What it is

A seafront hideaway decked with manicured gardens on a Palm Island private peninsula.

What it isn't

Flavorless. The on-site restaurants are helmed by Yannick Alléno—who has garnered three Michelin stars for his work since 2007 (NBD!).

What we think

There’s nothing more upsetting than flying halfway across the globe to check into a resort that, aesthetically, could be in Omaha. That’s one reason why this ultra-pampering luxury retreat is such a stunner—it’s as Arabian as they come, with intricate lattice-work and hand-hammered twinkling details at every turn. Guest rooms—which start at a whopping 700-square feet—sit open to the exultant fresh air, and each would coddle any member of the royal Al Maktoum family, with sweeping terraces, rain showers and marble baths. Something tells us you’ll spend most afternoons, though, cozied up on a turquoise daybed adjacent to the mosaic-lined, 9,100-square-foot pool.

You're here because

The resort’s Guerlain Spa—the only one in the UAE—is nothing short of exquisite, with Moorish architecture, a soothing hammam, and Arabian-inspired treatments (ask for the four-hand imperial massage and you’ll never go back to one masseur).

The Moment

There are few skylines in the world that rival Dubai’s—a fact that’s never been more clear to you than now, as you hop in one of the resort’s boats to take in the view from the water. Your destination: 101 Dining, Lounge & Bar, set on a deck overlooking the cityscape—and perhaps the most glamorous place for oysters in mignonette and a flute of Louis Roederer you’ve ever experienced.

Restaurants & Bars

STAY - French cuisine by Michelin-star chef Yannick Alléno

ZEST - Western, Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines

101 Dining Lounge & Bar - Mediterranean-styles dishes and tapas

101 Bar - cocktails and views of New Dubai

The Lounge - small bites and evening cocktails

Location

Don’t want to fret about airport transfers? Don’t worry. Guests can simply ask the resort to handle your chauffeured luxury car ride from Dubai International Airport (45-minutes) or Abu Dhabi International (70). No drama necessary.