The most unique places to stay in Dubai

When it comes to truly unique places to stay in Dubai, few hotel rooms compare to Atlantis, The Palm’s grand Underwater Suite. Step inside and you'll be greeted by immense floor-to-ceiling windows that look into the striking Ambassador Lagoon, so you can admire colourful marine life directly from the marble tub or king-size bed. The hotel's 24-hour private butler service also means your every whim will be catered to. A haven for tranquillity, this luxury suite guarantees a memorable stay without ever leaving your room.

Designed to evoke Dubai’s rich Bedouin heritage, Al Maha transports guests to a world of desert luxury. With stunning views and five-star amenities across 42 suites, the resort blends the serenity of the desert with all the modern luxuries you could dream of. A Luxury Collection property by Marriott, Al Maha reveals a different side of the city to visitors through a number of traditional experiences, such as dining among the dunes, gazing at the stars and camel trekking. A stay here is simply unforgettable.

If the idea of a ski slope in the desert wasn't radical enough, how about curling up in front of a cosy fireplace? The incredible hearth at Kempinski Mall of the Emirates’ Aspen Chalet is just one of the rustic features that make this one of the top choices for a memorable stay in Dubai. The chalet mimics authentic Alpine decor right down to the use of wooden beams and flooring, while the city’s winter wonderland, Ski Dubai, is right outside your (expansive) windows.

The Armani Hotel Dubai is beautifully designed – courtesy of Giorgio Armani himself – and guests looking for a unique experience need look no further than the Fountain Suite. Occupying the lower floors of the world’s tallest tower, Burj Khalifa, the suite's magnificent entrance hall and chic living room are stunning, but its real draw is the unbroken views of Dubai Fountain. Watch transfixed as the awe-inspiring fountain dances its way into the night sky at regular intervals.

Palazzo Versace Dubai is a neoclassical masterpiece with subtle traces of Arabian architecture. Every single piece of furniture and fabric that adorns the hotel’s rooms, suites and residences, is designed and tailormade by Versace. The Imperial Suite is always in demand – the two-bedroom duplex features baroque and rococo art and design motifs across the rooms and living areas, alongside the finest amenities. Those looking to pamper themselves shouldn't miss a visit to the marble-laden underwater-themed spa.

Taking up residence on Dubai’s famed World Islands, Anantara has clinched the coveted title as the archipelago’s first resort. Accessible via a 15-minute boat ride from The Palm, the resort’s home island (named Clarence Island) serves as a private haven for guests. Take your pick from 70 lavish seaside villas and suites as well as pools, and alfresco dining. The beach pool villas offer direct access to the sands and, if you're travelling with family or friends, ask for the largest villa that features four bedrooms and a private pool.

From stunning wrap-around balconies to breathtaking marble floors and elegant furnishings, a stay at Bulgari Resort Dubai in Jumeira Bay is always an indulgent treat. Choose from 101 rooms and suites, 20 sea-view villas and celebrated in-house dining options. The signature Bulgari Villa is the biggest one at the palatial resort and features a sprawling oval-shaped pool, serene garden area, private home cinema and an indoor hydromassage and hammam.