Palm Jumeirah (West Crescent)

One&Only The Palm

★★★★★

One&Only The Palm is the resort to choose when you want Dubai's beach and skyline without the crowds, and it is one of the most romantic places to stay in the city. It sits on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, the outer ring of the island, and describes itself as Dubai's most intimate seaside resort, which is fair: instead of a single tower there is a low-rise collection of buildings in elegant Andalusian style, with arches, courtyards, fountains and gardens running down to a secluded private beach that looks straight across the water at the glittering towers of Dubai Marina. Rooms are among the largest in the city. Beachfront Premier Rooms in the low-rise Palm Beach Mansions are around 79 square meters, with private balconies or terraces and beach access, and Palm Manor Premier Rooms are around 65 square meters with garden or partial sea views; there are two-bedroom family rooms, beachfront junior suites, some with private pools, and villas for the full splurge. The dining headliner is STAY by Yannick Alléno, which holds two Michelin stars and is one of the best restaurants in the Emirates, and the resort itself has been awarded two Michelin keys, the hotel equivalent of the stars. The atmosphere is calm and polished rather than lively: gardens, sea views, sunset drinks and attentive service, with a strong sustainability record including EarthCheck Gold certification. It is expensive, and it is not the place for children who want slides and kids clubs. For couples, honeymooners and anyone who values space, privacy and an outstanding dinner, it is one of the finest resorts in Dubai.

The location on the West Crescent is a strength and a trade-off. The view across the water to the Marina at night is one of the best from any Dubai hotel, the beach is sheltered and quiet, and the resort feels far from the city's bustle. On the other hand, you are a taxi ride from most attractions, with the Marina closer than Downtown, which takes around half an hour or more in traffic. Most guests treat it as a place to rest between city days, or as the second half of a split stay after a few nights in Downtown.

Choosing a room: the Beachfront Premier Rooms are the sweet spot, with direct beach access and sea views, while the Palm Manor rooms are a little smaller and better value, with garden views. Families who want calm rather than activity will find the two-bedroom family rooms excellent. The junior suites with private pools are worth the extra for a honeymoon. Book STAY when you book your room, since it is in demand from non-guests too; the resort's other restaurants and bars cover more casual meals and sunset drinks by the water.

Who it suits: couples, honeymooners and travellers who want a boutique luxury resort rather than a big hotel. Who should look elsewhere: families with active children, who will be happier at Atlantis, and anyone who wants to walk to the city's sights. For a romantic stay with the Marina lights across the water and one of the best dinners in the region, it is hard to beat.