Dubai's Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab ‘more than just a resort' says hotel boss
'This integration of luxury, innovation, and well-being ensures that Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is more than just a resort—it's a destination designed to offer transformative experiences that set a new benchmark for hospitality in the region,' Dursun told Arabian Business.
Located next to the iconic Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel, the new resort completes what the company calls its 'nautical trilogy.' Designed by Shaun Killa, the property includes 386 sea-facing rooms and suites, private residences, a marina, a three-floor wellness and spa centre, and 11 dining venues.
The future of luxury travel
Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is part of Jumeirah Group's broader Mission 2030 strategy to double its portfolio. According to Dursun, the resort was developed in response to a shift in traveller expectations.
'Travellers are now prioritising thoughtful experiences over material opulence, seeking unique and culturally rich stays,' he said. 'We're integrating wellness, immersive culinary excellence, and cultural-led experiences that keep the hotel at the forefront of the booming industry.'
The Talise Spa spans three levels and includes the UAE's first Remedy Suite, featuring cutting-edge treatments such as Cryotherapy, ChromoSpace light therapy, and a Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber. A female-only floor, 20-meter indoor pool, and performance-focused fitness studio round out the wellness offering.
'The Remedy Suite, a first in Dubai, offers innovative therapies such as Cryotherapy, ChromoSpace light treatments, the iDome Infra-Red Triple Detox Treatment, and a Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber,' Durun highlighted, this aims to offer a 360-degree approach that extends beyond conventional spa treatments to incorporate mindfulness, nutrition, and performance-driven fitness.
Sustainability features were also built into the design from the outset. 'Sustainability is also integral to the hotel's design, with self-shading terraces reducing energy consumption, greywater recycling for irrigation, and energy-efficient lighting,' he explained.
Dining is a key focus of the guest experience, with a signature concept called The Fore – a multi-restaurant venue that transforms throughout the day across four distinct offerings: Umi Kei, Madame Li, Mirabelle, and The Bombay Club. Other highlights include Kinugawa, Rialto, Iliana, and a partnership with Pierre Hermé for the Lobby Lounge.
Cultural collaborations with UAE-based artists and designers are also integrated into the resort's interiors and programming. 'Our partnerships with regional creatives create an ever-evolving dialogue between tradition and modernity,' said Dursun.
Adapting to new luxury demands
Durun said the property responds to the shift in luxury demand by 'integrating wellness, immersive culinary excellence and cultural-led experiences that keep the hotel at the forefront of the booming industry.'
'Positioned as a distinctive lifestyle destination, our strategy for the coming years revolves around creating memorable guest experiences… and leveraging Dubai's evolving luxury landscape,' he added.
Early response to the opening has been strong, particularly in wellness and dining. 'Since opening, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab has been met with incredible excitement and enthusiasm,' Dursun said. 'Guests have responded strongly to the impressive design, and intuitive service.'
'The combination of around-the-clock service, seamless luxury, and a distinctive sense of discovery has positioned the resort as the ultimate destination for the modern traveller,' he concluded.
Bookings for the ultra-luxury resort officially opened to guests last month with special packages for UAE residents and GCC visitors.
Earlier this year, two penthouses at Marsa Al Arab were sold for AED706 million through Sotheby's International Realty in Dubai, marking one of the highest-value penthouse deals globally.
Each residence offers direct access to a superyacht marina, a private lobby, and two private elevators.
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