On the East Crescent of Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah, this Anantara-branded resort seems a world away from the modern sheen of the emirate’s huge skyscrapers. The Thai-inspired architecture makes it more reminiscent of an Asian temple — a theme that continued when on arrival at 5am, I enjoyed a short ride to my suite on a tuk-tuk.
A few hours later, in the early Dubai heat, I drew back the curtains in my large, sleek room — accented with tasteful Thai touches — and stepped out on to the private balcony over the hotel’s wide ‘lagoon’, a moat-like pool encircling part of the resort. I took a quick dip in the water before heading to breakfast, enjoyed on an outdoor terrace with stunning views of the infinity pool and surrounding coastline.
The Anantara is one of those resorts that’s hard to leave, especially when the Dubai heat starts to bite. There’s plenty here to occupy visitors, from watersports, tennis and beach volleyball to fine dining at a host of venues such as the sumptuous Mekong restaurant, a signature Anantara spa (due to open in March) and a private beach where you can soak up the sun, swim or sip a few cocktails until dusk.
Words By: Halima Ali
Address: East Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE.
Contact: T: +971 4 567 8888. dubai-palm.anantara.com
Price: Rooms from $365, including breakfast, 20% discount on dining and spa, as well as complimentary room upgrade. Available May 16 to December 31.
Verdict: 7/10
Published in the Winter Spring 2014 issue of ASTAnetwork