The Burj Al Arab stands on its own man-made island about 280 metres off Jumeirah Beach, joined to the shore by a private curved bridge. Completed in 1999 and rising 321 metres, it was shaped after the sail of an Arabian dhow, and it has defined the Dubai skyline ever since. It is an all-suite hotel, with duplex suites over two floors, and the interiors have always been unapologetically lavish: gold leaf, Statuario marble and Swarovski crystal. Dining has included Al Muntaha, high on the 27th floor with a MICHELIN star, and the Skyview Bar, known for its afternoon tea above the Gulf. The hotel is now closed for a restoration of around 18 months led by the French architect Tristan Auer, who restored the Hôtel de Crillon in Paris. His brief is renewal rather than reinvention: to keep the sail and most of the original décor and craftsmanship while bringing the rooms and services up to date.
Closed for restoration. Jumeirah expects it to reopen around late 2027.
- Nearest airport
- Dubai International Airport (DXB), 11 Miles / 17 Kilometres
- Rooms
- All-suite, duplex suites
Insider tip Do not plan a stay before late 2027. The view of the sail from Jumeirah Beach at sunset still works for any Dubai trip in the meantime.
Why I choose it It is the building that put Dubai on the map, and once restored it will again be the city's most theatrical stay, ideal for a short, celebratory visit.