. Eight restaurants span a New York-style steakhouse (World Cut), a courtyard lounge and a champagne lounge. The Silk Spa runs six treatment rooms, two rooftop pools come with pool butlers, and butler service extends to every guest.

Who's it for

Bottom line

The defining question is whether you want Old World European pomp transplanted into Dubai; if yes, few properties commit to the look more wholeheartedly. Book a Grand Deluxe Room with Dubai Water Canal views, factor in the 30-minute transfer if beach days matter, and time a Thursday or Friday stay to catch the live Motown or jazz sets at World Cut.