Taj Dubai: A lesson in warm welcomes

Some connections bring back memories of 20 years ago like it was yesterday. Taj Dubai opened its doors last week, bringing the legendary luxury brand to Dubai. It took me back in time to when I first stepped into the grand lobby of Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai. It was my first day at work and I tried to walk as elegantly as I could in my silk sari. Slowly, I graduated from the 12 safety pins that held my sari together down to an impressive two. More than just sari draping, I attribute much of my grounding in hospitality to Taj Hotels. The hotel dates back to 1903. Jamshedji Tata built this glorious building overlooking the Arabian Sea and the historic Gateway of India. My heart would swell with pride when I walked down its marbled corridors and grand staircase in the Palace Wing. The group has built itself a reputation of excellence and impeccable service, and everyone who has worked in Taj takes a piece of this with them. Even today, when one speaks of the Taj, I feel a sense of oneness and warmth. From one hotel, the group has blossomed to include 93 within India and 16 international properties. Naturally, I was curious and excited to see if Taj Dubai would live up its giant reputation. So when Shamira Mitha founder, Verve PR, invited me for the grand opening, I could not refuse.

From outside it looks like a sleek glass building, but it’s when you enter you are transported into a space of world-class luxury. My friend and former Taj employee Delna Anand walked me through the plush hotel.

“What I love is how this sleek contemporary hotel has brought in generous touches of rich Indianness which are seen all through. More than 3,000 paintings have been specially commissioned for this hotel”, Anand told me as I appreciated the Mughal-inspired art in the corridors. I took a quick peek into the English-style pub The Eloquent Elephant and the signature Indian restaurant Bombay Brasserie before proceeding to the party venue — the pool deck lounge with a stunning view of the Burj Khalifa.

I said my hellos to the who’s who of Dubai society and spent a lovely evening with delightful canapes, beverages and warm hospitality.

“From one hotel, the group has blossomed to include 93 within India and 16 international properties.”