Words by Rosie Davis
Deep in the Arabian Gulf, the man-made city of Dubai has firmly established itself as one of the most popular travel destinations in the world.
Despite boasting some of the world’s most famous landmarks, breath-taking architectural feats and a host of luxury restaurants and hotels, it’s the country’s rich culture and unique heritage that really set it apart from the rest. As an ever-evolving city that has never done things by halves, Dubai is firmly on track to become the City of the Future – making it one destination not to be missed.
Hotel
Five-star luxury hotels are not exactly few and far between in Dubai, and the 35-storey contemporary property from the award-winning Turkish hotel chain is no exception. First opened in 2017, Rixos Premium Dubai JBR’s ultra-sleek gleaming black twin towers stand tall above its counterparts, occupying a prime location among the Marina’s jam-packed skyline.
Designed by Melkan Tabanlioglu of Turkish-based Tabanlioglu Architects, the hotel overlooks some of Dubai’s most famous landmarks, including the world’s largest Ferris Wheel, Ain Dubai, situated on Bluewaters Island opposite.
When you first enter, it would be easy to mistake the expansive vaulted-ceiling lobby for a stylish shopping mall rather than a luxury hotel, with an avenue of chic fashion boutiques, and upmarket restaurants and bars, lining the walkway to the check-in desk. But what the hotel may lack in character, it makes up for in glamour and style as the grand entrance guides guests to the beautifully furnished lounge, with the hotel’s vast windowpane overlooking one of the city’s most popular beaches.
Outside, there are two main pools within the hotel’s grounds, including a sleek infinity pool situated within award-winning Azure Beach, one of Dubai’s trendiest beach clubs. Hotel guests can also enjoy private cabanas that come with their own plunge pools, which are reservable for an added cost. There’s direct access to Jumeirah Beach too, with a private stretch of sun loungers reserved solely for the use of Rixos’ guests.
While the atmosphere can feel more suited to a younger crowd, families are well accommodated with Rixy Kids Club and the hotel’s own babysitting service.
Room
The hotel’s asymmetric buildings boast 414 rooms and suites, and while none feature balconies, the dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf more than make up for it. The colour palette is warm, contemporary and minimalist, with a variety of gemstone-coloured accents paying homage to the brand’s Turkish roots.
Guests can opt for either city or sea views, but with the sun setting directly behind Ain Dubai, the beachfront suites are not to be missed. At night, the JBR skyline comes to life with its very own light show from the adjacent buildings and Bluewaters Island – perfect to watch from your room’s plush window seat.
Suites are spacious with a dining area and living room adjoining a separate bedroom complete with a king-sized bed. Ensuite bathrooms feature walk-in rain showers and freestanding bathtubs, and an extensive selection of luxury toiletries from Chopard.
Food and drink
Designed to take you on a culinary journey around the world, Rixos Premium Dubai is home to no less than nine award-winning and world-renowned dining outlets. Arguably the most famous of these is the high-energy STK Steakhouse, with its chic interiors and party atmosphere meaning you will need to book well in advance. Another of the city’s most popular nightlife attractions is Lock Stock and Barrel, the American industrial-inspired sports bar that hosts live bands most nights.
Turquoise is the hotel’s all-day buffet restaurant, offering guests an assortment of culinary delights at breakfast, and dinner. For breakfast, guests can enjoy an excellent choice of cooked breakfast options and continental dishes, as well as freshly made healthy juices to kickstart your day.
Whilst the latest addition to the hotel’s in-house eateries is Godiva Café, the first in-hotel café for the world-famous chocolate brand. Standout choices include freshly baked crepes filled with rich Godiva chocolate and fresh strawberries coated in a smooth caramel-infused chocolate ganache; all of which can be enjoyed with an authentic cup of Turkish coffee, in yet another nod to the hotel’s heritage.
Meanwhile, at the glamourous Azure Beach, the adults-only pool transforms into a hub of lively entertainment, courtesy of resident DJs, musicians and dancers. There’s mouth-watering Asian-fusion cuisine and a delicious variety of cocktails to be enjoyed poolside, too.
To do
The hotel’s Naturelife Spa can be found on the second floor, offering guests a traditional Turkish-spa experience with an ornate marble hammam taking centre stage. There’s a variety of signature treatments on offer too, including Balinese, Thai, Swedish and Aromatherapy massages. The spa also features a steam room, sauna, and ice fountain for guests to escape the buzz of the hotel and truly relax.
RixGym, like most of the property, has breath-taking beach views from its floor-to-ceiling windows, and is well-stocked with its selection of weight machines, free weights, cardio and Technogym equipment. If you’re looking for a more unique workout experience, there’s the wooden Jungle Gym on the private beach, open to guests all day long in winter.
For adventure seekers, there’s plenty to do with Rixos’ offering of sky and sea activities including paddle boarding, snorkelling, jet skiing, water skiing, parasailing, flyboarding, scuba diving and yacht rentals, to name a few.
Outside the hotel, guests can enjoy a wander around the largely pedestrianised Jumeirah Beach Walk and Dubai Marina. A short walk from the hotel is the Flying Cup, a unique dining experience 40 metres above sea level, whilst on the opposite side of the beach, you’ll find Skydive Dubai, the city’s premier skydiving location for thrill-seekers.
In a nutshell
If you’re looking for a fun and lively hotel that is going to live up to Dubai’s extravagant reputation, then look no further than Rixos Premium Dubai JBR. There’s something for all ages, but those wanting to party all day and long into the night will enjoy this stylish property the most.
Given its beachfront location on a spot of prime real estate, the hotel grounds are not the biggest that can be found in Dubai, so it can feel bustling at times. But with easy access to a host of tourist destinations, it’s the perfect base for your stay in this opulent and vibrant city.
Factbox
Address: The Walk JBR Jumeirah Beach Residence, Al Mamsha Street, 643660
Phone: +971 4520 0000
Email: reservation.premiumdubai@rixos.com
Website: rixos.com
Photography courtesy of all.accor.com/B0K0
