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Living the luxury life: Most expensive luxury hotels in Dubai

By Icon Real Estate,

Living the luxury life: Most expensive luxury hotels in Dubai

As a leading global tourist destination, Dubai boasts an impressive selection of world-class hotels. If you’re seeking an exceptionally luxurious stay, consider exploring some of the most opulent and expensive hotels the city has to offer.

Luxury Hotels in Dubai: Top Tier Accommodations

Dubai has emerged as a global hub for luxurious hospitality, boasting some of the world’s most spectacular hotels and resorts. Leading brands in the hospitality sector vie to create an unforgettable initial impression. Whether your ideal escape features breathtaking ocean vistas, the awe-inspiring grandeur of mountains, or the endless expanse of the desert, Dubai’s most exclusive hotels offer unparalleled experiences.

For discerning travelers seeking the pinnacle of luxury and indulgence, this list highlights the most upscale accommodations in Dubai.

MORE THAN AED 10k PER NIGHT

Experience waking up to breathtaking views every morning. Indulge in exceptional amenities and services that will make you feel like royalty.

This list features hotels and resorts where nightly rates exceed AED 10,000.

THE BILTMORE HOTEL VILLAS

The Biltmore, a prestigious five-star hotel villa complex in Al Barsha, offers a blend of luxury and privacy within the city. Choose from spacious 3, 4, and 5-bedroom contemporary villas, each equipped with cutting-edge technology, a fully-equipped kitchen, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. Every villa boasts a private cinema and an outdoor pool with a Jacuzzi.

Personalized butler service and private chef options are available. Residents have access to restaurants managed by Millenium Hotels, a well-equipped fitness center, and a relaxing spa.

  • Approximate per night cost (suite): Starting from AED 13.6k
  • Location: Al Barsha
  • Contact: +971-4-308-5555

ATLANTIS THE ROYAL

A discussion of high-end hotels in Dubai would be incomplete without acknowledging the extraordinary Atlantis The Royal. This lavish beachfront resort on the Palm Jumeirah epitomizes luxury and sophistication in every aspect.

Atlantis The Royal offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious rooms and suites to exclusive penthouses, each featuring unique amenities such as private terraces, private pools, and thoughtfully designed interiors for unparalleled comfort. During your stay, you can indulge in world-class dining experiences at renowned restaurants helmed by celebrated chefs like Heston Blumenthal, Gaston Acurio, and Ariana Bundy. The resort also boasts exceptional nightlife, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, and unparalleled wellness offerings.

  • Approximate per night cost (suite): Starting from AED AED 14.4k
  • Location: Palm Jumierah
  • Contact: +971-4-426-30-00

ONE&ONLY THE PALM DUBAI

Indulge in the pinnacle of beachfront luxury at Dubai’s premier coastal destination, One&Only The Palm. This resort offers a collection of villas, suites, and a magnificent manor, all drawing inspiration from the serene beige tones and architectural elegance of Andalusia. Each boasts private terraces, ensuring utmost privacy and effortless access to the pristine beach.

Guests can enjoy dining at Stay by Yannick Alléno, a celebrated chef, as well as Zest, with additional private dining experiences available. The resort also offers unique activities, including Dubai’s exclusive Guerlain Spa, paddleboard yoga, cocktail-making workshops, and more.

  • Approximate per night cost (suite): Starting from AED 10k
  • Location: Palm Jumierah
  • Contact: +971-4-440-1010

ATLANTIS THE PALM

Experience the ultimate luxury at a hotel inspired by the mythical underwater city of Atlantis. At Atlantis The Palm, you can marvel at breathtaking views of marine life through floor-to-ceiling windows in your suite.

Guests receive complimentary access to Aquaventure Water Park, Dolphin Bay, and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. The hotel also boasts a diverse selection of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs to suit every taste.

For those staying in the Royal Bridge Suite, a private library adds an extra touch of exclusivity. Visitors can take advantage of various world-class amenities, including multiple swimming pools, a serene spa, and a stunning man-made beach.

  • Approximate per night cost (suites or rooms): Starting from AED 2.2k
  • Location: Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah
  • Contact: +971-4-426-2000

THE BVLGARI RESORT DUBAI

Located on the seahorse-shaped island in Jumeira Bay, Bvlgari Resort Dubai features the world’s first Bvlgari Hotel Yacht Club. Guests can choose beach-view rooms for breathtaking ocean scenery or indulge in the exclusivity of the luxurious Bvlgari Suites

You can enjoy 24-hour butler service upon request, along with exclusive access to a private beach, marina, fitness center, indoor pool, and beauty salon. As one of Dubai’s hotels offering private pools, it guarantees a truly unforgettable stay.

These sophisticated villas provide unparalleled solitude and luxury (photo courtesy of Millennium Hotels).

  • Approximate per night cost (suites or rooms): Starting from AED 12.5k
  • Location: Jumeirah Bay Island
  • Contact: +971-4-777-5555

UP TO 10K PER NIGHT

Here are some beautiful hotels and resorts where you can reserve a suite or a room for as much as AED 10,000 per night.

BURJ AL ARAB

With a 7-star rating, Burj Al Arab stands as one of Dubai’s priciest hotels, situated on its own private island. Its luxurious interiors are a perfect match for the stunning exterior, with each room designed uniquely so no two are alike.

By booking a suite, you’ll have exclusive access to a private beach and indulge in luxurious leisure activities on a stunning terrace featuring pools and cabanas. The perfect blend of art, exceptional service, and unparalleled luxury will ensure that your experience at Burj Al Arab is unforgettable.

  • Approximate per night cost (suites or rooms): Starting from AED 6.4K
  • Location: Jumeirah Street, Umm Suqeim 3
  • Contact: +971-4-301-7777

W DUBAI THE PALM

Located on Palm Jumeirah, W Dubai is a luxurious beach resort offering the ideal escape, whether you prefer to unwind or explore a variety of activities.

After enjoying diverse watersports, savour gourmet cuisine, relax in the spa, or unwind with cocktails at the rooftop bar.

  • Approximate per night cost (suites or rooms): Starting from AED 1.4k
  • Location: West Crescent Palm, Jumeirah
  • Contact: +971-4-245-5555

JUMEIRAH AL NASEEM

Jumeirah Al Naseem’s interior design draws inspiration from the desert, showcasing elements of Bedouin culture and pearl diving. Rooms and suites feature outdoor terraces providing stunning views of the lush gardens and pristine beaches. Guests can also enjoy a diverse selection of excellent restaurants.

Enjoy the thrill of Wild Wadi Waterpark, conveniently situated nearby. As a guest at this Jumeirah Hotel, you can anticipate exceptional service and access to world-class amenities.

  • Approximate per night cost (suites or rooms): Starting from AED 4.1k
  • Location: Jumeirah Street, Umm Suqeim 3 
  • Contact: +971-4-366-8888

ARMANI HOTEL DUBAI

Following closely behind in Dubai’s luxury hotel scene is the Armani Hotel Dubai, nestled within the iconic Burj Khalifa. Renowned for its prime location, this hotel also captivates visitors with its exquisite interiors, meticulously designed by the esteemed fashion designer, Giorgio Armani.

This hotel has become a top choice for luxury travelers in Dubai, renowned for its comfortable accommodations, vibrant nightlife venues like the PRIVE nightclub, delectable treats at Dolci Sweets, and numerous relaxing spaces for guests to unwind.

  • Approximate per night cost (suites or rooms): Starting from AED 2.4k
  • Location: Burj Khalifa, 1 Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai
  • Contact: +971-4-888-3888

KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE EMIRATES

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates is renowned for its luxurious amenities and high-end services, making it one of Dubai’s most prestigious hotels. Situated within the iconic Mall of the Emirates, this Kempinski property stands out as a sophisticated and stylish choice.

A key highlight of this hotel is its collection of 20 Aspen Ski Chalets. These chalets provide captivating views of Ski Dubai, allowing guests to observe the ski slopes and surrounding snow. Inside, each chalet boasts a faux stone fireplace, a well-appointed kitchenette, and a spacious marble bathroom. To further enhance the experience, guests enjoy the convenience of personal butler service. This level of luxury and attention to detail evokes a sense of the renowned Kempinski Switzerland, which offers comparable amenities and breathtaking snowy vistas.

  • Approximate per night cost (suites or rooms): Starting from AED 3k
  • Location: Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road
  • Contact: +971-4-341-0000

JUMEIRAH DAR AL MASYAF – MADINAT JUMEIRAH

Indulge in Arabian hospitality at its finest by booking a luxurious suite, summerhouse, or boutique villa at Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf. Guests residing in these spacious accommodations with private courtyards will enjoy personalized butler service. Moreover, a scenic waterway connects you to over 50 dining options within Madinat Jumeirah, ensuring an abundance of culinary choices.

This hotel offers a serene escape with stunning gardens, temperature-controlled pools, and a private beach, where luxury seamlessly blends with tranquility.

  • Approximate per night cost (suites or rooms): Starting from AED 3.2k
  • Location: Madinat Jumeirah, King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud Street, Al Sufouh 1
  • Contact: +971-4-366-8888

FOUR SEASONS RESORT DUBAI

Situated in Jumeirah, the Four Seasons Resort boasts stunning views. Guests can admire the Arabian Gulf on one side and the impressive Dubai skyline on the other from this elegant beachfront property.

Guests can admire the remarkable architecture before enjoying the hotel’s amenities. These include a 24-hour fitness center, watersports, tennis courts, a beauty salon, and the Pearl Spa. A variety of restaurants, lounges, and nightclubs make this resort an ideal destination to experience the best of Dubai.

  • Approximate per night cost (suites or rooms): Starting from AED 5k
  • Location: 2 Jumeirah Street, Jumeirah 2
  • Contact: +971-4-270-7777

PALAZZO VERSACE

Inspired by 16th-century Italian palaces, the Palazzo Versace Dubai is a stunning blend of neoclassical and Arabian architecture. This opulent hotel features grand entrances with soaring ceilings and beautifully landscaped gardens, reflecting its majestic scale.

With 215 luxurious hotel rooms and suites, along with 169 elegant residences, and a selection of eight exquisite restaurants and bars, the Palazzo Versace Dubai ranks among the most prestigious hotels in Dubai. It also presents an ideal choice for those seeking exceptional winter staycation experiences in the city.

  • Approximate per night cost (suite): AED 2.3k
  • Location: Jaddaf Waterfront
  • Contact: +971-4-556-8888

FAQS

WHAT’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT DUBAI?

While Dubai welcomes tourists throughout the year, the winter months (November to April) are particularly popular. During this time, the weather is more comfortable, allowing for enjoyable outdoor dining. Additionally, seasonal attractions like the Miracle Garden and Global Village are open for visitors.

WHAT HOTELS DO CELEBS STAY IN DUBAI?

Dubai boasts several luxurious hotels that attract celebrities. Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal are renowned for hosting A-list guests, including Beyonce, the Kardashians, Steve Aoki, and Robert De Niro.
Palazzo Versace is another popular choice, particularly favored by actor Michele Morrone, who has been seen there on multiple occasions.
For those hoping to encounter a celebrity during their stay, we can provide a list of Dubai’s most star-studded hotels.

CAN I FIND OTHER LUXURY HOTELS IN DUBAI?

For a luxurious stay in Dubai, consider booking a suite at The Address Downtown or the iconic pyramid-shaped Raffles Dubai. Alternatively, explore the exceptional offerings at FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai, Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, and Habtoor Palace Dubai, each boasting outstanding amenities and luxurious suites.

That wraps up our look at Dubai’s most expensive hotels. You can be sure to find top-notch service and some of the biggest names in luxury. If this has whetted your appetite for more, check out the other 5-star options Dubai has to offer.

Planning your Dubai trip? Iconre helps you find the perfect hotel.

Short-Term Rental Operations in Dubai

A Guide to Short-Term Rental Operations in Dubai

By Icon Real Estate,

A Guide to Short-Term Rental Operations in Dubai

To legally operate a short-term rental in Dubai, homeowners must first register themselves with the authorities. Subsequently, they need to acquire the necessary permit to designate their property as a holiday home. These processes are facilitated through the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)’s online platform.

Registration and Permit

Short-term holiday rentals are generally prohibited within hotel and apartment-hotel structures. Long-term holiday rentals may be available in select hotels, subject to individual developer policies. Residential villas intended for short-term rental must be situated within a gated community consisting of at least four villas.

To begin, you must register as a private property owner on the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) online portal. Subsequently, you’ll need to acquire a permit through this platform. The DET is the governing body for short-term rental agreements within Dubai.

Registration Procedure

To register, please follow these steps:

  1. Sign Up as a private owner and visit its holiday homeportal
  2. Please complete the application form
  3. Upload your Emirates ID or a photo of your passport
  4. Submit the application
  5. Upon successful application review, you will receive an email containing a link to the payment portal. A registration fee of AED 1,520 (USD 414)* is required. You can conveniently pay this fee using a credit card or any debit card approved by the Smart Government platform.
  6. Account activation will occur within one business day of payment receipt.

*fee amount as of September 2023

Permit Application and Approval

To operate your property as a holiday home after registering as a private owner, you must acquire a permit. This process is managed within the New Holiday Homes Permit Issuance section. Your property will be classified as either ‘standard’ or ‘deluxe’ based on the amenities you list on the provided checklist.

Homeowners are limited to registering a maximum of 8 units.

Please submit the following documentation:

  • A copy of the title deed*
  • Please authorize this using the approved DTCM form.
  • Please submit a copy of either your Emirates ID or your passport.
  • Current bill from the Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) (less than 3 months old)

*If you don’t have a title deed, you may submit a Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) alongside either a Payment Completion Certificate or a letter of clarification from the developer or building owner(s).

To obtain a permit for your holiday home, follow these steps:

  • Log into the Holiday Homes portal.
  • Click “Add a unit” and enter the required property details.
  • Submit the application with all required documents attached.
  • Within a single business day, applications are reviewed. The agreement will be uploaded to your dashboard and made accessible for self-classification as soon as it is received.
  • Upon successful submission of your self-classification and payment of the associated fees, your unit will be approved.

A mandatory service fee applies, varying based on the number of bedrooms in your unit. This fee includes AED 300 (USD 82) per bedroom, plus a AED 70 (USD 19) charge for a Holiday Home classification certificate, alongside a required knowledge fee and an innovation fee. The total permit fee can range from AED 370 (USD 101) for smaller units to AED 1,200 (USD 327) for units with four or more bedrooms.

Annual renewal of this permit is required via the designated online portal. A minimum service fee of AED 320 (equivalent to approximately USD 87) applies, encompassing a per-bedroom charge of AED 300 (approximately USD 82).

How to Work a Short-Term Rental Property

Listing your home on rental platforms is now possible since you have your permission and are registered with the DET.

Please be advised that to comply with DET regulations, your property must be fully furnished and insured.

Short-term rental agreements typically span a minimum of one day and can extend up to a maximum of six months. The specific terms of the contract, including any renewal options, are subject to negotiation between the landlord and tenant. The contract will clearly outline the agreed-upon payment frequency and acceptable methods (e.g., cash, credit card).

A security deposit is required from all tenants. This deposit will be used to cover any damages incurred to the holiday home during their occupancy.

Guests must be checked in through the Holiday Homes portal within three hours of their arrival at the property. This is accomplished in the “New check-in” section. If guests are GCC citizens, copies of their passports or ID cards must be attached. The “Check-out” section of the same portal facilitates the check-out process.

The Dubai Tourism (DET) launched a QR Code Initiative for Holiday Homes in May 2023. This initiative mandates that all holiday home owners display a QR code at their property’s main entrance. This code provides guests and visitors with essential information, including details about the holiday home operator and contact information for the DET.

Costs Incurred by the Landlord

The section below outlines the anticipated expenses for operating a short-term rental property.

Tourist Dirham

The Tourism Dirham is a per-room, per-night charge, irrespective of guest occupancy.

Tourism Dirham information must be entered into the Tourism Dirham e-System by the 15th of each month. Payments can be made via direct check deposit or bank transfer to the department’s designated bank account. For extended stays, the fee will be calculated only for the initial 30 consecutive nights following check-in.

This option emphasizes the system or framework used to set the fee.

  • Standard Holiday Home – AED 10 (USD 2.7) per room per night
  • Deluxe Holiday Home – AED 15 (USD 4) per room per night

Failure to comply with the regulations for paying the Tourist Dirham could result in a penalty of up to AED 15,000, which is equivalent to four thousand US dollars.

Utilities, Maintenance Service Charge,

As the holiday home operator, are responsible for covering maintenance and service charges. Guests will be responsible for paying for utilities, internet, and appliance usage as part of their rental fees.

What are the challenges of running a holiday home in Dubai?

Operating a short-term rental in the emirate is streamlined. All necessary procedures are handled through the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) online platform. Key steps involve registering as a private landlord and obtaining a holiday home permit. Guest check-in and check-out are also managed on the portal, simplifying the process for owners.