Bulgari Resort, nestled on a private island off the coast of Dubai, is the epitome of elegance. Since its star-studded opening almost six years ago, it has become one of the city’s most iconic destinations and it’s not hard to see why.
Discretion is paramount here, which is the reason the likes of Bella Hadid, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi escape to this haven when they jet to the UAE for some rest and relaxation. Selina Julien checks in to find out more.
Hotel
Beautifully blending the aesthetics of a traditional Italian seaside town with the opulence that the emirate is known for, this architectural wonder, complete with a coral-like sunshade motif on the façade of the building, ticks all the boxes. Aside from the stunning suites and destination dining, it’s also the first Bulgari property to boast its own harbour and yacht club.
Room
As our private butler led us into our suite, the glistening waters beckoned beyond the wrap-around terrace and it took a moment to register that we’d just arrived in a tiny slice of paradise. With the gleaming mega yacht in the distance, it’s breath-taking – and that’s just the view.
The sprawling 120sqm Bulgari Suite is styled like a private residence to feel like a ‘home away from home’. There’s a spacious living area perfect for hosting intimate soirees, a plush bedroom, a walk-in closet and cosy workspace, and marble bathroom with a Jacuzzi with views of the ocean.
There are 101 rooms and suites at the resort and 20 standalone villas with private pools and direct access to the beach for a more exclusive experience. Refreshingly, the vast bookcase takes centre stage in the suites, a dream for all bibliophiles, as every suite is curated with its bespoke collection of titles. Think everything from David Hockney’s The History of Pictures to Vogue: The Jewellery.
No expenses are spared with the state-of-the-art amenities either, step forward the rose gold wireless Phantom, and it’s the little touches that make a difference, such as the vintage trunk-style mini-bar (Ciao Ruinart!), bedside iPhone charger point, and thoughtful gifts to enjoy and take home such as a Bulgari wicker beach bag and stylish sarong.
Of course, nightly turn-down is done in true Bulgari style with a flask of hot herbal tea and handmade delicacies to enjoy before bed.
Food and drink
Gourmands will be in their element as this resort is the definition of destination dining. Award-winning chef Niko Romito, the curator of Bulgari’s ll Ristorante, and his team were in high spirits after receiving two Michelin stars the previous night. Excellent cuisine and service prevailed, featuring a guest appearance from the man himself to serve a decadent tiramisu for dessert.
While the nautical-inspired décor of the Yacht Club reflects its relaxed vibe, the emphasis here is on upscale Mediterranean dishes.
The dining jewel of the resort, however, is the laidback La Spiaggia beach club, where we enjoyed a light lunch and soaked up the ambience as the waves lapped against the shores. The wonderfully attentive servers, from a medley of countries from Nepal to Colombia, really bring the soul to this beach haven.
Order the supersized grilled prawns, smothered in garlic butter (and shipped in from Nigeria), it was by far our best meal at the resort. Team with the watermelon and feta salad and chilled Nina Franco Rustico Prosecco for an exceptional afternoon. The magic didn’t end there as our delightful beach waiters delivered two fresh coconuts with straws for us to enjoy that evening as we watched the spectacular sunset over the ocean.
Spa
Take a moment to relax and reset in the indulgent Bulgari spa, a 1,700sqm wellness labyrinth with a 24-hour fitness centre and personal trainers.
Whether guests want to take a dip in the cabana-lined swimming pool, take selfies in the Insta-worthy gold-tiled vitality pool, inspired by the ancient Roman baths, or enjoy traditional-style hammam journeys or thermal experiences, it’s all here.
For the ultimate treat, book Bulgari’s exclusive Augustinus Bader facial. The award-winning German spa brand is rooted in scientific research and promises immediate results with no downtime, and there was no mistaking the bright, glowing complexion after 60 minutes. And the compliments kept coming days after the treatment.
In a nutshell
With so many five-star hotels vying for attention in Dubai, Bulgari Resort is in a league of its own. It’s no wonder so many millionaires choose this super-luxury bolthole where the hotel gift shop is a Bulgari jewellery boutique and the marina is lined with superyachts. However, what brings this resort alive is the charming staff and management team who pull out all the stops to ensure every guest has an A-list stay.
Factbox
Dubai International Airport is just 25 minutes away and a taxi, limousine or boat transfer can be arranged via the resort.
Prices for suites at Bulgari Resort start from AED 10,000 (£2,120). Breakfast included. Wi-Fi is complimentary.
Address: Jumeira Bay Island, Jumeira 2, Dubai, UAE
Phone: +971 4 7775555
Website: bulgarihotels.com
Photography courtesy of Bulgari Resort Dubai.
