When this timelessly elegant Mediterranean villa-style resort first opened in 1998, Dubai Marina was still the middle of nowhere. Now it's dwarfed by high-rises, but the mature gardens and tall palms create a visual berm. Rooms and suites are carpeted, dressed in pastel shades and accented with arabesque design features. All have a terrace or patio.
The hotel spa is a real draw for some with its 12 private treatment rooms (several with their own terraces), plus traditional hammam, lap and plunge pools and state-of-the-art fitness centre.