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Luxury

Live Dubai's ultimate luxury experiences

Tue, April 30, 2024

Dubai is a luxury playground like no other, so here's a to-do list that's sure to impress.

Dubai is a luxury playground like no other, so here's a to-do list that's sure to impress.

1

Set sail on a private cruise

dubai-luxury-experiences-yacht-3

One of the expat community's favourite weekend activities (after brunch, of course) is cruising the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf by boat. Take it to the next level by booking a luxury yacht for a personalised tour around the city's shoreline for you and your friends. Xclusive Yachts offers a full crew and an open itinerary tailored to guests’ specifications. That's right, you can choose to spend a day relaxing in the sun with unbeatable views of Dubai’s skyline from off the coast, or take a special cruise for two that sets off at sunset.

2

Unwind in a sky-high infinity pool

Cloud 22 at Atlantis The Royal
Located at Atlantis The Royal, Cloud 22 promises unparalleled exclusivity and indulgence. Come to the rooftop pool destination for epic views of the Arabian Gulf and Palm Jumeirah, which you can enjoy while lounging in a duplex cabana or a submerged sunbed in the 90-foot infinity pool. There's nothing more relaxing than soaking up some sun, with delicious French-Mediterranean favourites on the side.
3

Book a helicopter ride

Helicopter Ride in Dubai

In a rush or can’t be bothered travelling by road? There’s good reason why Dubai's five-star hotels come with their own helipads. Hotels such as Burj Al Arab offer a helicopter service for guests wanting to spend a few days of indulgence, or those who simply want to pop in for high tea. Just book your sky-high travel arrangements through the property's concierge. You can also take a helicopter tour over the city via local companies including Falcon Helitours and Aerogulf Services. Meanwhile, HeliDubai is a VIP option that's at your beck and call for transfers to hotels, golf courses or even the mall.

4

Stay in a designer suite

Bulgari Resort And Residences Dubai

The stunning Bulgari Resort Dubai features a selection of premium suites and villas, each with designer interiors and luxe amenities. Heralding the Italian brand's first – and only – launch into the Middle East, the resort is a stylish addition to Dubai’s coastline. Tailored to Jumeira Bay Island’s seahorse-shaped curves, this is one of the city’s most exclusive addresses. The resort has seven dining spaces (including the two Michelin-starred Il Ristorante - Niko Romito), a private beach and pools, a stellar spa and an ultra-chic yacht club, all surpassing even the highest expectations.

5

Admire polo play in Dubai

Known as the sport of kings, polo is a popular pastime in Dubai, where Arabia’s equestrian roots are still prevalent among royals and the like. There are several prestigious matches hosted at Meliá Desert Palm during the polo season between October and April, with well-heeled guests soaking up the sun and the company. Get on the VIP list by checking out what's on Dubai Calendar during your stay. Visitors can also get on the saddle themselves, and perfect their swing at the resort's polo club.

6

Get behind the wheel of a supercar

In a city where even the police force patrols in Lamborghinis, high-performance vehicles are a must-have accessory for socialites. Fit in by renting a supercar from companies such as E and S Luxury Car Rental, VIP Rent A Car, Paddock Luxury or Prestige Exotic Car Rental, which features top-of-the-line Ferraris, Maseratis and more. Watch the high-rises whiz by in your rearview as you take a drive down Dubai’s famous Sheikh Zayed Road, or cruise along Jumeirah Beach Residence and Downtown Dubai. It's time to see and be seen.

7

Try teatime with a twist

Discover Dubai’s take on a quintessentially British pastime with high tea experiences. For the utmost in luxury – combined with a stunning Ottoman-inspired atmosphere – head to the Sultan’s Lounge at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on Palm Jumeirah. Sip your tea on the hotel’s beautiful outdoor terrace, or in the warmer months, enjoy the authentic ambience inside this picturesque resort. If you’re craving something sweet, stop by the hotel’s kiosk for some delicious Turkish ice cream.

8

Golf at a championship course

Emirates Golf Club in Dubai

Tee off at Emirates Golf Club’s Majlis course, and follow in the footsteps of golfing greats such as Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Ernie Els. Widely recognised as one of the most challenging and rewarding rounds of the European Tour, the 18-hole course’s meandering fairways are must-plays for any golfer worth their mettle. Designed by Karl Litten, it's the first grass course in the Middle East and plays host to the annual Dubai Desert Classic.

9

Treat yourself to a tranquil hammam

Talise Ottoman Spa Dubai
Spread across 8,200sqm, Talise Ottoman Spa offers a variety of relaxing experiences inspired by the Ottoman heritage. Guests can rejuvenate at this exquisite facility, located at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on Palm Jumeirah. With many fixtures hewn from marble and decorated by dark woods, mosaics and murals, the lavish Turkish hammam sits at the heart of the spa.
10

Witness the city's best sights

Atlantis Palm Jumeirah Balloon Dubai

Enjoy unbeatable panoramas of Dubai's coastal sights and glittering skyline from The Dubai Balloon, a tethered helium balloon which takes guests to heights of up to 300m. During your 10-minute trip into the sky, you’ll get the best possible view of Palm Jumeirah, and be able to see the full extent of this manmade marvel. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai.

The Dubai Balloon
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  • Atlantis The Palm - Crescent Rd - Dubai
11

Sample two Michelin-starred French cuisine

STAY by Yannick Alleno Dubai

Located at One&Only The Palm, STAY by Yannick Alléno features classic French dishes cooked using contemporary techniques, and a Pastry Library where desserts are custom-made. STAY is also one of only two restaurants in the city to be awarded two Michelin stars. Try the impressive spit-roasted offering for two, which includes beef that's been aged for 28 days, milk-fed lamb leg and whole wild turbot.

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