So who said dazzling Dubai was pricey?
DUBAI is known for world records and over-the-top opulence. But even in the shadow of the world’s tallest building, there’s an authentic city ready and waiting to be explored.
Atmospheric Dubai Creek, with its ‘abra’ boat rides, bustling souks and historic vibes, is where the glamorous desert playground’s story first began.
This magical neighbourhood is the setting for a new kind of hotel perfect for global nomads who want more from their travels than just ticking off a bucket list.
Zabeel House MINI by Jumeirah, described as offering ‘maximum attitude, minimal frills’, opened last month – a new, casual and playful style of hotel from the Jumeirah Group, creators of the ultra-luxurious Burj Al Arab, Madinat Jumeirah and Jumeirah Beach. ‘A feet-up, hair-down, sleep-in or step-out experience’, this great-looking hotel is designed for those who love to explore, discover and share. It’s the first of a new collection springing up in neighbourhoods slightly off the tourist trail, with a future one slated for London’s Shoreditch.
And though it comes from one of the world’s most award-winning hotel operators, what may surprise you is the cost of a night’s stay, at about £68 per night.
Pocket-friendly Zabeel House MINI by Jumeirah sits in the heart of the Al Seef district, a culturally vibrant neighbourhood that hugs Dubai Creek’s stately shoreline.
It’s where old meets new, blending modern and imaginative architecture with charming heritage. Eat shakshuka and sip a flat white while watching dhows stock up with goods bound for Iran, India and North Africa.
But it’s not just the location that should put this hotel on your radar. Expect design-led spaces and welcoming yet unobtrusive staff. Stripping back pricey nonessentials such as valet parking and desk check-in queues (there’s self-check-in with staff at hand, and an underground car park), it’s the basics done brilliantly.
And it all comes with a touch of the instinctive hospitality that’s second-nature when you have created the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.
Everything about Zabeel House MINI by Jumeirah encourages exploration. The 150 fresh and colourful rooms (each with a Smeg fridge and Nespresso machine) come with a poparty city map on the ceiling, placed so you can plan your adventures while lying in bed.
Grab a bike (at no cost) and discover the area or check out the city skyline from the rooftop plunge pool. Pass time on the swings in the lobby, while the roaming barista serves you the special Boon coffee blend (it’s Ethiopian and superb), or explore the courtyard where there’s always something going on. Every corner and object tells a story – from the quotes on cushions and walls to the arty animal sculptures playfully dotted around. The giraffe reminds guests to look at the world from a different perspective, the flamingos to relax in style. And with free wi-fi, you’ll be able to share those snaps or look at what other guests have discovered on @zabeelhouse.
The slightly larger Zabeel House by Jumeirah Al Seef is next door, has 200 rooms and opens this month. There’s an opening in The Greens neighbourhood of the city later in the year, and 2019 will see the brand come to London.
So if you want to experience a different side to Dubai, book now at zabeelhouse.com.