Latest news with #DelanoDubai
The National
23-05-2025
- The National
Delano Dubai review: Miami export is a modern wonderland
When Lewis Carroll wrote Alice's Adventures in Wonderland in 1865, he could not have predicted how influential it would become. Stepping into Delano Dubai is just like falling down the rabbit hole featured in that famous novel. 'We just want guests to come and relax, you know? Forget about the outside world and be in this world,' a member of the guest relations team tells me. It's an ethos taken from the brand's flagship Miami hotel, which opened in 1995, and its Maison Delano in Paris, which opened in 2023. The National checks in to find out what's beyond the looking glass at the Bluewaters Island hotel. Having visited The Banyan Tree on Bluewaters Island just a few days before, I think I've made a mistake on the taxi booking app when my driver begins following a familiar path, pulling off the main road at the same turn. But as he reaches the security gates, he takes a left turn to the aforementioned hotel, which also has residential buildings, and a right turn to enter Delano Dubai. Together, the two hotels took over the space that was once Caesar's Palace, another US export. Behind the thin, translucent curtains – a signature design feature of the hotel – is a bright and airy lobby. Cream rugs top light pine floors, and more fabric drapes from tall ceilings against white walls and glass panels overlooking the sea. Minimal furniture includes oyster-hued curved sofas, tall potted plants and monochrome coffee tables topped with travel books. After a smooth check-in, the mood shifts as my guest and I leave the lobby. While the same curtains grace the corridors, the lights have faded, dimly shining over the dark marble floors as we enter the tunnel into 'Wonderland'. As we check into the fourth-floor room, the fun begins. It's one of the best hotel rooms I've stayed in. I notice the stunning terrace view: palm trees, hotel pool, blue seas. Cliched perhaps, but I do feel miles away from home, despite being a short drive away. Besides the bed, there is a sofa underneath one small window, indoor-opening wooden shutters adding extra charm. A sizeable study desk as well as a padded foot bench and a big light-up wardrobe complete the amenities. The refreshing spritz and range of desserts is a nice touch. The bath, shower and wash basin are in a separate room from the toilet. It's nice to see a sensible design decision here, meaning guests can soak in the supersized bath for lengthy periods without disruption. I also love the Byredo products the bathroom is stocked with. With dark hues and low lights, sultry vibes are consistent throughout the hotel. Things lighten up by the pool, though. Delano strikes a delicate balance with its poolside ambience. There's music and a buzz of chatter, but it's also possible to peacefully tuck into a novel. There are plenty of spots to throw down a towel for the day, from poolside loungers to cabanas and hammocks. Staying true to its Miami roots, two bistro chairs and a table stand firm in the pool's shallow end. Supposedly, they're an ode to Roman baths; a place to come together, unwind, discuss ideas. The gym is an unexpected highlight. It's spacious, with great sea and pool views and screens with workout programmes to select. During my visit, the on-site personal trainer gives me a challenging yet rewarding session. There are several restaurants in Delano Dubai, from Tutto Passa to Blue Door and The Delano Pool & Bar and the Rose Bar. Breakfast is a beautiful spread of classic morning foods, with a pastry offering to marvel over. The friendly staff remember from the previous evening that I'm vegan and bring me fresh avocado toast, a bowl of mixed berries, a chia yoghurt pudding and an oat latte before I even have the chance to scan the buffet. The night before, it was a specially-made vegan pizza for me (Dh95) and fresh spinach and ricotta ravioli (Dh105) for my guest. We also enjoyed colourful panzanella salad (Dh75), made with cherry tomatoes, red onion, crispy croutons, basil and cucumber and a bread basket to share. We also dine at Gohan in neighbouring Banyan Tree, tucking into edamame (Dh27); sweet soy cauliflower (Dh40); shiitake mushroom skewers (Dh35); baby spinach salad (Dh54); and the a vegan maki selection (Dh44). Each bite demonstrates vegan dishes done well, simple vegetables dressed and seasoned to make a lasting impression. Our final visit is to the speakeasy-style Rose Bar. The drinks are spectacular, but it's the disco room with light-up floors that stands out. The seating is reminiscent of disco balls and there are mirrors for walls. There may not be any Mad Hatter tea parties, but you won't get bored between the hotel amenities and the surrounding venues on Bluewaters Island. There is Madame Tussauds Dubai, Swingers Crazy Golf, an interactive City of Illusions museum, an arcade gaming zone at Brass Monkey, igloo-style dining at The Pods restaurant overlooking the water, and many more restaurants and bars to visit. Ain Dubai is also back in motion. Small details add up to a positive big picture at Delano Dubai. Despite a hiccup here or there, the overall experience is positive, making the hotel one I'd confidently recommend. Pricing is dependent on the dates and the season, with deluxe rooms starting at approximately Dh2,000 per night. Check-in is from 3pm and checkout is at noon. This review was conducted at the invitation of the resort and reflects standards during this time. Services may change in the future
Globe and Mail
08-05-2025
- Globe and Mail
At the Delano Dubai hotel, luxury is served up with a twist of Miami style
Whether you find yourself in Dubai for a quick business trip or on a stopover heading further afield, this is a city that wants you to come and gawk. The world's tallest building? Check. A ski slope in the desert? Yep. So it's fitting that Dubai's new luxury resort is found on Bluewaters Island, the man-made patch of land that has become a playground for well-heeled sightseers. Tucked behind the city's famous Ain Dubai, the world's tallest Ferris wheel, the beachfront resort hotel Delano Dubai has set up shop where anything seems possible (if you have enough cash), even a fake island. Perched on the shores of the Persian Gulf, Delano Dubai opened its doors in October, 2024, after taking over a stand-alone wing of the former Caesar's Palace; a 10-month renovation saw rooms expanded and rebranded. Why you should visit Guests looking for a reprieve from the city's trademark opulence will get a change of scene here. The 251-room Delano takes its design cues from its Miami outpost, opting for floor-to-ceiling windows in the lobby to showcase the sea view, sleek white-oak flooring and muted furniture with pops of deep, rich colour from the velvet banquettes. At night, the hotel closes the billowy white curtains and dims the lights to transform the lobby into a candle-lit haven, like the living room of your richest friend. Delano's South Beach mothership looms large here. Framed photos of the Florida hotel line the walls, and bowls of green apples sit at the check-in desk, a nod to designer Philippe Starck, who made his mark in Miami with signs emblazoned with the quote, 'An apple a day keeps the doctor away.' In Dubai, guests return to their room to find a fresh apple placed in a green glass jar. Expect more sleek minimalism in your room. White walls and curtains give the rooms a beachy, clean vibe, accented by light floors and cabinetry. Plush robes, slippers and a Dyson hairdryer are tucked away in the closet. Marble bathrooms are outfitted with Byredo toiletries and waffle towels. (A fun bonus: Hidden speakers in the bathroom pipe in the sound from your TV in the adjoining sleep area, letting you listen to the news while you get ready.) Instead of gilded chandeliers or gold-plated anything, Delano flexes its luxury muscle in more subtle ways. The hotel rooms come stocked with a mini-bar offering up undereye hydration patches for puffy eyes, packets of electrolytes and beauty collagen shots along with the usual array of tea, coffee and snacks. There's no spa here; instead, the hotel is gearing up to open an 'aesthetics clinic' to offer Botox and filler treatments to beauty-conscious guests. But workout buffs will find everything they need in the 24-hour gym, including a full selection of free weights, machines and a yoga studio, plus a separate and private outdoor space for yoga, Pilates classes and meditation. But the pool is where the real action is. Here, you'll find families and couples lounging under umbrellas or towelling off after a dip under the swaying palm trees. The hotel's Pool & Beach restaurant is on the pool deck and is a great place to grab an outdoor salad or a cool drink and soak up the party-lite vibe: the upbeat soundtrack in the background is not obtrusive enough to interrupt a light snooze or a good book. Better yet, head to the beach just steps away from the pool and marvel at the fact that you're standing on an island that didn't exist a decade ago. While service was prompt and friendly, the hotel is still ironing out some minor wrinkles. Wait staff at the hotel's poolside restaurant Tutto Passa seemed flustered and overwhelmed by the breakfast crowd, so securing a much-needed cup of coffee was needlessly complicated. More surprising, and perhaps less forgivable at a luxury resort, was the noticeable absence of poolside service. You want a high-end mocktail or a cold glass of water to beat the heat? You're on your own. Step off the island with Frying Pan Adventures for a walking tour in old Dubai, where enthusiastic host Farida Ahmed introduces visitors to all her favourite haunts and gently corrects your pronunciation of 'hummus.' We sampled fresh falafel, an Iraqi fish dish and a delicious array of desserts, including the famous kanafa. You'll leave the tour feeling like a stuffed local. For a fancier but also completely unpretentious meal on the town, head to Orfali Brothers in the Al Wasl neighbourhood. Chefs and siblings Mohammad, Wassim and Omar pay tribute to their Syrian roots, serving up fun plates such as 'corn bomb' (a crunchy tortilla topped with corn and aged Parmigiano-Reggiano) and 'come with me to Aleppo' (a kebab of wagyu beef with sour cherries on top). The restaurant doesn't serve alcohol, but prides itself on an extensive array of house-made mocktails, including an impressive smoked-sour-cherry kombucha. Be sure to try the vanilla caramel tart and the strawberry cheesecake, which look like works of art. It's easy to be seduced by the cool elegance of the Delano, which offers a welcome hideaway on Bluewaters Island far from the towering skyscrapers and big-city bustle. It's almost enough to make you forget that you'll be stuck in Dubai's infamous traffic again in no time. Rooms start at around $925 a night. Emirates Airlines offers direct flights from Toronto and Montreal; travellers passing through Dubai on a long layover may qualify for the airline's Dubai Connect program, which offers complimentary hotel accommodation, transfers and meals. If your transfer is longer, the airline's Dubai Stopover program can help make the most of it with exclusive perks and discounts to city attractions. The writer was a guest of the hotel. It did not review or approve the story before publication.
Time Out Dubai
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Looking for the perfect date night spot in Dubai? Choose Rose Bar
Searching for a spot that gives you enough privacy to have a meaningful conversation, looks good from every angle and has delicious drinks? It's time to add Rose Bar at Delano Dubai to your list. Found inside the luxurious resort Delano Dubai on Bluewaters, the now reimagined space brings a lovely dose of vintage glam to Dubai's fast-paced nightlife. It's softly lit, stylish and has enough intimate nooks and tucked-away corners where you can truly enjoy your conversation. The heavily draped velvet curtains, matching plush seating and a quartz-topped bar all make the spot beautiful. Rose Bar originally made its name in Miami, drawing in the city's in-crowd with its low-key glamour and clever mixed drinks back in the 90s. Dubai's version picks up that legacy with a menu that's anything but ordinary. The mixed drinks are creative, clever and packed with fruity, herby and citrus flavours. The playful craftsmanship of the mixologists shines in standout sips like the Hanky Panky (a Juniper beverage classic), the signature Rose Bar grape mix and the New Deal, a combo of Juniper beverage, basil, passion fruit, coconut milk and elderflower. When you're feeling peckish, snack on the fun, Americana-inspired bar bites. You won't want to miss the lobster tacos with crispy tempura and zingy salsa, or the retro-tastic Rose Bar Club Sandwich 1995. With a setting this stunning and drinks that impress, it's the kind of place that makes you raise a glass to the good times, whether you're out with your besties or your amore. So, throw on your best look, dust on some glitter and get ready for a fabulous evening. Get planning: Open daily 6pm-2am. Delano Dubai, delanohotels (04 556 6466).
FACT
28-03-2025
- Business
- FACT
Staycation Spotlight: Can Delano Dubai reawaken Bluewaters Island?
The Delano brand makes its debut in the Middle East. Bluewaters Island in Dubai has had its fair share of challenges. Ain Dubai stopped spinning, Caesars Palace Dubai closed, and, during the day, it is a sleepy spot. Now, the five-star hotel Delano Dubai has opened, and it looks set to wake up the island with its bars, restaurants and beach clubs. The hospitality company, Ennismore, is behind Delano Dubai, which marks the first Delano hotel in the Middle East. In 1995, the first Delano opened in Miami, and wherever you are in the world, the ethos has remained the same. The hotels ooze an effortless elegance, and offer a personalised – without being pretentious – experience. Delano Dubai's interiors draw inspiration from the sleek, subtle aesthetic of its Miami counterpart. The lobby is a breath of fresh air, and it feels like you've entered a spa, thanks to the white fabrics wafting, soft scents and floor-to-ceiling windows framing the Arabian Gulf. When I arrived, after a long flight from London, the staff were smiley but slow. While I waited for my room to be ready, the lobby was not designed to linger, and I was ushered to The Store with tiny tables and smart sockets. Delano Dubai Rooms and suites Delano Dubai is home to 251 rooms and suites. The options range from suites with a private pool to a five-bedroom penthouse. We checked into the Rising Light Guestroom Sea View with a Balcony. Spanning 40 square metres, it boasted a muted, minimalist aesthetic with soft furnishings, marble and wooden floors. The colour palette of beige, creams and whites was punctuated by bronzes, browns and gold. Delano Dubai features functional finesse, from the safe box hidden behind a bespoke wooden cupboard to the Dyson hairdryer in a leather box. The beautiful bathroom is thoughtfully laid out, with the toilet on one side of the corridor and the bathtub and shower on the other. The room also included a king-size bed, a small sofa, and a balcony with a serene sea view. Restaurants and bars Delano Dubai is home to a range of restaurants and bars. Breakfast is served at the all-day dining restaurant, Tutto Passa. The concept brings the vibes of the Amalfi Coast to the Arabian Gulf. The breakfast menu includes a range of egg to sweet dishes, from Scrambled Eggs and Smoked Salmon to French Toast. Plus, the buffet is brimming and beautiful. At Blue Door, Anatolian cuisine is served amidst waterfront views, while the reimagined Rose Bar is a luxurious spot with a vibrant social atmosphere echoing the legacy of the celebrated venue in Miami. The beach clubs showcase a laid-back luxury. Delano Pool and Beach is at the heart of the hotel, and many of the rooms overlook the pool. I wish I had more time to explore La Cantine Beach, which is a short walk or buggy ride away. The concept combines relaxation, wellness, and sport across its menus and facilities, and it includes a pickleball court, a volleyball court, children's activities, and an outdoor gym. Maison Revka Dubai feels like a Baroque painting come to life. The Slavic restaurant offers glamorous grandeur, soft shadows and a dose of drama. Rose Bar is fun and funky – visit the mirrored room for a swanky selfie. The venue has created an alluring atmosphere with sultry shades of red, red-hot curtains, sofas and chairs, and dim lighting. Blue Door is a Mediterranean marvel – make sure you sit outside, under the trees and order plates to share. Facilities Guests at Delano Dubai have access to the Banyan Tree Spa, which draws inspiration from Asian traditions. The facilities include a Jacuzzi and pool, and treatments range from facials to massages. The menu includes Chinese Traditions, Indonesian Traditions and Thai Traditions. The property also features a pristine private beach and enchanting gardens. The pool area, reminiscent of Roman baths, serves as a social nexus, with strategically placed loungers and umbrellas emphasising the idyllic setting. The Verdict Delano has been shaking up the hospitality scene in Las Vegas and Paris and looks set to do the same in Dubai. Taking over the site formerly occupied by Caesars Resort Dubai, the hotel has undergone a transformation to create a space that seamlessly merges the outdoors with the indoors. It's not often that slippers make a mark, but these were by far and away the best slippers we have ever had in a hotel. The sink-into-slippers made us feel like we were walking – and getting ready to sleep – on cloud nine. Delano Dubai: wake up to this wonder on Bluewater Island. GO: Visit for more information.
Emirates Woman
26-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
Your ultimate 2025 guide to all the luxe pool days in Dubai
After all the hustle and bustle, there's nothing like any of these relaxing pool days to unwind with friends, family, or even alone. Dubai's pool scene is the epitome of luxury, offering everything from sky-high infinity pools with breathtaking views to chic beach clubs with private cabanas and signature beverages. Whether you're looking for a serene escape, a lively party atmosphere, or a refined dining experience by the water, the city's poolside destinations cater to every mood. From indulgent day passes to fully redeemable sunbed experiences, Dubai's pool days promise relaxation, sophistication, and stunning settings, making them a must for both residents and visitors alike. Delano Dubai Escape to Bluewater Island for a luxurious pool and beach day at the newly opened Delano Dubai. Relax by the expansive pool, lounge on sunken furniture, or unwind on the private 250-metre beachfront with stunning Arabian Gulf views. The chic retreat blends Miami glamour with Dubai's coastal beauty, offering an exclusive Pool & Beach Day Pass, including access to signature Italian-inspired cuisine like fresh Burrata, Seafood Rigatoni, and indulgent desserts. Passes start at Dhs400 on weekdays and Dhs600 on weekends, with 50 percent redeemable on food and beverages. For more information visit High Society, The Lana, Dorchester High Society at The Lana, Dorchester Collection, offers an exclusive pool day experience on the 30th floor, available Monday to Friday until October 31. Priced at Dhs750 per person, the full amount is redeemable on a menu curated by Michelin-starred chef Jean Imbert, featuring dishes like Eggplant Miso, Lobster Salad, and Churros. With only four spots available each day, guests must book and pay online in advance via Seven Rooms, presenting their confirmation upon arrival. Open from 7am to 8pm, this elevated poolside retreat promises a luxurious escape. For more information visit Gitano Bringing Tulum's bohemian charm to Dubai, Gitano blends laid-back luxury with mezcal cocktails and effortless transitions from breezy afternoons to vibrant nights. The lounge on plush single sunbeds are priced at Dhs350 on weekdays, Dhs400 on weekends)or indulge in deluxe double sunbeds are priced at Dhs750 on weekdays and Dhs1,000 on weekend, all fully redeemable on food and drinks. With beach access open to all ages and a 21 plus pool scene from 11am to 7pm, Gitano promises a stylish escape where relaxation meets revelry. For more information visit Bâoili A blend of East Asian flavors, tropical aesthetics, and a buzzing nightlife scene, Bâoli Dubai is where relaxed daytime lounging meets high-energy evenings. The venue offers weekdays pool and beach access for Dhs500 (Dhs400 redeemable) and weekends for Dhs600 (Dhs500 redeemable), making it an all-day destination that transitions into one of J1 Beach's liveliest nightspots. For more information visit Cloud 22, Atlantis The Royal Perched on the 22nd floor of Atlantis The Royal, Cloud 22 offers a stunning infinity sky pool, 15 private cabanas, and an exclusive VVIP cabana with its own pool, all set to a vibrant DJ soundtrack. Guests can savor Mediterranean dishes, sip expertly crafted cocktails, and soak in the Insta-worthy views. Open daily from 10am to 8pm, entry starts at Dhs325 on weekdays and Dhs395 on weekends. For more information visit Sirene Beach by Gaia For a sophisticated seaside escape, Sirene Beach by Gaia at J1 Beach offers Aegean-inspired flavors, fresh Mediterranean seafood, and a chic yet welcoming atmosphere. Guests can lounge on beach beds at Dhs200) or pool beds at Dhs300), while those seeking exclusivity can book private cabanas for up to eight guests for Dhs5,000 and Dhs3,500 redeemable on weekdays, Dhs7,500/Dhs 5,000 redeemable on weekends). As the sun sets, the Hawazin live band sets the mood with organic electronic beats, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a sunset aperitivo. For more information visit Drift Beach Located at the regal One&Only Royal Mirage, this picturesque venue offers an array of luxury cabanas to make you feel like a VIP on the venue which is set on a kilometre of private beach. The entrance fee starts at Dhs200 on weekdays and Dhs250 on weekends, as you relish on delicious dishes and indulge in an array of exquisite drinks from the Provençal restaurant. For more information visit Bvlgari Yacht Club Being the first every yacht club with the charm of a Mediterranean atmosphere, this exclusive destination overlooks a 46-boat harbour where guests can enjoy white loungers and relaxing waters for Dhs750 for two people on weekdays and Dhs1,500, half of which is redeemable on F&B, on weekends for a cabana for up to three guests. For more information visit Nobu by the Beach, Atlantis The Royal Nobu by the Beach at Atlantis The Royal in Dubai offers a luxurious pool and beach club experience, blending Nobu's signature Japanese-Peruvian flavors with a refined beachside touch. Guests can relax in private cabanas, enjoy signature cocktails, and indulge in inventive bites and sharing platters. Open daily from 10am to 7pm, entry starts at Dhs295 on weekdays and Dhs395 on weekends and public holidays. For more information visit AURA Skypool The world's highest 360-degree infinity pool is exactly where you need to be for a pool day with a view. With panoramic views of Dubai's skyline, visitors can witness the skyline from an angle that aesthetically pleases them. Designed with custom-made sunbeds and lounges, this venue is the ideal spot to unwind, with an eclectic atmosphere complemented by the Lounge & Bar and tunes to uplift the atmosphere all day long. There's half-day and full day sessions starting from AED200, with prices dependent on which view and row you book. Book via Address Beach Resort This record-breaking pool in Dubai received an award for being the highest infinity pool in the world. Located 294 metres up from the hotel, guests can witness splendid views of Dubai's skyline while relishing a menu of delectable Asian-inspired dishes from ZETA Seventy Seven. From picturesque views to fully equipped cabanas, this place is definitely a must-visit. Pool day rates start from Dhs577 minimum spend. Book via – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @zozoewitherspoon
