13 top Dubai resorts that you need to experience
Dubai resorts are paragons of luxury hospitality, with top properties boasting impressive ratings of 4.6 to 4.9 out of 5 across multiple online platforms. What truly sets the best resorts in Dubai apart are their extraordinary amenities. From Atlantis The Palm’s Aquaventure to Anantara The Palm’s exclusive overwater villas (the only ones in Dubai), luxury Dubai resorts offer experiences that transcend typical holiday expectations.
If you seek exceptional resort experiences in 2025, these best resorts in Dubai deserve a place on your must-visit list.
New & Ultra-Luxury Resorts
Atlantis The Royal
Starting our list of luxury resorts in Dubai is the most ultra-luxury experiential resort in the world – Atlantis The Royal! This architectural marvel redefines Dubai’s luxury landscape, boasting 795 guest rooms and suites, 231 serviced residences, the Skyblaze Fountain and over two kilometres of private beachfront — the largest in the emirate.
Experience unmatched luxury at Atlantis The Royal, featuring elegant rooms, suites and signature penthouses. At 43 stories tall, it offers stylish interiors, stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Palm Jumeirah, and private outdoor spaces and pools. Guests enjoy infinity pools with skyline views, private gardens, a world-class spa and access to more than 35 Atlantis The Royal restaurants and bars, including 10 led by celebrity chefs!
Room rates* at Atlantis The Royal begin at approximately AED 3,120 per night, though prices fluctuate seasonally.
- Location: Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah
- Contact:
- Reservations: +971-4-426-0009
- General Inquiries: +971-4-426-3000
Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
Inspired by the sleek lines of a superyacht, this brand-new, luxury resort is set on Dubai’s largest private beach and features 390 rooms, suites and penthouses, all with panoramic sea views. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab highlights include four pools, a 3,500 sq. m. spa and 11 restaurants and bars. The property is the centrepiece of a broader luxury development, including a superyacht marina and exclusive marina villages.
Room prices at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab start from AED 2,608.
- Location: Jumeirah Street – Umm Suqeim 3
- Contact: +971-4-540-8888
List of the Best Resorts in Dubai
- Atlantis, The Palm
- One&Only Royal Mirage
- Jumeirah Beach Hotel
- Anantara The Palm Dubai
- Bab Al Shams Resort
- Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites
- Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
- Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
- Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai
- Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort
- Raffles The Palm Dubai
Atlantis, The Palm
Nestled on Palm Jumeirah, the majestic 114-acre, ocean-themed Atlantis, The Palm stands as one of the most recognisable luxury resorts in Dubai. It houses an impressive collection of 1,544 rooms and suites, making it one of the largest luxury Dubai resorts.
Regarding Dubai resort experiences, it boasts exceptional dining options with 35 restaurants, lounges, and bars, including renowned venues such as:
- Celebrity chef establishments: Nobu, Hakkasan and Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen & Bar
- Signature dining experiences: Ossiano (underwater restaurant), Seafire Steakhouse and En Fuego
- Casual options: Wavehouse, Saffron and Kaleidoscope
Atlantis The Palm ranks among the best Dubai resorts for families, offering dedicated children’s clubs, gaming facilities and extensive entertainment options.
Room rates* at Atlantis The Palm begin at approximately AED 1,615 per night, though prices fluctuate seasonally. The resort frequently offers special packages, such as “Stay 5 nights and pay only 4,” which include full-board dining and resort credit. Luxury suites command higher rates, with Grand Atlantis Suites starting from a whopping AED 36,260 per night.
- Location: Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah
- Contact:
- Reservations: +971-4-426-1000
- General Inquiries: +971-4-426-2000 (24 hours)
One&Only Royal Mirage
One&Only Royal Mirage is next on the list of iconic resorts to grace Dubai’s ever-evolving hospitality landscape. Rated as one of the best beach resorts in Dubai, it encompasses 65 acres of lush tropical gardens and boasts a generous 0.6-mile private beachfront.
Unlike newer properties, One&Only Royal Mirage offers a distinctive Arabian-inspired experience, divided into four distinct environments: The Palace, Arabian Court, Villas and The Residence. The resort creates an oasis-like atmosphere with four swimming pools strategically positioned throughout the property. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy floodlit tennis and padel courts, a putting green and various water sports.
Culinary excellence defines this Dubai resort, featuring 16 remarkable restaurants, bars and lounges. Regarding noteworthy dining destinations, Tagine offers authentic Moroccan cuisine with traditional tobacco-coloured walls polished with wax plaster, creating an immersive dining experience. Eauzone transforms from a casual daytime venue to a sleek, refined restaurant serving modern Asian-fusion dishes after sunset.
Room rates vary significantly by season, with the summer months offering better value. Rates for June 2025, for example, start at AED 1,000 per night. The resort provides excellent value compared to other luxury dubai resorts, particularly considering its prime location along Jumeirah Beach.
- Location: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street – Dubai Marina
- Contact: +971-4-399-9999
Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Instantly recognisable for its stunning wave-shaped design, Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a longstanding favourite among beach resorts in Dubai.
Family entertainment sits at the heart of this resort’s philosophy. Children receive complimentary access to the Kids Club, which offers creative activities designed for younger guests. Families staying at the hotel enjoy unlimited free access to the adjacent Wild Wadi Waterpark, one of Dubai’s most popular theme parks.
Price-conscious travellers will find that Jumeirah Beach Hotel offers excellent value among luxury Dubai resorts, with room rates starting from AED 980!
- Location: Jumeirah Street
- Contact: +971-4-348-0000
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
Blending Thai architectural elegance with Dubai’s lavish hospitality, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort is a distinctive sanctuary on the eastern crescent of the Palm Jumeirah.
For resort-style living in Dubai at its finest, Anantara The Palm boasts the first and only overwater villas in the UAE, making it a standout among luxury Dubai resorts.
The venue offers Lagoon Access rooms and Beach Pool villas for those who prefer direct water access. The property surrounds three azure swimming lagoons, totalling 10,000 sq. m., creating a distinctive “floating on water” experience that sets it apart from other Dubai resorts with private pool options.
Room rates start from approximately AED 1,300 per night, with the resort offering various accommodation options. Premium experiences like the Overwater Villas command significantly higher rates. Anantara The Palm Residences are available starting from AED 900.
- Location: East Crescent, Palm Jumeirah
- Contact: +971-4-567-8888
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort
Located within the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort offers an authentic Arabian experience rather than the beachfront luxury of its coastal counterparts. This recently renovated property, whose name translates to “Gateway to the Sun,” creates a traditional, fortress-like sanctuary amidst the golden dunes.
In contrast to typical city attractions, the resort specialises in authentic desert experiences. Guests can embark on guided luxury desert tours across the dunes in air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles, with opportunities to spot the majestic Arabian oryx in their natural habitat. Daily activities include:
- Complimentary falconry displays and archery sessions before sunset
- Traditional camel rides exploring the surrounding landscape
- Horse riding through the desert terrain
- Fat biking across sandy pathways
Standard room rates begin from AED 1,170 per night. Besides accommodation discounts, packages often include a daily resort credit of AED 250 redeemable for spa treatments and leisure activities.
- Location: Al Qudra Road
- Contact: +971-4-809-6100
Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites
Regarding the best beach resorts in Dubai, Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites shines as Dubai’s only luxury true all-inclusive beach resort. This Turkish-inspired sanctuary offers panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai’s iconic skyscrapers and the glittering skyline of Dubai Marina.
The Ultra All-Inclusive package at Rixos distinguishes it among all-inclusive Dubai resorts. Guests enjoy access to 11 bars and restaurants, including buffet dining at A La Turca and Turquoise Restaurants, plus selected à la carte venues (limited to three visits per stay with a minimum four-night booking). The all-inclusive experience extends to:
- Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served until 02:00 am
- Daily restocked mini-bar with selected items
- Complimentary access to the fitness centre and wellness facilities
- Entertainment activities throughout the resort
Families rank Rixos among the best Dubai resorts for families thanks to its comprehensive children’s amenities. The Rixy Kids Club operates daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, offering an extensive activity programme including magic shows, cooking classes, handicrafts, treasure hunts and beach games.
For overnight stays, prices average around AED 1,470 per night, with significant variations depending on the season and room type.
- Location: East Crescent – Palm Jumeirah
- Contact: +971-4-457-5555
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
With its sleek, contemporary design and beachfront setting, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira offers a fresh take on luxury among Dubai’s premier resorts.
Tasca by José Avillez is the property’s culinary crown jewel, earning a coveted Michelin star in Dubai’s inaugural Michelin Guide 2022. This contemporary Portuguese restaurant represents the first international venture for Chef Avillez, whose acclaimed Portuguese restaurants include the Michelin-starred Belcanto.
Room rates reflect the resort’s premium positioning in Dubai’s luxury market.
- Location: Jumeirah Road
- Contact: +971-4-777-2222
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa brings Indian hospitality excellence to Dubai’s luxury scene. This distinctive beach resort offers 258 elegant guest rooms and 67 lavish suites, all featuring private balconies with mesmerising views of the Arabian Gulf or Dubai’s glittering skyline.
Culinary excellence defines Taj Exotica with seven distinctive restaurants and bars. Varq is the jewel in the resort’s dining crown, offering contemporary and traditional Indian cuisine that visitors have described as “the best Indian dining experience.”
Room rates at Taj Exotica begin from approximately AED 899 for a Luxury room and AED 999 for a Luxury Sea View room per night. Half-board and club access options offer excellent value, particularly the club lounge access, which includes complimentary food and beverages during specified hours.
- Location: East Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah
- Contact: +971-4-275-4444
Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai
Perched on the exclusive Pearl Jumeira, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai combines upscale amenities with breathtaking Arabian Gulf views. The recently renovated beach club, refreshed in late 2024, elevates the resort’s status as a must-visit destination. Guests can find:
- Stylish rooms and elegant suites with modern amenities
- One and two-bedroom beach villas with private pools
- Garden villas in one and two-bedroom configurations
- A three-bedroom Ultimate Villa with private pool
Which Dubai resorts offer the best beach access? Nikki Beach Dubai boasts its private beach, offering guests VIP-standard access to the Arabian Gulf’s blue waters. A temperature-controlled outdoor pool complements the stunning beachfront, whilst the vibrant beach club provides a dynamic setting for sunbathing, music and coastal cuisine.
An average room at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai costs approximately AED 2,316.99 per night, representing substantial value considering the exclusive location and premium amenities. For day visitors, pool and beach access packages allow guests to experience the property’s exceptional facilities without an overnight stay.
- Location: Pearl Jumeirah
- Contact: +971-4-376-6000
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
Hidden in the pristine Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Maha Resort offers an alternative to coastal indulgence with its authentic Bedouin-inspired luxury.
The resort operates 42 individual villas across several categories, including:
- Bedouin Suites (the standard accommodation)
- Royal Suites
- Emirates Suites
- Presidential Villas
The activities reflect traditional Bedouin heritage whilst showcasing the destination’s natural splendour. Each guest may select two complimentary desert experiences per night’s stay, choosing from:
- Wildlife drives spotting gazelles and the iconic Arabian oryx
- Desert falconry demonstrations with trained birds of prey
- Traditional archery sessions under expert guidance
- Camel treks across the dunes at sunset
- Guided nature walks exploring desert flora and fauna
- Thrilling 4×4 dune drives through the undulating landscape
Room rates at Al Maha start from approximately AED 6,028 per night. This all-inclusive experience covers three gourmet meals daily and two desert activities per person per night.
- Location: Dubai-Al Ain Road
- Contact: +971-4-832-9900
Raffles The Palm Dubai
Adorned with 24-carat gold leaf and thousands of crystal chandeliers, the first Raffles resort in the Middle East, Raffles The Palm Dubai, is a palatial jewel on Palm Jumeirah’s West Crescent. The lavish accommodations start with Deluxe rooms spanning 656 sq. ft., featuring antique silver or gold motifs and crystal pendants.
Raffles The Palm Dubai houses a magnificent 3,000 sq. m. Cinq Mondes Spa, one of the largest indoor pools on Palm Jumeirah, and extensive wellness facilities, including traditional Moroccan and Turkish hammams.
Dining options celebrate global cuisine through several distinctive venues:
- Matagi: Modern Japanese cuisine in an intimate setting
- Piatti by the Beach: Southern Italian flavours
- Le Jardin: International buffet with garden views
- Blüthner Hall: Elegant afternoon tea service
Standard room rates at Raffles The Palm begin at AED 1,722 for weeknights, whilst weekend prices increase substantially to approximately AED 2,629. July and June offer the most economical rates.
FAQS about hotels and resorts in Dubai
Which are the top family-friendly resorts in Dubai?
Here’s a summary of the best family-friendly hotels and resorts in Dubai and their best offerings.
Atlantis, The Palm: Legendary for its Aquaventure Waterpark, The Lost Chambers Aquarium and many family activities. Kids’ clubs, marine experiences and family suites make it a perennial favourite.
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort: Lagoon-style pools, sandy beaches, spacious rooms and a kids’ club with activities for all ages. Watersports and family-friendly spa treatments are also on offer.
JA Lake View Hotel (JA The Resort): Adventure activities like horse riding, mini golf and archery, plus access to eight pools and a private beach. The waterpark and kids’ club cater to all age groups.
Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai: One of Dubai’s newest family resorts, featuring a massive waterpark, four kids’ clubs, themed family rooms and a candy-themed kids’ spa. The adventure waterpark and beachfront setting are perfect for families with children of all ages.
Which area is best for first-time visitors to stay in Dubai?
For first-time visitors, Downtown Dubai or Sheikh Zayed Road are ideal. These areas offer excellent sightseeing opportunities, with attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and numerous cultural venues within easy reach.
What are the best luxury resorts in Dubai for a romantic getaway?
For couples seeking the ultimate in iconic luxury, Burj Al Arab is unmatched. Its sail-shaped silhouette is a symbol of Dubai and inside, the suites are lavishly appointed. Couples can indulge in private beach access, world-class dining and a spa experience that feels exclusive and intimate.
Bvlgari Resort Dubai offers a blend of Italian elegance and Arabian hospitality, situated on the exclusive Jumeirah Bay Island. Its private marina, serene beach, and sumptuous spa create a tranquil, romantic atmosphere.
One&Only The Palm is a secluded haven on Palm Jumeirah, celebrated for its Moorish-Andalusian architecture, lush gardens and immaculate private beach. Couples are treated to tailored service, world-class spa treatments, and exquisite dining experiences.
Are there any Dubai resorts with pet-friendly policies?
Dubai is increasingly welcoming to travellers with pets and several resorts offer pet-friendly policies without compromising luxury or comfort.
W Dubai – The Palm is a luxury beach resort that welcomes up to 10 kilograms of pets. It offers a customised dining menu for pets, toys, beds, and bowls. With direct beach access and a chic, playful vibe, it’s perfect for travellers seeking a high-end, pet-friendly escape on the iconic Palm Jumeirah.
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray offers a luxurious ‘Ultimate Petcation’ experience, with pet-friendly rooms, exclusive pet dining options and amenities like beds, bowls and toys. Its private beach and opulent Ottoman-inspired setting make it a top choice for those seeking indulgence without leaving their pets behind.
Which Dubai resort offers the best all-inclusive experience?
Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites is one of Dubai’s top luxury true all-inclusive beach resorts. Guests enjoy access to multiple restaurants, bars, unlimited beverages and various entertainment activities as part of their stay.
Are there any desert resorts near Dubai?
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort, offers an authentic desert experience just 45 minutes from Dubai. It features private villas in Dubai resorts, with individual pools and complimentary desert activities, such as wildlife drives and camel treks.
Which Dubai resorts have the best dining options?
The Mandarin Oriental Jumeira houses Tasca by José Avillez, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering contemporary Portuguese cuisine. It is located on the sixth floor and provides panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf.
And that wraps our list of the best resorts in Dubai. If you’re looking for more places to unwind in the city, check out the most luxurious beach resorts in Dubai.
Dubai’s resorts are not just about opulence- they offer immersive experiences, from world-class dining and spa treatments to thrilling waterparks and adventure activities for all ages. With new resorts like Atlantis The Royal and Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab raising the bar, Dubai remains a global leader in luxury and family-friendly hospitality.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a sun-soaked family holiday, or a glamorous getaway, Dubai’s best resorts promise unforgettable memories in the heart of the UAE.
There are also some desert resorts in Dubai that offer a lavish interpretation of a nomadic life. As a global metropolitan, the emirate has no shortage of luxury hotels. You can check out our guide on the top 10 hotel brands in Dubai to find the best destinations for staycations and business trips.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability.
- All images are courtesy of the hotel’s official website.
- Featured Image Credit: Atlantis The Royal Official Website.
