Review - Palace Downtown Dubai
The prince's Downtown Palace was sumptuous and - while being in the center of everything - it still was a calm oasis. A perfect representation of Dubai today: an old Arabian palace amidst modern skyscrapers.
Directly next to the Burj al Khalifa in downtown Dubai this luxury resort might not be on your point-collector's-list, as it is not part of any international chain ("just" the local Address Hotels and the U by Emaar-program), it is still very well worth your money - especially when you book with a Virtuoso agent: we got an upgrade from the "cheapest" room to a big suite. Let's take a look!
Atmosphere
When arriving to the palace by car, the driveway already impresses while passing through courtyards with water fountains and palm trees.
To some this might seem like a theme park (as Dubai itself might do nearly everywhere), but I actually found it very fitting. After we entered the lobby through huge wooden doors the atmosphere was captivating and similar to the Madinat Jumeirah resort (see my review here) and as I stated there: I do like the old Arabian style. It didn't feel like a theme park because the materials and fabrics used were of high quality (and there were no roller coasters).
Adding to the oriental atmosphere was the warm welcome and fantastic service throughout our stay. Beginning with a wet towel, smoothie or tea and continuing with the friendly receptionists and concierges.
Our Suite
Since we booked with a Virtuoso agent we got a room upgrade, but this time we have been so lucky to get a Diplomatic Suite (one higher than a Junior Suite), although we just paid for the "cheapest" room in the hotel.
One thing we didn't get through our upgrade, though, was a view of the fountain. Instead, our - really spacious - balcony faced towards another artificial lake and random skyscrapers/construction sites.
Nonetheless, we loved our suite: it was nice to have a living room and balcony, a large bathroom with bathtub, shower and two sinks and all appliances and furniture of high quality.
Dining
Luncheon by the pool and a shisha afterwards? Love it!
Shisha and Moroccan mint tea - a fine combination
Thai Red Curry of the fantastic Thai Restaurant in our suite? Love it!
That salmon was my favorite breakfast item on offer - delicious
Dubai-typical huge breakfast buffet with a view of the Burj al Khalifa? Love it!
Some mezze in the evening by the water? Love it!
The bill please
There is a pool, too
Throughout our stay it was nice to have a big pool with Khalifa-views and cabanas to relax after some shopping in the neighbouring Dubai Mall or other adventures in the city.
Summary
| Hotel | Palace Downtown Dubai |
|---|---|
| Brand | The Address Hotels and U by Emaar |
| Good |
|
| Bad |
|
| CT Points | 96 |
This city palace really impressed us. We've put it on our map for whenever we have a transfer stop in Dubai or for parts of a UAE holiday to finish with a few relaxed shopping days before returning home.
After a wondrous time in the kingdom of Dubai we finally had to depart. Luckily, our journey back was to be as comfortable as our accommodation... but that's a story for another blog post.
The Dubai Fountain show together with an impressive light show happened every night
