Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre

Character and identity

A Manhattan-inspired tower hotel occupying floors 18 to 55 of the Burj Daman skyscraper, in the thick of Dubai's financial district yet set just across from the main DIFC drag. The 275 rooms and the sky lobby channel 1960s Mad Men glamour: brass and bronze accents, walnut and mahogany furniture, rose gold lamps, sculptural light installations, mirrored ceilings over patterned marble. Bull & Bear revives the New York steakhouse legacy with serious cocktails, while St. Trop, the French Riviera-styled rooftop, handles sundowners with shisha and live music. The spa runs four specialised treatment suites including Vichy and Floatation rooms. Service is polished but unfussy.

Who's it for

Bottom line

This is Dubai's most convincing urban-business hotel for guests who refuse to compromise on design and drinks. The mid-century styling, the cocktail programme, and the slight remove from DIFC's busiest streets are what set it apart from neighbouring Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton. Book a corner suite for the two-wall window wrap, and time a stay around summer rates when DIFC empties out.