Burj Al Arab The most luxurious hotel in the world,

Built to resemble a dhow sail in a testament to the country’s seafaring heritage; the impressive architecture of Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai makes it one of the most photographed and admired buildings in the world.

The Arrival: The hotel’s signature Marhaba welcome is the epitome of true Arabian hospitality. From the white Rolls Royce chauffeur airport pickup to the Door men dressed in traditional Emirati uniforms are waiting to welcome you out of the car escorting you into the hotel lobby, where hostesses greet you with a refreshing cold towel, dates, rose water and Arabian coffee helping you transition from the world outside to the Burj Al Arab. One can only but marvel at the large waterfall ensconced within the 180m tall lounge (it can fit the entire Statue of Liberty in it)

Hotel Amenities: The hotel has a whooping 8 restaurants from which guests can choose from. We love the Al Mahara restaurant, whose sumptuous sea food is served in a wondrous, subterranean setting. This is apparently Dubai’s most popular place to propose . The main, circular dining area and private dining rooms are lit by the glow of enormous seawater aquarium. As well as this, there is a vast array of futuristic dining and nightlife options all catering to a VIP clientele that regularly includes red carpet celebrities and royalty. Located on the 18th floor is the lavishly decorated Assawan Spa & Health Club which features a decor strongly reminiscent of hammams from ancient Middle Eastern civilizations. The designated ladies and gentlemen’s relaxation areas, both offer THÉMAÉ and La Prairie treatments.

The rooms: All rooms, you can’t really call them that really as every room is actually a suite are of the highest standards, spanning over two floors with and floor to ceiling windows, which boast incredible views.   The 202 residences are spread over 28 floors, each with an amazing view of the Arabian Gulf and come with your own private butler.  In-suite technology includes 93 cable television channels, two in-house television channels, a vast array of DVDs screened on 42” plasma screens with surround sound, a business desk with laptop, scanner, complementary broadband wireless internet connection and private fax.  The in-suite electronic system enables you to open the floor to ceiling windows curtains and switch off the lights with a flick of the fingertip. Every suite also benefits from a collection of fabulous first-class treats, including an extensive selection of full-sized complimentary Hermés products as well as a pillow menu with 17 options. Upgraded suites include snooker tables, libraries, cinemas and private elevators.

Unique state-of-the art facilities amenities include hovering tennis courts, 24-carat gold iPads, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and iPod doc.

In all, the ostentatious and exuberant interior; picture gold leaf, leopard upholstery and embroidered silk wallpaper, might not suit everyone’s taste but we can tell you that, all that glitters is gold at the Burj Al Arab.

The Burj Al Arab, www.jumeirah.com.  Tel +9714 301 7777. Rates from £1,530 a night

By Hina Mirza

Images from Forbes.com