13TH STREET | SHEIHK RASHID RD | WAFI CITY | DUBAI, VEREINIGTE ARABISCHE EMIRATE
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The United Arab Emirates has been one of our most cherished travel destinations for more than 25 years. The reason is evident. In few countries are possibility, activity and continual reinvention concentrated with such force — and at such remarkable pace — as they are here.
It is not without reason that the Emirates remain among your favoured destinations, too. Your suggestions, enquiries and enduring curiosity, dear readers, continue to inspire us to seek out and portray the region’s most exceptional hotel addresses.
Dubai, today the luxury metropolis of the Orient, was once a quiet fishing village. The discovery of substantial oil reserves in 1966 gradually brought with it immense wealth and influence. The emirate first captured the attention of the world through a series of spectacular architectural projects, swiftly becoming a dream destination for those prepared to travel far in pursuit of the extraordinary. The desert, together with the pristine beaches of Jumeirah, offered the promise of unforgettable holidays in a place defined by superlatives.
As the years passed, ever more ambitious projects emerged. The world’s most renowned hotel groups quickly recognised the boundless potential of this tireless region and established themselves here, one after another, with buildings of striking splendour. Dubai grew; its attractions for guests of every generation multiplied; and the fascination of international travellers increased year after year. From a once-sleepy fishing settlement on the Persian Gulf arose the Dubai we know today: a city of brilliance, glamour, chic and elegance — a meeting place for the elite and a destination for travellers with a profound appreciation of luxury.

The origins of the emirate can now be sensed only in a handful of districts. Modern, glittering skyscrapers, ever larger shopping malls and ambitious entertainment parks, together with new urban quarters such as Downtown, JBR, Marina and City Walk, now define the city’s most coveted hotspots. Yet it is not only tourists who have come to value this remarkable corner of the world. Around 85 per cent of Dubai’s present population originates from abroad.
Following the Burj Khalifa — the world’s tallest building, rising to an impressive 828 metres — the developers of the Dubai-based construction company Emaar continue to surpass themselves before anyone else can. Work is currently under way on the next tallest building in the world, the Dubai Creek Tower, rising beside the waterway from which it takes its name.

That architecture plays a defining role in this metropolis is clear to every visitor — perhaps most vividly from the very first taxi journey from the airport, when the city’s extraordinary skyline comes into view. Just a few minutes’ drive from Dubai International Airport stands one of the architectural icons that has formed part of the cityscape for more than a decade: the pyramid of the luxurious Raffles Hotel.
Indeed, you read that correctly. A structure paying homage to the architectural mastery of ancient Egypt is home to one of Dubai’s leading hotels. On the world’s best-known review platforms, this address continually achieves the highest ratings and, for several years, has held a leading position among Tripadvisor’s top hotels in the city. Since opening, the property has distinguished itself through exceptional guest satisfaction — and for precisely this reason, it occupies a very special place in Dubai’s hotel landscape.

We have visited this remarkable hotel personally. Join us as we discover a residence in Dubai that is, in every sense, truly exceptional.

We wish you a most pleasant stay.

Warmest regards,

Martin V. Sampedrano Gonzalez
Editor

The Pyramid of Dubai

Dubai is an architectural el Dorado of the highest order. The sheer diversity of its constructions defines the city’s contemporary skyline — one that seems to expand perceptibly with each passing month. Most developments aspire ever higher into the sky; not so the architects of Wafi City.
Just a few kilometres from the international airport and the city’s most coveted hotspots, an entire urban enclave has been dedicated to the architectural artistry of ancient Egypt — a civilisation still celebrated across the world for the magnificence and grandeur of its historic monuments.
Alongside private residences, a shopping mall and a variety of dining venues, the expansive Wafi Pyramid forms the centrepiece of the development. It is here that our destination awaits: the luxurious Raffles Dubai hotel.

As the car approaches the imposing entrance, attendants dressed in finely tailored frock coats are already waiting to offer a gracious welcome. Impressive, solid stone columns adorned with Egyptian wall paintings introduce arriving guests, from the very first moments of their stay, to the design theme that will accompany them throughout.
Inside the elegant reception hall, exquisite marble glistens in the sunlight streaming through the expansive window façades. Rounded récamiers, generously dressed with plump cushions, encircle a small central waterfall, whose delicate cascade seems to separate the entrée from the wider lobby like a diaphanous curtain.
Here, too, monumental columns — each distinguished by striking scenes from ancient Egypt — and magnificent Arabian ceiling lamps with oriental ornamentation define the interior. Together, they immerse the space in a stately world reminiscent of the tales of One Thousand and One Nights.
Warm, delicately scented towels, fresh dates and aromatic coffee, poured from a traditional Arabian dallah into small porcelain cups, are presented as part of the welcome ritual.

The reception is arranged across four illuminated desks in the right wing of the lobby, with finely fanned palm leaves set in grand vases behind them, elegantly framing the Raffles Hotels logo. The warm, inviting atmosphere is shaped in part by numerous sources of indirect light, which lend the entire reception area — together with the adjoining, elegantly appointed Raffles Salon — a particularly enchanting mood, especially in the evening.
Presiding over all, and ever present in the very finest sense, is the almost indescribable warmth and attentiveness of the staff — a level of gracious service capable of delighting even the most well-travelled aficionados of luxury hospitality.
Accompanied by the receptionist, guests are led by lift to one of the upper floors. Along the corridors, the elegance of the lobby continues with quiet assurance. Oriental lamps, gleaming marble, highly polished wood panelling, Egyptian statues and further antique artworks line the way to the luxurious rooms and suites.
As far as the eye can see, nothing appears even remotely sterile or cold. And should one fear even the faintest hint of a Disneyland effect, one may rest assured: there is none. Quite the contrary. The interiors convey warmth, quality and unmistakable style.

Raffles Dubai defines its Signature Rooms as the hotel’s standard category — though, with an impressive 70 square metres of living space, they offer a remarkably generous refuge for both leisure and business stays in Dubai.
In addition to a walk-in wardrobe and a spacious bathroom with separate shower and corner bathtub, the open-plan living and sleeping area delights with warm colours and elegant furnishings. Earthy tones and golden accents create a particularly atmospheric sense of place.
Guests may choose, prior to arrival, between a king-size or twin bed, according to preference. The room further features an expansive living area with a corner sofa and coffee table, as well as a generous writing desk with a comfortable office chair and the customary communication connections required for a seamless stay.
The décor is distinguished by handcrafted details. Ornamentation and exquisitely worked fabrics reflect the elegance of the Orient, touched by subtle Asian influences. All rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi, a high-definition LED television with a wide selection of international channels and a high-quality audio system.
A true highlight is the balcony, measuring approximately 10 square metres, furnished with a chaise longue and contemporary, softly upholstered rattan armchairs. Arabian lanterns add a further note of warmth and intimacy. From here, guests may take in what is surely one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Dubai skyline. The view is exceptional; and despite the multi-lane road in front of the hotel, the impression of a tranquil private retreat overlooking the city remains entirely undisturbed.

In addition to the Signature Rooms, guests may choose from the hotel’s Club category rooms. Designed in the same elegant style, these offer the added privilege of complimentary access to the Club Lounge, where a selection of dishes and refreshments is served throughout the day.
From breakfast and afternoon tea to pre-dinner canapés, small culinary pleasures are presented on elegant tiered stands, lending each moment a quietly indulgent sense of occasion. Arranged across two levels, the lounge is a refined private retreat, ideal for those seeking an added measure of discretion and calm.
Guests staying in Club rooms also enjoy the convenience of personalised check-in and check-out. In addition, up to two garments per night may be pressed on a complimentary basis.
For those in search of something truly exceptional, the hotel offers an impressive collection of luxurious suites, including Diplomatic, Landmark, Deluxe Landmark, Presidential, Ambassador and Royal Suites. The property is also home to two penthouses.
Club access is likewise complimentary for suite guests, while the legendary Raffles Butler Service is available upon request. From unpacking luggage and attending to personal wishes to preparing for departure, the butler remains at the guest’s disposal with impeccable discretion and grace.

Time for Body, Mind and Soul

After a long journey, as a restorative pause from a shopping marathon through Dubai’s impressive malls, or as an indulgent day-long ritual in its own right, Raffles Spa offers a sanctuary for the senses.
The menu of relaxing and therapeutic treatments is extensive. Six elegant spa suites, including one designed for couples, invite guests to relinquish the pace of everyday life within an atmosphere shaped by refined Arabian-Asian influences.
In total, the spa spans approximately 1,200 square metres and offers a wealth of amenities beyond its luxurious treatment rooms. These include separate sauna and steam bath areas for ladies and gentlemen, as well as a serene spa lounge. A recently and comprehensively renovated fitness area is also available.
An international spa team attends to guests with quiet care at every moment, bringing each treatment journey to a gentle close with a soothing tea ceremony.
Just a few steps from the spa lies the outdoor pool, designed in the style of an Egyptian sundial, with comfortable loungers and an adjoining pool bar. Here, too, the devoted souls of the house ensure an untroubled interlude of relaxation, whether beneath the warmth of the sun or in the cooling shade.

Culinary Experiences

Raffles Dubai is a destination of distinction in culinary terms, too. Solo Restaurant is known throughout Dubai for its creative and accomplished Italian cuisine. In an atmosphere of relaxed elegance, traditional delicacies from the diverse regions of Italy are elevated with contemporary influences from the world of international haute cuisine.
Red brick walls and inset mullioned windows evoke the architecture of a Lombard farmhouse, while colourful ceiling lights and an open-plan spatial concept introduce a more modern sensibility. Wednesday evenings at Solo are especially atmospheric. 

Azur Restaurant offers international culinary refinement in buffet form throughout the day. Whether for breakfast, lunch or dinner, guests are invited to discover delicacies from around the world. The ambience is bright and contemporary, while in pleasant temperatures the adjoining terrace provides an elegant setting for dining al fresco. During the holy month of Ramadan, the restaurant places particular emphasis on Arabic specialities for Iftar, the breaking of the fast.

At Raffles Garden, guests embark upon a journey through Arabic cuisine, enjoyed in intimate style within a private cabana overlooking the hotel’s own garden. Those who wish may then savour a traditional shisha and let the evening unfold gently to Arabic rhythms beneath a canopy of stars.
Alongside international cocktail creations and a wide selection of further drinks, Crossroads Bar also serves a variety of dishes from the international repertoire. These may be enjoyed either indoors or on the outdoor terrace in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

The Raffles Salon, set within the hotel lobby, more than lives up to its name. Here, the classic afternoon tea is celebrated in an elite and elegant setting, with delicate sandwiches, scones and an array of refined pastries served in the grand tradition. At present, the Floral Afternoon Tea, created in collaboration with Forever Rose London, forms a particular highlight. The floristry house is known worldwide for its preserved roses and rose arrangements, which continue to bring pleasure for years. This artful sensibility provides the inspiration for the tea-time experience: not only the delicacies and tea selections, but also the salon’s decoration, are gracefully shaped by the theme of the rose.

A Lasting Impression

Raffles Dubai is one of those addresses that remains unmistakable, even in a city defined by spectacular hotels. The property stands for generous, classical luxury hospitality, shaped above all by a standard of service that is as attentive as it is discreet.
Travellers who value space will particularly appreciate the elegant Signature Rooms. Their generous proportions and private balconies, with sweeping views across the skyline, are by no means a given in Dubai and lend the stay a pleasantly private character.
Relaxation is found at Raffles Spa, while the hotel’s restaurants offer a varied selection of culinary experiences. The location, too, proves exceptionally convenient: the airport is within easy reach, as are many of the city’s principal sights. Depending on traffic, Dubai Mall is approximately 15 minutes away by car.
We recommend Raffles Dubai to travellers who appreciate personal service, a warm atmosphere and opulent, Arabian-inspired design. Those in search of uncompromising minimalist purity may feel more at home elsewhere. For all others, the hotel is a characterful, comfortable and exceptionally reliable address in Dubai.

Photography: Raffles Dubai