Where To Stay in Dubai – 20 Luxury Dubai Hotels and Great Value Apartments
Wondering where to stay in Dubai? Explore great value apartments or indulge in luxury Dubai hotels for an unforgettable stay in the city.
Choosing where to stay in Dubai can be daunting, but it’s a decision that can truly make or break your holiday. Whether you’re looking to relax in one of the best Dubai hotels, embark on a desert adventure, or explore the city’s iconic attractions, each area offers its own unique charm and style of accommodation.
I visited Dubai recently and have listed the best areas to stay, along with Dubai hotel recommendations that cater for all tastes and budgets. So whether you’re planning a fun girls trip to Dubai or a family holiday, there’s something for everyone.
Best Areas To Stay in Dubai
Dubai is more spread out than you might think, so there isn’t a single ‘central’ location. I’ve listed the six best areas to stay in Dubai, as well as the best hotels and apartments below, so you can choose the hotel or resort to suit your holiday style.
JBR – Jumeirah Beach Residence / The Walk
This is where Sarah and I chose to stay during our holidays in Dubai. I wanted to be within short walking distance of the beach, with plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants right on my doorstep, and JBR offered exactly that. You will also see references to The Walk – this is the name of the promenade strip of Jumeirah Beach Residence, so when you see hotels listed on ‘The Walk’ this is in the same area.
The nearby marina offers enjoy epic sunsets, and top class restaurants, as well as camels crossing the beach every evening! You’ll also find popular spots like The Cheesecake Factory and Raising Cane’s here. I personally think JBR is the perfect place to stay for any type of holiday in Dubai.
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is located just behind JBR and serves as a fantastic base for your trip. The area is packed with a wide variety of restaurants, and at night, the stunning lights and boats docked in the marina create an incredible atmosphere.
You can easily walk to JBR and the beach in just a few minutes – footbridges connect the two. While you’re there, be sure to check out Pier 7, a chic food court offering a diverse range of cuisines, including Asian options at Asia Asia and street food inspired dishes at Cargo.
Dubai Marina is home to a variety of affordable stays, with its towering high rise buildings offering many stunning apartments for tourists. See my top recommendations below.
The Palm Jumeirah
This is the area that most people think of when they envision Dubai’s iconic beach resorts. The Palm is where you will find 4 and 5 star Dubai hotels and resorts including the famous Atlantis The Palm which is known for its incredible water park, aquarium, and luxurious hotel rooms.
The Palm features some of Dubai’s finest dining establishments, shopping options, and leisure activities. The boardwalk along The Palm offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline, and it is perfect for a stroll or cycle.
Top Tip: One thing to keep in mind if you decide to stay on The Palm is the traffic. It’s a popular area with only one road in and out, so be prepared for occasional traffic delays.
See my top hotel recommendations below.
Downtown Dubai
If you are planning to explore Dubai’s most iconic attractions like the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, then staying in Downtown Dubai puts you at the heart of it, and a taxi ride away from the beach. Many visitors choose to stay here if they are on a short stopover in Dubai and have limited time to see Dubai’s major attractions.
For those who enjoy shopping, Downtown Dubai is home to the famous Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world, offering everything from high end luxury brands to popular international stores. The mall also features ski slopes, an aquarium, and a wide range of restaurants making it a one stop destination for entertainment and dining.
Read : Top things to do in Dubai
See my top hotel recommendations below.
Deira – Old Dubai
Deira is one of the oldest districts in Dubai, giving you a taste of the city’s traditional side. It’s a great place if you want to explore the cultural heart of Dubai, with bustling souks, local markets, and a more historical atmosphere. Some family friendly resorts are close by making it a great place to base yourself to explore the old city.
The Dubai Creek runs through Deira, you can take an abra which is a traditional boat ride across the Creek for a small fee, providing a spectacular view of both old and new Dubai.
See my top hotel recommendations below.
Jebel Ali
Jebel Ali is located just a short drive from the bustling heart of Dubai and is ideal for those looking for a more laidback, family-friendly area with luxurious beachfront resorts. This area provides a peaceful retreat while still offering easy access to the city’s attractions.
Jebel Ali is also conveniently close to Legoland, so it is no surprise that there are many Dubai hotels for families here. Additionally, the JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort features a 9 hole championship golf course and a golf academy, catering to both beginners and seasonal golfers.
See my top hotel recommendations below.
Best Dubai Hotels and Apartments
Dubai offers a wide variety of hotels, resorts, and apartments catering to all types of travellers. I have carefully selected a range of properties, from family friendly hotels to fully equipped self catering apartments, ensuring options for every preference. The Dubai hotels listed below are either highly rated, ideally located, or particularly popular with holidaymakers.
Dubai Marina & Jumeirah Beach Residence – The Best Place to Stay in Dubai
I believe Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence / The Walk are the best places to stay in Dubai. With this in mind I have picked 10 hotels and apartments here.
1. Hilton Dubai The Walk
The 4-star hotel Hilton Dubai The Walk is located in JBR near Dubai Marina, just a minute’s walk from a private beach. The hotel is in close proximity to the beachfront cafés and shopping complex, offering a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
The availability of 2, 3, and 4 bedroom suites make it one of the best hotels in Dubai for families. The hotel offers stunning sea views of Ain Dubai (Dubai Ferris wheel) and Palm Jumeirah, and it has variety of dining options, including the remarkable Pure Sky Lounge on the 35th floor, which offers breath taking views.
2. Signature Hotel Apartments and Spa
You cant beat this place for price and convenient location! Overlooking the stunning Marina and just a 5 minute drive from Marina Mall, the 4 Star Signature Hotel Apartments and Spa offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. This is deal for those seeking good value self catering Dubai apartments, with a fully equipped kitchen.
The hotel’s spa provides a relaxing escape, complete with an outdoor pool, gym, and a variety of beauty and wellness treatments.
3. Blue Beach Tower The Walk
Formerly the JA Oasis Beach Tower, this superbly located hotel offers premium suites that cater for families and groups. Sarah stayed here during her family holiday in Dubai and loved it. There is a pool, two restaurants and fitness centre on site, and it is located on The Walk with numerous shops, bars and restaurants on your doorstep.
Dining out in Dubai is expensive and with a spacious apartment you can happily enjoy a night in – this makes the Blue Beach Tower a great option for family hotel in Dubai.
4. JA Ocean View
Located in the heart of Dubai Marina, this 5 star resort offers an excellent base for your Dubai trip. Just a short walk from the beach and nearby restaurants, it’s perfect for adults or families, featuring a kids’ club, kids’ pool, playground, and even babysitting services. A favourite among holidaymakers, the hotel offers contemporary rooms, some with stunning views of JBR.
5. Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach
The Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach is other top-class choice located on The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence, and just five minutes walk to Dubai marina. There is a host of dining options and cool bars with sea views, but despite its superb location and five-star reviews, it tends to be more reasonably priced that some of the other 5 star hotels in Dubai. This top-rated hotel can offer a luxury holiday in Dubai without breaking the bank.
6. W Dubai Mina Seyahi
W Dubai-Mina Seyahi is a world class resort located on the Jumeirah Beach coastline. It is a little further from The Walk (about 12 minutes walk ) than some of the others on this list, but its private beach and access to Barasti Beach Club make up for this!
With a wide selection of bars and restaurants on site, you don’t even need to leave the hotel. WET Deck at Ginger Moon is at the heart of the hotel, which has day and night live entertainment by the infinity pool overlooking the Palm Jumeirah, and there are DJ sets from the indoor and outdoor Farrago Bar too. All rooms offer unobstructed views over the Arabian Gulf and offer an unforgettable stay in Dubai.
7. The Address Beach Resort
Home to the world’s tallest infinity pool, this chic, contemporary hotel is the place to be seen in Dubai. As well as this iconic rooftop pool ( over 21’s only ), it has a lively cocktail bar that is ideal for pre or post dinner drinks, as well as a host of dining options. Its location along The Walk adds to its popularity too, with the beach, marina and plenty of shops and restaurants on your doorstep.
8. Jumeirah Beach Hotel
The Jumeirah Beach Hotel is one of the most iconic Dubai hotels that has been welcoming visitors since 1997. Sarah stayed here many years ago and loved it. It has its own private beach overlooking the Burj Al Arab and is home to 10 restaurants and bars and 5 pools. All hotel guests can enjoy free unlimited access to Wild Wadi Waterpark™ making it a popular choice for family holidays in Dubai. The Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a 10-minute stroll from the hotel, with a further choice of shops, bars and restaurants to enjoy.
9. Grosvenor House, A Luxury Collection Hotel
With a personalised butler service, a choice culinary experiences and rooms boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, it is no surprise that this is one the best 5 star hotels in Dubai. Located at Dubai Marina, guests can enjoy all the amenities of this vibrant location as well as having full access to the beach, pool and leisure facilities at Grosvenor’s sister hotel, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa. A free shuttle service is available between the two.
The bars and restaurants are a big draw here, with a weekly seafood buffet at Sloane’s, and the popular Buddha Bar and Bar 44 which offers top-floor views of the Marina.
10. Rove Dubai Marina
If you are looking for one of the best cheap hotels in Dubai that is located in a prime location – look no further! Despite its 3 Star rating The Rove Dubai Marina receives rave reviews from guests and has over 3,000 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor. Located in Dubai Marina with a free shuttle bus to the beach and Mall, this is one of the best value hotels in Dubai.
The Palm Jumeirah – Luxury Dubai Hotels
11. Atlantis The Palm
For the ultimate Dubai experience, stay at the iconic Atlantis The Palm! This world renowned resort offers an exciting range of activities, including the Aquaventure Waterpark and 32 bars and restaurants.
There is never a dull moment at this hotel! Highlights like the vibrant Saffron Brunch every Saturday, featuring all inclusive food, drinks, and entertainment. Guests can also explore the impressive Aquarium and enjoy shopping at the expansive hotel complex.
This hotel is one of the best luxury hotels in Dubai for families. The Zone provides a dedicated space for kids to relax and have fun, with watersports, arcade games, and bowling available throughout the day.
12. FIVE Palm Jumeirah
If you’re seeking a luxury Dubai hotel similar to Atlantis, but at a more affordable price, Fives The Palm is the perfect choice. Situated at the entrance of the Palm, it offers stunning skyline views and is just a short drive from JBR, Dubai Marina, and Downtown area of Dubai.
With modern décor, lively pool parties, and a vibrant atmosphere, it draws a fun crowd. The hotel features 14 bars and restaurants, a beachfront location, and upgraded suites and villas, making it an excellent option for a couples getaway or a Dubai holiday with friends.
Downtown Dubai – Big and Busy
13. Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai
Ramada Downtown Dubai overlooks the iconic Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. It is just 10 minute walk to the Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar, so it is ideally located for shopping as well as being close to the top attractions. Hotel facilities include a heated outdoor swimming pool, gym, steam room, kids’ pool, and children’s outdoor and indoor play areas.
14. Apartment Dubai Fountain View by Auberge
This apartment is located in the heart of Dubai, beside the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain, and just 10 minutes walk to the Dubai mall. With free parking, WiFi, air conditioning, and convenient amenities like a dishwasher and coffee machine, as well as an infinity pool, this offers great value for a central stay in Dubai.
Deira Old Dubai – Historic charm
15. Al Bandar Rotana- Dubai Creek
Al Bandar Rotana is a modern 5-star hotel with a prime waterfront location in the heart of Dubai’s Deira. Perfect for both business and leisure travellers, it’s close to attractions like Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Dubai Dolphinarium, and the Rise Dubai Creek Harbour entertainment complex.
The hotel offers rooms and suites with stunning city or creek views, stylish décor, and top notch amenities including 5 restaurants and a pool.
16. RIU Dubai – All Inclusive Dubai Hotel
Near the old city of Deira this all inclusive Dubai hotel offers 3 pools – 2 with swim-up bars, water slides, 4 restaurants and a selection of bars and entertainment on site. Its stunning beachfront location, and short 12 minute drive to Deira’s traditional souks, make it a super choice in Dubai.
Want to bring the kids along? The Kids Club, entertainment, and free access to the waterpark make it a great hotel for families in Dubai too. Check out the reviews on TripAdvisor if you still need convincing.
Jebel Ali – Laidback and Peaceful
17. JA The Resort
The stunning all inclusive 5 star Dubai Hotel is situated on the coast of Jebel Ali and offers a perfect laidback location. The hotel sits on an 800 metre long private beach and is a short drive from the JBR area in Dubai. There are 3 hotels within the complex so you can choose the best one to suit your needs.
With an abundance of activities, you’ll never run out of things to do, whether it’s horse riding, clay-pigeon shooting, or enjoying the resort’s 9 hole golf course and academy. For extra fun, there’s also a waterpark on the grounds. There are 25 bars and restaurants to choose from including a floating seafood restaurant.
Dubai Islands – Something different
18. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa
Nikki Beach Resort is a luxury five star beachfront hotel that is located on Pearl Jumeira. While its iconic Beach Club is the big draw here, there is no denying the outstanding reviews from guests – it is rated the 2nd best hotel in Dubai on TripAdvisor, and is particularly popular with for friends and girls trips to Dubai. If you fancy splashing out, the Celebration Suite is the largest suite in Dubai and there are two bedroom suites and villas with private pools for the ultimate girls weekend away.
As well as the lively atmosphere, there is a Spa and Wellness Centre, tennis courts and a private beach if you fancy a chill out day.
19. Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort
The 5 star Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort is a lavish hotel on the renowned World Islands, a remarkable man-made island group located just off the coast of Dubai. This exceptional resort provides guests with an unique experience that combines relaxing island life with modern luxury.
If you are looking for an exclusive escape with stunning views, pristine surroundings, and a wide range of high end amenities, then look no further. This is one of the best Dubai hotels for a peaceful beach stay.
Desert Stay – Off the beaten path
20. Romance Desert Camp
If you want to swap lavish beach resorts and camp in the desert under the stars, then check out this unique stay in Dubai! This Air B&B is privately owned so it offers complete privacy, allowing you to tailor your desert experience exactly how you want.
Whether you prefer a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a lively desert party, you have the freedom to create the experience that suits you best. Why not combine a stay here with a beach stay in a luxury hotel for the ultimate Dubai experience.
You can also book package holidays to Dubai including flights and accommodation, with deposit options available.
I hope this article helps you choose where to stay in Dubai. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, prices and experiences are subject to change. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional charge to you.
