Dubai’s Best Boutique Hotels

There are many, many reviews and summaries out there of the best – and most over the top – places to stay in Dubai. But finding somewhere a bit more low key can be trickier. As an expat living in the Arabian Peninsula I have travelled frequently to Dubai, and have tried and tested many different hotels to find the hidden gems amongst the skyscrapers. Hopefully this will give you some inspiration for the more boutique, and characterful, places to stay.

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Old Dubai

XVA Art Hotel

@caitshaw

More of a boutique, guesthouse and art gallery than hotel. There are only 13 bedrooms in the heart of the tranquil old Bastakiya quarter, all decorated by a different local designer. Onsite is also a highly acclaimed art gallery and a design shop, three shaded courtyards, a wonderful vegetarian café – all of which are worth visiting even if you aren’t staying. Rooms are air-conditioned, but given the handmade nature of the doors the seals are not complete. Although there are also ceiling fans, in the summer months the rooms may get a bit stuffy.

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Full Review: XVA ART HOTEL

www.farawaydispatches.com

Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton

@caitshaw

Beautifully embroidered floor cushions, intricately carved wooden chests and walls adorned with photographs showing Dubai in the 1900s make it feel as though you have stepped onto a film set. The faux-historic setting doesn’t mean you need to scrimp on modern amenities – Nespresso machines are hidden behind the beautifully carved wooden boxes! The plush beds are very comfortable, with super high quality thick, cotton sheets. Some rooms can be noisy, as the hotel is spread out amongst the shops of the faux-souq below. Guests have access to the pools and gyms at modern sister hotels, Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al Seef and Hampton by Hilton Dubai Al Seef, a five-minute shuttle ride away. Al Seef is not an authentically historic option like XVA, but is a bit more luxurious.

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Full Review: AL SEEF HERITAGE HOTEL

www.farawaydispatches.com

Arabian Boutique Hotel - فندق أريبيان بوتيك

@caitshaw

With only ten guest rooms, there is a real personal and initinate vibe in the quieter heritage area of Old Dubai. Breakfast on the beautiful roof terrace is the highlight. Only 50m to the closest metro station and about 200m to the ferry station. The excellent Arabian Fish House restaurant is superb.

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Downtown Dubai

Rove Downtown

@caitshaw

Slightly different to the other central Dubai offerings, top floor rooms of this super quirky hotel opposite the Dubai Mall have views of the Burj al Khalifa. One of the best affordable hotels in the city. Expect stencilled walls, bright colours and artworks from around the world. Bedrooms are spacious and comfortable, although slightly lacking some of the character of the rest of the hotel. The small outdoor pool offers a secluded spot to float around in the shadow of the world’s tallest building! Rove even has its own boutique cinema.

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Dubai Creek

Vida Creek Harbour

@caitshaw

The highlight here is undoubtedly the infinity pool with it’s views over the Dubai city skyline. The hotel has three restaurants but I would really encourage you to get out into the area around the hotel - some of the best places to eat in Dubai are here. The hotel runs a free shuttle to the Dubai Mall and La Mer Beach. Service is consistently excellent and very friendly.

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Dubai Marina

SO/ Uptown Dubai

@caitshaw

The largest hotel on my Dubai hotels recommendations - with 188 rooms - but it just about still manages to deliver a more personal service. The hotel is filled with a curated modern art collection and the entire space definitely hits the “cool artist” aesthetic. Think velvet green sofas, geometric lights, a glass staircase and cool marble tables. One for design lovers. The spa is excellent. Surprisingly affordable luxury.

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Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton

@caitshaw

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cait Shaw

Hi! I'm Cait! I am a frequent expat and passionate language learner. I have lived in Oman, England, Scotland, France, Russia, China and Australia, and to date, have been lucky enough to travel to over 55 other countries! I have travelled extensively throughout the Arabian Peninsula, having lived in Oman for several years, so let me help you plan the trip of a lifetime to this fascinating region, and allow you to get behind the headlines and usual tourist hotspots. I can save you hours researching hotels, itineraries and where to eat - and take the stress and worry out of travelling to a less familiar destination. Tried and tested recommendations from a local expat. There are also few corners of my home nation - the United Kingdom - I have not yet explored, so know exactly where to recommend for you to have the very best trip to England, Scotland and Wales. These are the tips that will get you to the best historic castles, the most dramatic beaches and the tastiest pubs! I have travelled extensively around Europe, and in particular through France, including having lived in Paris. If you are thinking of visiting in 2024 for the Paris Summer Olympics I can help you design an incredible itinerary to make the most of this gorgeous country, as well as seeing some world class sport! I look forward to helping you organise the trip of a lifetime!

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