Hotel review: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai

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Hotel review: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai
Hotel review: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai



Located on the west corner of the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, the Zabeel Saray is an upmarket five-star hotel with an air of luxury that matches its exclusive address.

While many of the hotel group's properties are set on Jumeirah Beach, the Saray is the only one to be found on the iconic The Palm.

The up-and-coming area is still developing so doesn't yet have the established feel and hustle and bustle of the likes of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. However, we found this worked for us and, if the packed-out pool loungers were anything to go by, dozens of other holidaymakers did too.


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First impressions
As soon as you pull up outside the Zabeel Saray one word springs to mind: opulence. The lobby is truly sumptuous, oozing a traditional Arabic feel with a modern elegance. The hotel was inspired by the imperial palaces of the Ottoman era and this is clear to see as soon as you step foot in the building.

What's to love?
Everything you need is right here on the grounds. The luxurious feel extends throughout the property, from the beautiful rooms to the exclusive 'Avenue of Indulgence' boutique shopping area, the huge infinity pool, and the 10 restaurants.

The large pool with views over the ocean has to be one of the best hotel pools around, being bath-warm and big enough to accommodate everybody.

Hotel review: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai
Hotel review: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai



But if it's the feeling of sand between your toes that you're after, don't worry, there's a beautiful private beach where you can order drinks directly from your sun lounger.

Best rooms in the house
A large property, there are 443 rooms, including 26 lavish suites, and 38 Royal Residences with ocean views. We stayed in a Premium Deluxe King Room, which featured a modern but ornate bathroom with a huge tub for two and views over the Arabian Gulf. Want to push the boat out? Opt for the Imperial One Bedroom Suite on the highest floor of the resort with separate living and dining areas. Families are well catered for with Deluxe Family Rooms available too.

Eat at
We had a fabulous dinner at the Rib Room, which is a meat-lover's paradise but also does offer fish options. The setting is particularly modern with a cool members club chic (leather Chesterfields await) combined with a relaxed, buzzy atmosphere. There's a host of amazing eateries, with everything from Indian cuisine at Amala, to Lebanese delights at Al Nafoorah, officially one of the best in Dubai. Zabeel Saray is also home to the MusicHall, which is an incredible space that showcases live music acts while serving gourmet food. And, if you're looking for a cocktail or two, the Voda Bar is a sleek spot to sip, see and be seen. Don't fancy getting all dressed up? Keep it relaxed at the Plaj beach bar. Don't forget to check when Happy Hour is - a number of the restaurants and bar offer two-for-one late afternoon or early evening.

Hotel review: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai
Hotel review: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai



This place is perfect if you...
Are keen on a high-end family trip - it's luxurious but not too formal and there were a host of children having the time of their life. It's also perfect for a honeymoon or romantic getaway as the facilities are so extensive everyone is catered for.

Don't miss
Do not, whatever you do, miss out on a trip to the spa. The Talise Ottoman Spa is the last word in indulgence and, as the weather was rather hit and miss during our stay, was a welcome haven. Lined with marble and decorated with elaborate mosaics, the ladies' side (men and women have separate spa areas) was absolutely stunning. An enormous hot tub sat majestically in the middle of one room, surrounded by relaxing chill-out booths along the walls. My hot stone massage was one of the best I've enjoyed.

Top tip?
While holidaying at the Zabeel Saray, you can visit a host of other Jumeirah properties, making the most of fabulous dining options, including at the famous Burj Al Arab, and simply put the cost to your room with your key card. You also have free access to the Wild Wadi Waterpark, perfect for kids or just the big kid in you. If you upgrade to Half Board, dining options at a host of restaurants in Dubai will be included in your package,

I want to go!
Rooms at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray start at £190 per night (including taxes) for a Superior King Room. The hotel is around 45 minutes from the Dubai airport. Visit jumeirah.com for more information,

See more of the Zabeel Saray hotel in our gallery of pictures below:





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