Jumeirah Burj Al Arab

Character and identity

Rising on its own purpose-built island off Jumeirah Beach, this sail-shaped tower is Dubai's most photographed building and the flagship of the Jumeirah group. The 202 suites are all duplexes, entered via a sweeping staircase and finished in unapologetic gold, baroque fabrics, marble bars and Hermès amenities. Nine restaurants include the Michelin-starred Al Muntaha, the aquarium-set L'Olivo at Al Mahara and the bucket-list Skyview Lounge afternoon tea. Talise Spa runs across two floors with a mosaic-pillared indoor pool, and a 107,000-square-foot terrace holds private beach, infinity pools and 32 cabanas. Service is butler-led, every floor staffed, summoned by gold iPad.

Who's it for

Bottom line

The draw here is theatre: an address, a silhouette and a level of gold-plated ceremony that no other Dubai hotel attempts. Book it when the spectacle is the point, ideally for a milestone trip, and choose a city-facing suite for the Jumeirah Beach panorama. Note that the property is temporarily closed for renovations, so confirm reopening dates before planning.