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Dubai's most popular hotels 2025, according to travel experts
Dubai's most popular hotels 2025, according to travel experts

Time Out Dubai

time3 days ago

  • Time Out Dubai

Dubai's most popular hotels 2025, according to travel experts

About to book your next Dubai staycay? When it comes to hotels in Dubai, you're pretty spoilt for choice, whether you want a golden sandy spot to doze in a cabana, or a sky-high city suite next to the Burj Khalifa. To make your decision easier, Time Out Dubai asked Expedia where the crowds are heading with their suitcases right now. Revealing the list of Dubai's current hotspots, the digital travel agency shared that a selection of hotels were proving more popular than others, recording a 50 per cent search increase in the past year. So if you're looking for a staycation or a place to stay for a little longer, here are the 10 most popular hotels in Dubai right now, according to Expedia. The most popular hotels in Dubai Shangri-La Dubai Where: DIFC What to expect: The slick luxury hotel boasts Burj Khalifa and sea views, so you've got the best of both worlds. With 302 rooms and 126 apartments, you can enjoy the hotel's seven restaurants and bars, or chill out in the Chi Spa. DIFC, (04 343 888). Hotel Avalon Dubai Jumeirah Village Circle Where: Jumeirah Village Circle What to expect: Nestled into JVC, the Hotel Avalon is a little further out from the city's main attractions, but is packed with plush rooms, a rooftop pool and exclusive access to a beach club on Palm Jumeirah. JVC, (04 563 1555). Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Dubai Where: Palm Jumeirah What to expect: Inspired by Turkish palaces, expect grand suites, lagoons, a luxe spa and a dreamy outdoor pool looking out from the Palm Jumeirah beachfront. Want to pamper? Don't miss a hammam treatment in the Ottoman Spa. Palm Jumeirah, (04 453 0000). Atlantis the Palm (Credit: Canva) Where: Palm Jumeirah What to expect: An iconic Dubai hotel, you'll spot it from miles away sitting at the top of Palm Jumeirah, packed with some of the best restaurants in the city, its own beach club and the largest waterpark in the world. Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 2626). Sky Bay Dubai Business Bay (Credit: Canva) Where: Business Bay What to expect: Sitting just back from the Dubai Canal, you can enjoy a stylish suite or spend your days chilling on the rooftop pool. When you're not seeing the sights, you can make the most of the free access to the Soluna restaurants and beach club on Palm Jumeirah too. Business Bay, (04 545 2100). One & Only One Za'abeel One of the hotel rooms Credit: One&Only One Za'abeel Where: Za'abeel 1 What to expect: Not only is this place in one of the coolest buildings in Dubai, the plush rooms and apartments give you access to Tapasake, the stunning infinity pool sitting on top of the longest cantilever bridge in the world (that looks straight onto the Burj Khalifa). Za'abeel 1, (04 666 1777). JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai Where: Business Bay What to expect: Soaring above Sheikh Zayed Road, this hotel is instantly recognisable as one of the tallest in the world, so you'll be able to spot the two iconic towers from a mile off. As well as hosting one of the highest spas in the world, the hotel has some sizzling restaurants you absolutely have to check out during your stay. Business Bay, (04 414 0000). Vida Dubai Mall Where: Downtown Dubai What to expect: If you're here just to shop at Dubai Mall, then this is the hotel for you. With direct access to the stores, a rooftop pool and Burj Khalifa views, you're in for a treat. Downtown Dubai, (04 549 8888). The First Collection Dubai Waterfront Where: Business Bay What to expect: A modern tower overlooking Dubai Canal, this Business Bay spot has a gorgeous rooftop pool, access to a Palm Jumeirah beach club and a popular bakery downstairs for your morning pastries. Business Bay, (04 542 6666). FIVE LUXE Where: Jumeirah Beach Residence What to expect: Opening in 2024, this recent addition to the JBR beachfront is currently home to the best beach club in the city, a range of restaurants and suites that even come with their own private swimming pool. JBR, (04 275 9999). Staying in Dubai? Your ultimate guide to all the restaurants at Atlantis The Palm Where to eat next at the iconic Dubai hotel 14 cool things you can do in Dubai for 10 Dirhams (or less) Low on dirhams? No problem 6 free places to catch the sunset in Dubai Views on point

A food hall is coming to the The Link at One&Only One Za'abeel
A food hall is coming to the The Link at One&Only One Za'abeel

What's On

time08-05-2025

  • Entertainment
  • What's On

A food hall is coming to the The Link at One&Only One Za'abeel

Culinara Social Dining is the newest food hall addition to The Link… A food hall will soon open at One&Only One Za'abeel – Culinara Social Dining is the latest addition to The Link's foodie offerings, and an interesting departure from the ethos of the venue so far. 3 of 12 The city has seen a number of popular celebrity chefs from around the world set up their Dubai outposts at what was one of the most hotly-anticipated dining destinations of last year. However, this new set of openings seems to be championing a more regional pool of culinary talent, with 12 curated, homegrown concepts filling the space. Among the list, we have, The Dish by Chef Sperxos, a modern taste of Greece, offering dishes like deconstructed lamb loin souvlaki and red-prawns orzo saganaki. Regional powerhouse Chef Reif Othman of Reif Kushiyaki and Hoe Lee Kow will be opening two concepts – SIO Ramen House, serving up slow simmered broths and inventive noodle dishes – and KONA Pizza House – a mish-mash of Japanese and Korean ingredients, put together with Italian tradition. Restauranteurs Javier de la Flor and Roberto Segura, who helms two hit food hall concepts and two cafe concepts in Dubai, are bringing Crudo Raw Tapas Bar, offering crudo and tapas with locally sourced ingredients. Seiran is all about Persian food, with a focus on charcoal-grilled meats, kebabs, stews and saffron rice, brought to you by veteran restaurateur Masoud Shafie. At Joumana's Table, brothers Khaled and Maleck Habib are serving food inspired by the memories of their childhood and their mother's treasured recipes, passed down through generations. Think slow-cooked stews, expertly chargrilled meats, and golden mezze. Nette is already a Dubai favourite, and is bringing a touch of wellness with a French-Japanese menu rooted in susbtainability. The Coffee Lab, led by founder Osama Belshalat, is all about coffee and offers expertly roasted speciality coffee, pastries and signature drinks like Spanish cortado and coconut latte. HighBall is the stylish central bar from local hospitality team Tactile Food Group. The innovative menu features house-made infusions, low-ABV selections, and drink collaborations with fellow concepts at The Link. A little different from the dining concepts, there is ITALTOUCH, a gourmet grocery store by Massimo Vidoni, where guests can shop a range of Italian truffles, artisanal oils, sauces, cheeses, and sustainable caviar, while enjoying indulgent in-store tastings, such as caviar with blinis and crème fraîche. African + Eastern will also have a store, offering fine wines and premium spirits. Besides the resident concepts, the venue is also offering a calendar of events with themed nights and guest chef appearances. More concepts are yet to be announced, so stay tuned for that. The hall itself is set to open this May, 2025. @culinaradubai Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in

Dubai Business Associates Celebrates 10 Years of Developing Future Leaders - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai Business Associates Celebrates 10 Years of Developing Future Leaders - Middle East Business News and Information

Mid East Info

time24-04-2025

  • Business
  • Mid East Info

Dubai Business Associates Celebrates 10 Years of Developing Future Leaders - Middle East Business News and Information

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid meets with alumni of Dubai Business Associates programme Dubai's world leading graduate talent programme with just a 0.5% acceptance rate, celebrates its 10th year 278 Associates from 44 different countries have successfully completed the future global leader's programme Associates have delivered 84 strategic projects for partner organisations, saving $27M in consulting fees alone Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the world-leading graduate talent programme, Dubai Business Associates (DBA), this week celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of developing future global leaders and global ambassadors for Dubai. As part of the celebrations, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed met with alumni of the programme and said that 'investing in human capital is essential to building a creative, innovation-driven economy, with the goal of empowering future entrepreneurs to transform ideas into impactful projects that address future challenges and benefit society.' Sheikh Mohammed expressed his delight in meeting graduates of the programme hailing from the UAE and around the world, encouraging them to harness the knowledge and entrepreneurial skills they acquired to shape a future built on knowledge, driven by innovation, and dedicated to improving quality of life. The anniversary was commemorated with a landmark event at the iconic One&Only One Za'abeel, attended by members of the UAE and Dubai leadership, senior government officials, diplomats, C-suite executives, strategic partners, and more than 100 DBA alumni from around the world. Among the distinguished guests was His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, who took to the stage to present Partner Appreciation Awards to a selection of key Dubai organisations in recognition of their outstanding contributions and continued support of the DBA programme over the past ten years. Awards were presented to Learning Partners: PwC Academy, Capadev, and Bon Education; and Strategic Partners: Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), dnata, and Emirates—for their continued commitment to developing young global talent. Director of Dubai Business Associates, Rami Tawfiq, said: 'Celebrating DBA's 10-year anniversary is a chance to reflect on the impact we've made and look ahead to an even more ambitious future. We aim to expand our reach to 200 markets, welcome new partners, and continue developing the next generation of global leaders with our innovative and practical approach to professional development.' Renowned as one of the world's most competitive business and education programmes, DBA receives over 5,500 applications annually from both international and UAE-based graduates. The programme is managed by Falcon and Associates, a Dubai-based entity specialising in marketing, communications, events and innovation, which was established in 2009. The nine-month course blends academic learning with business placements, industry networking, coaching, and cultural immersion. Its tenth edition welcomed 36 participants from 22 countries, including nine Emiratis, for a nine-month training programme. Associates work on real-world consulting projects with leading Dubai-based organisations including Emirates, DIFC, dnata, DP World, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Since its inception in 2014, the programme has attracted 278 associates from 44 countries, including 56 UAE nationals. Furthermore, over 140 work placements have been completed, in partnership with over 30 of Dubai's leading companies. Added to that, 84 consulting projects with a saving of over $27 million in consultancy fees alone, have been delivered, providing myriad benefits for Dubai's wider business ecosystem. In addition, over 30% of applicants come from QS Top 10 global universities. DBA's academic and professional excellence is ensured by leading learning partners including PwC's Academy, Capadev, and Bon Education, who support the curriculum with world-class training and development to prepare Associates for their professional careers. Voices of Impact During the event, CNN anchor Becky Anderson hosted an on-stage discussion with five DBA alumni about the experiences and opportunities this exclusive programme has given them. Speakers included: Majed Bin Thaneya, Youth Leadership Council Member & Talent Partner, Emirates (UAE) Raymond Zhu, CEO, Dhow Holding (China) Jodi Cullity, Founder, Eleveno (USA) Ksenia Trubacheva, Business Analyst, McKinsey (Russia) Mahrukh Shahid, Managing Partner, Globesight (Pakistan) Tech entrepreneur Raymond Zhu, who launched MENA's first live shopping platform, Wing Go, credited his DBA placements at the Prime Minister's Office and Dubai Technology Entrepreneurship Centre with providing the skills, experience, and network to succeed. The DBA programme is unique in its approach to developing future global business leaders and reflects Dubai's position as a hub for talent, innovation, and enterprise,' said Zhu. 'As a graduate, the opportunity to work on real-world projects with top organisations provided the perfect foundation for my career.' Jodi Cullity, who worked as a strategy consultant for Expo 2020 Dubai, shared how her DBA journey led to working with First Lady Jill Biden at the White House and launching ELEVENO Pickleball. With a unique blend of cultural immersion, strategic training, and real-world experience, DBA continues to serve as a global launchpad for exceptional talent, while creating Dubai ambassadors around the world. As Dubai cements its position as a leading hub for innovation, opportunity, and enterprise, Dubai Business Associates remains committed to developing the next generation of future global leaders—equipped with the mindset, skills, and ambition to create lasting impact. Interview Profile: Jodi Cullity (US) From: Boston, Massachusetts Education: Shanghai University, International Business and Chinese, 2025 University of Maryland, 2013 – 2016 Experience since DBA Founder and CEO, ELEVENO Pickleball, October 2022 – present Advance Associate, The White House, March 2016 – present Protocol Manager, USA Expo 2020, June 2021 – June 2022 Executive Director, Libreum Research Institute, October 2019 – September 2021 Strategy Consultant, Expo 2020 Dubai, October 2018 – July 2019 Consultant, PwC's Academy Middle East, September 2018 – June 2019 Strategy Consultant, Dubai Business Associates, September 2018 – July 2019 Quote: 'DBA provided an optimal balance of hands-on, professional business experience with innovative learning modules that gave me the foundation to succeed in my professional career. I couldn't recommend it enough to aspiring global graduates.' 'And Dubai really is the perfect environment to undertake such a programme. It's a dynamic and forward-thinking city, with unrivalled networking opportunities with like-minded, ambitious individuals.' Interview profile: Leya Ali (UK) From: London, England Education: University of Cambridge, Master of Philosophy, Planning, Growth & Regeneration Goldsmiths, University of London, Undergraduate Economics Experience since DBA: Business Development (M&A), dnata, Dubai Quote: 'The overall DBA experience has not just been about the hard and soft skills you learn in relation to all things 'professional' and 'work'. We were a cohort consisting of almost 20 nationalities, with entirely varied backgrounds and past experiences where there was so much openness about learning each other's culture, religion and stories.' 'DBA really is the place for learning and if you have the quench to study and work really hard in order to grow your skills, experience and business acumen during a small timescale, DBA is for you.' Interview profile: Raymond Zhu From: China Education: Tsinghua University, Research Assistant, Machine Learning Zi'an Jiaotong University, Bachelor of Science (Engineering), Software Engineering Experience since DBA: Founder & CEO Dhow Hlding, Founder & CEO, ZENO, Co-Founder, Zehn Technologies Group, CTO, TRADE X Co-Founder, Machine Colony Emirates Airline, Data Scientist Quote: 'Dubai Business Associates is truly a unique programme for entrepreneurs. I was fortune enough to work on major consulting projects including the largest tech incubator in the Middle East, and on the initial model of the first Global Blockchain Council at the Prime Minister's Office.' 'I couldn't recommend the course highly enough. DBA and its key learning and professional partners continue to remain at the cutting edge of graduate education, which is greatly enhanced by its cultural components.' About the Dubai Business Associates programme: Run under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Business Associate programme offers outstanding and ambitious graduates from all around the world an unrivalled opportunity to study and work in Dubai, with a dynamic and multicultural hub for global commerce, to develop as future global leaders. Through a practical, project-based learning approach, Dubai Business Associates facilitates the transition from talented young graduates to future global leaders with highly sought-after skills, thereby serving as a bridge between university and the world of work.

UAE: The most coveted luxury homes in DUbai, Abu Dhabi in 2025
UAE: The most coveted luxury homes in DUbai, Abu Dhabi in 2025

Khaleej Times

time18-04-2025

  • Business
  • Khaleej Times

UAE: The most coveted luxury homes in DUbai, Abu Dhabi in 2025

The UAE has become one of the world's most sought-after luxury property destinations for the world's millionaires‭. ‬ KT LUXE ‭ ‬sat down with specialist investor Idan Doodman to get insights on what's catching the attention of the rich and famous‭, ‬and his tips on where those who are in the know are buying next‭.‬ 'Most of these are being bought by savvy investors‭, ‬who will in a few years flip them‭,‬'‭ ‬said Doodman‭, ‬who works independently with high-net-worth investors both from inside and outside the UAE‭. ‬'There are some amazing developments coming up that are already getting a lot of attention‭, ‬things we know will have a high return on investment‭ (‬ROI‭).‬ 'In the global property market‭, ‬Dubai has one of the highest ROIs‭. ‬So‭, ‬it continues to be a destination for investment for many nationalities who have money to invest‭.‬' Doodman says that the 2025‭ ‬market prioritises exclusive communities‭, ‬personalised‭, ‬bespoke luxury‭, ‬and networking-friendly environments over ostentatious wealth‭.‬ 'Prime addresses now incorporate a concept known to designers as‭ ‬'collision spaces'‭, ‬carefully curated areas fostering organic connections among business leaders‭, ‬creatives‭, ‬and investors‭,‬'‭ ‬Doodman explained‭.‬ 'But ultimately‭, ‬Dubai remains a magnet for entrepreneurial wealth‭, ‬while Abu Dhabi appeals to cultural elites seeking prestige and artistic integration into areas such as Saadiyat Island‭, ‬which has become a huge draw as a cultural centre‭,‬'‭ ‬he added‭.‬ Existing‭ ‬developments One&Only One Za'abeel‭ ‬Private Homes‭ ‬(‬Dh15-60m‭) ‬ This development was officially launched as a ready-to-move-in property in February 2024‭. ‬The location‭ (‬near DIFC‭) ‬and developer‭ ‬are premium‭, ‬and the highlight is the Japanese architectural firm Nikken Sekkei‭, ‬which has raised design to another level‭. ‬This‭ ‬combined use of commercial and residential space is unique‭. ‬The building has stunning leisure facilities‭, ‬and the prices can go‭ ‬up to as much as Dh60‭ ‬million for the penthouse‭. ‬Another interesting titbit about these buildings is‭ ‬—‭ ‬landlords and investors had the opportunity to buy off plan and those who chose to earned about 100‭ ‬per cent or even more ROI‭ ‬on it‭. ‬For someone buying off plan four years ago‭, ‬the ROI is one of the highest in Dubai‭, ‬close to Atlantis The Royal Residences‭, ‬making it a very sought-after address‭. ‬The development boasts 94‭ ‬homes‭, ‬private elevators‭, ‬4.5m ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows‭. ‬Residents enjoy the One&Only resort amenities‭, ‬including The Link‭, ‬a sky-high Michelin-starred dining and infinity‭ ‬ pool experience‭.‬ Off-plan‭ ‬developments‭ ‬ Six Senses Residences‭ ‬ Dubai Marina‭ ‬ ‭(‬Dh8-40m‭ |‬Q4‭ ‬2028‭)‬ Reaching 122‭ ‬floors‭, ‬Six Senses Residences Dubai Marina takes the crown as the world's tallest residential-only tower‭. ‬The concept centres on wellness‭. ‬It's a luxury wellness sanctuary blending biophilic design‭, ‬air purification‭, ‬and holistic health programmes‭. ‬Designed for high-net‭-‬worth individuals and wellness entrepreneurs‭, ‬it offers state-of-the-art amenities‭, ‬spa retreats‭, ‬and curated health experiences‭, ‬redefining sustainable luxury living‭. ‬Facilities such as a rooftop pool and spa make daily life feel like a luxe getaway‭. ‬People are already talking about a 100‭ ‬per cent ROI‭.‬ Jumeirah The Rings‭ ‬ ‭(‬Dh59-69m‭ |‬Q4‭ ‬2025‭)‬ With circular towers that have 180-degree sea views‭, ‬sky gardens‭, ‬and a 360-degree rooftop infinity pool‭, ‬this project is a magnet for design enthusiasts and architectural visionaries‭. ‬It will employ a unique building style in Jumeirah 1‭, ‬and it will stand out‭. ‬The location is close to the beach with views of the‭ ‬park‭, ‬and sea‭. ‬Some balconies have pools‭. ‬Designed by world-renowned Foster‭ + ‬Partners‭, ‬the common areas have floor-to-ceiling‭ ‬glass that showcase expansive views‭. ‬The prices are high even for Dubai‭, ‬with style and design being a huge part of the appeal here in one of the city's most upmarket addresses‭. ‬Six-bedroom duplexes are now selling for Dh70‭ ‬million‭, ‬each with their own pool‭. ‬It's like something out of a movie set for the ultra-rich‭.‬ Ellington Villa Collection‭ ‬ ‭(‬Dh25-50m‭ |‬Q1‭ ‬2027‭)‬ Canadian brand Ellington has become one of the country's top five developers‭. ‬The design of its projects is different from other developers‭, ‬more smooth‭, ‬clean‭. ‬It's obviously slick‭, ‬well designed‭, ‬and with specific colour schemes‭. ‬The firm that at first concentrates on residential buildings‭ ‬is now launching a villa project‭. ‬These bespoke villas focus on artisanal craftsmanship and circadian lighting‭, ‬and the development is attracting creative professionals and luxury connoisseurs‭. ‬The homes range between 6,000‭ ‬square feet and 8,000‭ ‬square feet‭, ‬with four to six bedrooms‭. ‬One thing people like with this development is that you need to bring very little along as its units are all equipped with electrical appliances in the kitchen‭. ‬Located near Tilal Al Ghaf‭, ‬it will be a fast-growing part of the city‭. ‬ The Oasis by Emaar‭, ‬Lagoon Views‭ ‬ ‭(‬Dh9.7-30m‭ |‬Q2‭ ‬2029‭)‬ Anyone who visits Dubai knows Emaar can see how it has expanded over the years‭. ‬Emaar is known for its great facilities and high‭ ‬quality‭. ‬This innovative waterfront community with artificial lagoons‭, ‬outdoor kitchens‭, ‬and temperature-controlled lounges is‭ ‬designed for high-profile investors who value sustainability and networking‭. ‬Emaar was the first to build these kinds of communities and the company does it the best‭. ‬This oasis is going to be marketed as the most premium gated community in the firm's portfolio‭. ‬The location is near Tilal Al Ghaf‭. ‬Wealthy families will flock here‭, ‬attracted to the custom-built facilities and‭ ‬design‭. ‬Foreign investors will love this‭. ‬It's close to Dubai South‭, ‬which is becoming a hub for business and is situated next to the upcoming airport‭. ‬The big lagoons‭ ‬will‭ ‬also set this space apart‭. ‬You can plan activities there‭, ‬such as picnics on the sand banks‭. ‬It creates the feeling of being close to nature‭, ‬which is what takes it to another level and offers a unique lifestyle opportunity‭.‬ Murjan Al Saadiyat‭, ‬ Abu Dhabi‭ ‬ ‭(‬Dh20-40m‭ |‬June 2025‭)‬ These beachfront villas on Saadiyat Island blend cultural sophistication with sustainability‭. ‬Close to Louvre Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim‭, ‬the area is attracting art collectors and cultural leaders‭. ‬Here‭, ‬you can feel nature‭, ‬and you feel that it's different from anything else in the Emirates‭, ‬like an urban haven‭. ‬The developers have created a high-end group of villas within a gated community‭. ‬It's safe and secure and has ocean views and white sands‭, ‬a real privilege of being in that area‭. ‬Though it's not close to the centre of the city‭, ‬it gives a feeling of resort living‭. ‬The prices can go up to Dh35-40‭ ‬million‭, ‬high if you're talking about the Abu Dhabi market‭, ‬which is considered to be more economical than Dubai's realty‭.‬ Tilal Al Ghaf Mansions‭ ‬ ‭(‬Dh20-50m‭ | ‬Q2‭ ‬2025‭)‬ This is a gated community inside a gated community‭, ‬so residents have all the privilege of this high luxury bubble on the Tilal‭ ‬Al Ghaf lagoon‭. ‬Offering exclusive inland luxury with private beach access‭, ‬homes have features including 7m ceilings‭, ‬and biometric security‭. ‬It is a top choice for business leaders seeking personalised architectural design by the best architects‭. ‬From five bedrooms to seven and with size from 10,000‭ ‬square feet to 17,000‭ ‬square feet‭, ‬it will be aimed at the wealthy family market‭. ‬These are massive properties and most of the villas have been sold‭, ‬but there are a lot more that will be available this year‭.‬ ‭ * ‬Note‭: ‬prices and dates are correct as of date of publication but are subject to change‭.‬

Hotel Review: One&Only One Za'abeel Resort, Dubai
Hotel Review: One&Only One Za'abeel Resort, Dubai

Forbes

time04-04-2025

  • Forbes

Hotel Review: One&Only One Za'abeel Resort, Dubai

A vertical resort in a vertical skyscraper: One&Only One Za'abeel It's a name with a lot of nerve: One&Only—as if all other hotels are simply beside the point. Given that it's been years since I sampled the brand, I decided to put that boastful name to the test by checking into the property's newest Dubai opening, One&Only One Za'abeel. Dubbing itself an urban, vertical resort, the 178-room and 51-suite hotel certainly makes quite the entrance to the Dubai skyline—no easy feat, considering the grandiosity that is the Dubai skyline. Behold 'The Link': billed as a 'boulevard in the sky,' the world's longest cantilever, an 8500-ton steel structure hanging as if by magic between the two skyscrapers of One Za'abeel. Picture a structure taller than Seattle's Space Needle perched sideways in the clouds—a horizontal skyscraper: only in Dubai. Inside it is a food hall like you've never seen before, with eight open kitchens and more options than anyone knows what to do with. Many worlds in one: Indonesia-in-Dubai at Andaliman The architecture makes for quite the scene—and to match it, a stay at One&Only One Za'abeel is quite the experience. Here's why. Skyline suite SLEEP Talk about a palace in the sky: my plush room on the 50th floor gave wraparound views for days, with a shower the size of a house and a tub that had me feeling as if I were floating above the futuristic horizon. The boon is in the details: Each night I found a designer silk eye mask and herbal pillow spray left beside my bed; the custom-made made lotion and hand wash by Montroi smelled divine—a signature scent called Al Sama that saturated the property. Just being in my suite was an experience of serenity and luxury. Indonesian delights at Andaliman EAT The 'vertical resort' concept translates to stepping off many elevators into myriad worlds, and the culinary experience is at the heart of it all. On the spectacular rooftop pool deck—more on this later—you land in Japan: Tapesake gives legendary Nobu a run for its money with delights like Wagyu Gyoza, braised short ribs with citrus garlic oil and, my favorite, a seafood stone pot in which fish, prawns and calamari cooked before my eyes. The Garden floor—underneath The Link, an imposing sight from down below—is Southeast Asia, with the superb Andaliman serving Indonesian cuisine: Rengginang tuna & crab with rice crackers; Udang grilled prawns with pickled pineapple; Es Tung-Tung coconut and black rice ice cream with caramel popcorn. Find France on the 27th floor at La Dame de Pic, helmed by Chef Anne-Sophie Pic. I ordered a cocktail made with Campari, sweet vermouth and lavender, then savored the scallops with celeriac sake and coconut foam; for desert, the 'cheese creation' was ice cream-flavored cheese—or was it the other way around? I welcomed the tasty whimsy. Finally, although the StreetXO is primarily meant to transport you to Spain—it's the creation of Spanish chef Dabiz Muñoz, from Madrid StreetXO—I knew I was in for more than that when I walked through the cavernous, graffiti-covered entrance and spotted waiters wearing uniforms inspired by straightjackets. The mashup of cuisines here certainly borders on madness—but it's a delectable madness: salmon Mediterranean aguachile, Thai cold soba sashimi, Nigiri croquetas—yes, that's sushi-style fish served on Spanish croquetas instead of rice—and the best menu name of all: 'lobster awakens on the Goa coast,' which involves curry, lobster, and lots of fun. A mirage? Views from the pool deck atop The Link SWIM Back to that spectacular pool deck: Dubai loves a superlative, and One&Only One Za'abeel is home to the UAE's longest infinity pool, on the top deck of The Link. It's a respite in the sky with the ultimate Dubai view, which I took in while sipping a 'Japanese Mary,' made with clarified tomato sauce and Togarashi. For contrast, down below is the Garden Pool, which beckons with a whole other vibe: Palm trees, dark wood and rose-tinted, Batik-style cushions evoke the Asian tropics. Longevity Hub by Clinique la Prairie BE WELL Don't call it a spa—it's a wellness clinic. To be precise, the world's first (there's that Dubai superlative again!) Longevity Hub by Clinique la Prairie, featuring 29 treatment rooms for wellbeing and clinical therapies. I booked a session with a longevity coach and therapist, the obscenely attractive and very knowledgable Alejandro, who plugged me into various high-tech machines that read everything from my body fat to the metals in my body, producing a full assessment of my 'longevity index,' which—phew!—was pretty strong. Then I had a divine 60-minute massage that, without a doubt, increased said longevity index astronomically—as did my entire brief stay at One&Only One Za'abeel.

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