What it is

An over-the-top Ottoman-style palace.

What it isn't

Subtle; no detail is left unadorned.

What we think

It’s difficult to do anything that truly wows when you’re on a man-made, palm-tree shaped island. Even with the bar set ozone layer-high, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray consistently receives compliments that would make any hotelier blush; “absolutely perfect” and “spectacular” are bandied about deservedly. It’s a movie-set sprung to life, you’ll find hand-painted frescoes and intricate carvings in all 443 rooms—including in the private marble baths—and a plot-thickening, near-bottomless activities list (windsurfing! Indian cooking classes! A 59-meter infinity pool! a private movie theater! Pétanque!). To top it off, the ten restaurants ensure you’ll never have to leave the property; because, well, why would you?

You're here because

In a more-is-better destination, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is the most.

The Moment

Fountains gurgle in the Arabian Nights-esque Turkish Hammam, a relaxing soundtrack as you dash from the spa’s snow room to it’s Thallasotherapy swimming pool.

Restaurants & Bars

Al Nafoora - Lebanese

Imperium - International French Brasserie

Amala - Northern Indian cuisine

Rib room - Steak house

Lalezar - Turkish

Plaj - Pool restaurant

Voda Bar, in house bar and lounge

Music Hall, dinner dance concept bar and lounge

Sultans Lounge

Lobby Lounge

Location

A 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport.