Dubai is where travelers go to take luxury to the next level. Part of the United Arab Emirates, this city-state has cultivated a reputation as one of the most exclusive destinations in the world. Everything is bigger, better and brighter in Dubai. The streets are sparkling clean, the police drive lamborghinis and the shopping is second-to-none. It should come as no surprise, then, that Dubai is home to some of the most beautiful hotels in the world. Five star is the standard in this part of the world, so you’re spoiled for choice. I’ve carefully selected the true standout properties on offer for this list of the most luxurious hotels in Dubai. 

Burj Al Arab 

If you know anything about Dubai then you knew this one was coming. You can’t write a list of the most luxurious hotels in Dubai without mentioning the seven star Burj Al Arab. In fact, it claims to be the most luxurious hotel in the world. That’s a pretty difficult claim to validate, but I can confirm that the Burj Al Arab is definitely up there. Even the most discerning luxury travelers will be blown away by the next-level opulence of this stunning property. 

With an over-ocean infinity pool, nine signature restaurants and a fleet of chauffeur-driven Rolls Royces, you’ll want for nothing at this gorgeous sail-shaped hotel. Apple fans will rejoice that each suite comes with an iPad, a 21-inch iMac and a Bose iPhone docking station – sorry, Android loyalists. You’re on the wrong side of history. 

Having been raised in the Bahamas, I love afternoon tea. At the Burj Al Arab you can enjoy it 657 feet up at the Sky View Bar. If you’re afraid of heights, you can swap your tea for a cocktail to calm your nerves.

Bulgari Hotel and Resort 

The name Bulgari alone implies next-level luxury and their eponymous resort doesn’t disappoint. It’s beautifully extravagant and every last detail has been fine-tuned to perfection, and that’s truly where the magic lies. In Dubai, there’s no shortage of accommodation with pristine private beaches and spa-worthy bathrooms. It’s the Bulgari Hotel’s artistic touches that make it unique. Details like the coral-inspired latticework and the secret minibar hidden inside a vintage trunk are what set the Bulgari apart. 

One&Only Royal Mirage 

Royal is right – this luxury hotel is every inch a five-star Arabian palace, replete with domes, pointed arches and palm trees wrapped in fairy lights. This hotel is a perfect choice for any traveler who wants to immerse themselves in Arabian culture and live like Emirati royalty. 

The suites at the Royal Mirage are opulent, with plush furniture and intricate Moorish patterns. I’d highly recommend a visit to the Moroccan spa. You can experience a high-class hammam experience and emerge with the softest, smoothest skin you’ve ever seen. 

For those who favor sleek modernity over rich tradition, there’s the Drift Mediterranean beach club where white furniture, clean lines and dance music are the order of the day. However, there’s a replica of the Dubai frame by the pool, just to remind you where you are. This makes for a killer Instagram photo if you can get your angles right! 

The Palazzo Versace 

This 16th century-style Italian palace is unquestionably one of the most luxurious hotels in Dubai. It’s almost absurdly extravagant, and exactly the kind of luxury experience people head to Dubai for. All of the Renaissance-inspired furniture and fabrics are tailor-made by the House of Versace and naturally, there’s an in-house boutique. With lashings of gold leaf and imposing marble columns everywhere you look, this themed hotel wouldn’t be out of place in Las Vegas. 

Caesars Palace Bluewaters

Speaking of Las Vegas, Sin City’s most notorious hotel has a branch out here in Dubai, too. However, you won’t find a casino here as gambling is illegal throughout the United Arab Emirates. That doesn’t bother me, though, as I’m not a high roller. It’s unlikely to bother you either once you see how impressive this resort is. 

The Caesars Palace is occupies its own island and actually comprises three hotels: 

• Caesars Palace, a fun hotel best suited to adults.
  
• Caesars Resort, which has a family-friendly vibe. 
  
• The Residences at Caesars, where you can enjoy a “home from home” experience and even stay long-term. 
  

Although there’s no casino, Caesars at Bluewaters bears many similarities with the Vegas original: Gordon Ramsey’s restaurant and seriously impressive upscale shopping. Bluewaters island also features the gigantic Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel. Overall, I’d say that the Bluewaters branch is a little classier and less gimmicky than Caesars’ maiden property, but that’s a given. 

Rixos The Palm 

Rixos The Palm is Dubai’s best luxury all-inclusive hotel. Prior to my girls’ trip to the Maldives I hadn’t experienced an all-inclusive vacation before and I absolutely loved it. With panoramic views of the skyline, a spacious pool and luxe beach cabanas, it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge in Dubai. The hotel also has an in-house diving centre so it’s a great choice for adventurous types. There are also several Mediterranean restaurants where you can enjoy fresh, healthy food at any time of day. 

For more on Dubai, check out this list of reasons to visit.