Decadent, abundant, colorful, spacious. These are the words I’d use to describe the Burj Al Arab.

I have entered the 7-Star category of hotels. And boy, was it! Mostly.

Burj Al Arab is an all-suite hotel. Meaning, every room is a two-floor suite. Enormous.

My lavish journey, however, began with a Rolls Royce chauffeur pick up from the airport. As this was part of my Birthday celebration, I thought, “Why not?” I had never been in a Rolls Royce before, so it seemed like a good idea.

The drive to the hotel was smooth. I was even happy there was traffic so I could enjoy my expensive ride a little longer. As we approached the hotel, there were throngs of tourists angling to take photos outside the gate, as I had done just six months prior. Only this time, the guard opened the gate, and we drove straight through. I barely got enough time to enjoy the moment of arrival, as my driver handed me a receipt to sign as we were pulling up. And then, there were so many people at the entrance taking photos, which taking a snapshot of myself, the car and hotel, was a hurried and uneventful experience. Bummer.

But then, my bags were whisked away, and I entered the hotel with a lovely greeting by four staff members, who offered me rosewater to clean my hands, and fresh dates.

I was escorted up to the main lobby level where the hotel’s elevators, shops, and access to a few restaurants were located. This is also where the architecture of the hotel becomes evident – as long as you look up!

Each floor was a different color, and it was so beautiful, whether you looked up or down from your floor.
When departing the elevator, each floor is serviced by a Butler and concierge desk. And, suites are located on two sides, as the design is a “V,” with a concierge desk located at the bottom of the “V.”
I was originally on floor 12, and then moved to floor 19, which was wide and expansive!

Enter, my suite.

 

Let’s go upstairs now.

There are Hermès products for both men and women, all wrapped and brand new. If there’s anything you need and it’s not there, just ask for it, and it will be delivered. Also, behind the door to the Master bath, there are two robes and a small bench for seating/dressing.

While I loved the insane amount of space for one person and all the decorative details of the suite, there were a few things that left me a little disappointed.

1. There are no windows that open. Okay, I get it, it would be a safety hazard and ruin the look of the building. But in Dubai, where air conditioning is everywhere, fresh air is necessary for overall good health. I felt imprisoned, and for the first time, I didn’t want to stay in my suite all day long.
2. The robes were not fluffy and soft. They were both enormous, and worn. Scratchy, almost.
3. Room Service food was not up to par with their seven-star status. Many items were not prepared consistently, or well, not even for five stars. While their room service and food charges are not exorbitant, like in many other hotels I’ve been in, it was reflected in the poor quality. I spoke with the Chef directly about my concerns.

Beyond those small disappointments, I loved The Terrace and pool area.

The Spa was luxurious and relaxing, and I had one treatment that was good.

Burj Al Arab has many restaurants, and views not to be missed! I had a tour of a Royal Suite, and those photos will be in another post!

When I was departing to stay in another hotel, part of the Madinat Jumeirah Resort, I missed the Burj. Would I return? Yes. Compared to my experience of staying in Madinat Jumeirah, I found the Burj Al Arab to be of EXCELLENT value. Although, I cannot wait to stay in the new Jumeirah Al Naseem and so wished it was open when I was in Dubai. Next time!

Have you stayed in the Burj Al Arab? Any tips you’d share with fellow travelers? Please comment below!

Until next time, thanks for reading and Happy Travels! 🙂