The Address Downtown is all about location, location, location. Situated in the centre of downtown Dubai, with unmatched views of the Burj Khalifa, and direct access to the Dubai Mall, a stay at Address Downtown is a stay in the very heart of a city designed to impress.
Straight off the plane from a night flight, we arrive at Address Downtown – the flagship hotel of the Address Hotels portfolio – in a sleepy daze. Greeted by gleaming marble, high ceilings, and a row of pristine check-in desks, the lobby is spacious and blissfully cool in contrast to the dry heat outside. A huge floral display distracts me as a smiley receptionist asks my name.
It’s been a year since the hotel re-opened following an extensive refurbishment – a fire in 2015 caused widespread damage – and it still feels brand-new, from the highly shined floors to the modern, minimalist décor.
After some initial confusion at check-in, we’re taken to our room. Just like the lobby, the room is spacious and pristine, but it’s the view that takes our breath away. Our balcony overlooks the glimmering lights of downtown Dubai and the architectural wonders of the Burj Khalifa – the tallest building in the world. Beneath it, the bright blue waters of the Burj Khalifa lake.
One of the highlights of our trip was enjoying evening drinks on our balcony, the sky turning burnt orange as the jets of the Dubai fountains sprung to life, the Burj Khalifa lighting up in unison.
Inside your room, expect luxurious marble bathrooms with double sinks and deep bathtubs – bath salts are provided which I thought was a nice touch. Unfortunately, one of our bathroom lights was broken and its continuous flashing scuppered my plans for a long relaxing soak.
Dressing tables feature Hollywood mirrors and top of the range Dyson Supersonic hair dryers. High-tech lighting is controlled by touch screen wall panels – choose between a Bright Scene, Relax Scene, or Night Time setting (which keeps the bathroom low lit).
Lights can also be controlled by an in-room iPad – which also allows you to view your bill, turn on the tv, and if it takes your fancy, order a yoga matt.
Blackout curtains do an excellent job of keeping out any light pollution, and we enjoy two glorious nights of uninterrupted sleep, helped by a soft and perfectly squishy bed.
Leaving your ‘Fountain View’ room doesn’t mean leaving behind the Burj Khalifa views – the entire hotel has been designed to maximise the panoramic views of downtown. An afternoon lazing by the pool, gazing at the glimmering glass of the Burj Khalifa, shouldn’t be missed. Add to that, attentive staff on hand with ice-cold flannels and iced smoothies, and you’ve got yourself a perfect afternoon.
There are eight bars and restaurants at Address Downtown, from the sky-high Neos bar, to casual outdoor dining at The Garden (great for nibbles and drinks in the evening). Breakfast is served in The Restaurant and it was a surprisingly disappointing experience.
Service was slow and food was below par – fermented melon and a bird poo covered parasol next to us topped it off. However, I did try The Restaurant again for lunch, and the food and service were much better. Afternoon tea fans should try the Bijou Afternoon Tea at the Lounge, there’s a long list of loose-leaf teas (try the rare and delicate Yin Zhen, White Night Jasmin tea), and delicate pastries and cakes.
The stand-out restaurant, however, is the Californian Asian restaurant Zeta. As well as the best views of the Dubai Fountain Show, the restaurant serves fresh, light sushi – don’t miss the Fountain Roll with prawn tempura and wagyu beef – and a selection of meat-heavy mains including tender Wagyu Ribeye, and the delicate and flavour packed Miso Black Cod. A crisp glass of chilled Pinot Grigio Rosé was a perfect pairing to a memorable evening.
Make time for an afternoon of tranquil relaxation and luxury pampering at the Address Downtown’s spa. I enjoyed a 60-minute Signature Massage and loved every minute. It’s rare to find a massage therapist who can deliver a firm, but relaxing massage – think somewhere between a bone popping sports massage and muscle-melting relaxation. Afterwards, I sip warm tea in the relaxation room, my typically tense shoulders feeling exceptionally supple.
The Address Hotel group understands the perfect formula for luxury hotels, and The Address Downtown is no exception. If you’re looking for a modern hotel right in the centre of Dubai, with unmatched views which will take your breath away, then the Address Downtown might just be your new favourite city hotel.
Rates at Address Downtown start at £232 per night, based on double occupancy.
Address: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed Boulevard , Downtown Dubai, UAE
Phone: +971 4 436 8888
Website: addresshotels.com
