An Arabian Dream: Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, Dubai – Hotel Review

One of four hotels that forms the sprawling Madinat Jumeirah complex, which sits on Dubai’s longest private beach, Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf is a modern interpretation of a traditional Arab village comprising a cluster of summerhouses, lining manicured pathways and scenic canals along which wooden ‘abras’ – traditional-style boats – serenely glide.

Read the C&TH Guide to Responsible Tourism

Hotel Review: Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, Dubai

Arabian Summerhouse, Majlis Sitting Area

STAY

Each of the 29 summerhouses (which comprise a variety of nine or 11 rooms) are set around peaceful inner courtyards, some with beach views, while others overlook the peaceful waterways from generous terraces. Inside, clean, neutral furnishings are embellished with Arabic design touches like horseshoe arches and decorative geometric lattice work, alongside large mosaic-lined bathrooms and an abundance of luxury offerings from private butlers to a daily cocktail hour where drinks and snacks are served from 7-5pm.

There are also the seven newly-refurbished Malakiya Villas, secluded havens that come with their own entrance, dedicated butlers, pools and kitchens, for the ultimate privacy.

Arabian Summerhouse Superior Suite

DO

Alongside 2km of private beachfront, which is home to a variety of beach clubs, there is also the sprawling Talise Spa at Jumeirah Al Qasr, which is home to a series of private treatment villas, a guided yoga and meditation garden, ladies-only facilities, and a menu featuring treatments like the Sensory Awakening Candle Massage. Guests also have complimentary access to the adjacent Wild Wadi Waterpark and there is a traditional souk with over 75 boutiques and shops, state-of-the-art fitness facilities with padel courts and a tennis academy, as well as a Turtle Rehabilitation Lagoon.

Arabian Summerhouse Superior Suite Bathroom

EAT

Start your day with breakfast at Arboretum, the all-day dining restaurant at Jumeirah Al Qasr, which serves a mega buffet of international dishes from dim sum to eggs, pancakes and Arabic mezze. From there, eat your way around the complex’s 50 or so restaurants and bars, which includes everything from Mexican fare at Tortuga to Rockfish, a mediterranean dining room that specialises in fresh seafood. Shimmers, meanwhile, is a chic beachside club and the best spot to get your Greek food fix, followed by cocktails against an epic sunset.

Majlis

THE FINAL WORD

Whilst the Madinat complex might seem overwhelming at first, the sheer offerings of facilities alongside the attentive service and scale of operations is impressive. And Jumeirah Al Masyaf – the furthest hotel along the stretch – is the best place to stay for the best of both worlds.

BOOK IT

Rates at the Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf start from £655 per night, not including breakfast. jumeirah.com

Lauren was working in Dubai when this review was conducted.