Impressive, innovative, and insane levels of luxury are how one could very easily describe Dubai. With the tallest building in the world—the Burj Khalifa—Dubai’s skyline is one of the most captivating in the world. Luxury is clearly the standard here. Sip gold- infused coffee at the local cafés, shop the finest designers like Christian Dior, Dolce and Gabbana, and Hermes at the Burjuman Centre, and experience a nightlife scene so electric that you’ll wonder how anyone ever sleeps. Dubai is hot year-round, so Chris and I recommend visiting between November and March when the temps are bearable and the beach weather is at its prime.
Armani Hotel Dubai
Located in the Burj Khalifa, the world’s most iconic tower, Armani Hotel Dubai is suave and understated, with each design detail personally chosen by Giorgio Armani himself. Behind guest-room doors, subtle elegance reigns – walls adorned with handmade leather from Florence, floors covered with Japanese tatami, and bathrooms clad in gray stones from Alicante, Spain – all blending seamlessly with the clean, curved lines of the tower’s architecture. The 12,000-square-foot Armani/SPA tailors every experience to each guest. Dining venues featuring Italian, Mediterranean, Japanese, and Indian cuisine await.
WIT Tip: Reserve an Armani Fountain Suite on a lower floor so you can watch the entire panorama of The Dubai Fountain water show.
Bulgari Resort Dubai
A new jewel in exclusive Jumeira Bay Island, set on a private seahorse-shaped island, Bulgari Resort Dubai is an urban oasis akin to a charming Mediterranean village (and yet just a ten-minute drive from downtown). From the 20 Bulgari pool villas to the stunning La Spiaggia beach club, from the superlative spa to the private marina and yacht club to the two Little Gems Kids Clubs, the peerless resort defines the sparkling hospitality for which Bulgari Hotels & Resorts is known. Don’t miss a night at Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Italy and showcasing dramatic views of the Arabian Gulf.
WIT Tip: Indulge in the Bulgari Spa Journey: a full-body, juniper-scented body scrub, plus Shiatsu and Western-style massage for total rebalancing.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
The legendary sail-shaped silhouette of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is more than just a stunning hotel – it is an icon of Dubai. Rising from a man-made island, 280 meters from the shores of the renowned Jumeirah Beach and designed to resemble the graceful sails of an Arabian dhow, it soars to a height of 321 meters, dominating Dubai’s coastline. The all-suite hotel offers 202 luxury duplexes with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, private beach access, and a breathtaking terrace with pools and cabanas, as well as nine world-class dining venues, including the highly acclaimed Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara.
WIT Tip: Bathroom amenities are full-size his-and-hers Hermès products.
Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
Boasting a palatial lobby, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows looking out to the beautiful gardens and Arabian Gulf, the Four Seasons Resort Dubai is an oasis nestled in the heart of the exclusive Jumeirah area. With polished marble and custom Murano chandeliers, it exudes luxury with understated elegance. Three pools, water sports, and many shopping and dining outlets provide plenty of activities to occupy all. The jewel atop the resort, the Mercury Lounge is host to spectacular sights over both the sea and the Dubai skyline, offering guests views of the Burj Khalifa unlike anywhere else in the city!
WIT Tip: Try the signature cocktails at Mercury Lounge, a favorite hot spot in Dubai.
Beyond its impressive exterior, Dubai is one of the most diverse cities in the world, attracting residents from every country imaginable (bonus: English is widely spoken here!). Upon landing in Dubai, prepare to be swept away by luxury at every turn of the road, sunsets that make the skyline smolder, and a vast culture delivering something new and exciting to experience daily.
