Dukes Dubai

W H AT ’ S ITLIKE?

A branch of the Dukes hotel in London, well-known for its martini bar, the new Dukes Dubai opened in April. The property features classic décor similar to its British sister, although glitzy flourishes such as the lobby’s 1,610-piece Swarovski crystal chandelier do a good job of reminding you that you’re in Dubai. In contrast to Dukes’ cosy, dimly lit lobby in London, the entry hall here is high and spacious, flanked by shelves of weathered novels and gilt ornaments.

FACILITIES

The hotel has 279 rooms, including 64 suites. An additional 287 studio and one-bedroom residences are also on offer for extended-stay guests. There are 12 room categories ranging from entrylevel Dukes rooms, to lavish, 203 sqm Ambassador suites. All come with 48-inch Samsung TVs, a workdesk and views of Dubai Marina, the Palm Jumeirah or the city.

The hotel has three restaurants, a cigar lounge, a champagne and tea lounge and, of course, a branch of the brand’s iconic Dukes bar. GBR is the hotel’s all-day dining room on the ground floor. North Indian restaurant Khyber is an outpost of the awardwinning Mumbai flagship, while West 14th is a Manhattan-style steakhouse next to the outdoor pool. There’s also an 18-metre indoor pool and gym on the 14th floor, plus a 200-metre private beach.

VERDICT

A classy option that stands out among Dubai’s flashier five-star segment for its quintessential Britishness and excellent service. Marisa Cannon