#1Jumeirah Beach, Dubai
1. Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
From $1,500+ a night, checked April 2026
The Burj Al Arab is the building that redefined the vocabulary of luxury hospitality. Opened in 1999 on its own artificial island off Jumeirah Beach, the 321-metre sail-shaped tower became the most photographed hotel structure in the world within years of its completion, an achievement in architectural marketing that has never been replicated. But the Burj Al Arab is not merely a landmark: the experience of staying here, in the all-suite interior where the smallest category gives you a two-storey duplex with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the Arabian Gulf, is as extraordinary in practice as the building is in silhouette. The 24-hour dedicated butler assigned to each suite is not a concierge by another name, this is someone trained to anticipate, who will have your room temperature, your preferred Champagne and your breakfast order memorised by the end of day one. The Gold on 27 restaurant, set at the top of the tower with panoramic Gulf views, is a genuinely accomplished dining destination. The Rolls-Royce fleet at the entrance is available to guests at no additional charge, which is appropriate, given that arriving by any other means at the Burj Al Arab would feel like a missed opportunity.
Key Facts
- Suites: 202 duplex suites only
- Height: 321 metres, 56 floors
- Transfer: Rolls-Royce from DXB airport
- Butler: 24h dedicated butler per suite
- Dining: Gold on 27 + Al Iwan + 8 venues
- Island: Private artificial island
- 202 rooms and suites
- Best months: November to April
Best for: Icon status
Watch out: One honest note: some suite categories show their age relative to newer Dubai luxury properties.
