Business Bay, a key component of Dubai’s central business district and a thriving lifestyle destination holds many claims to fame. It is home to the second tallest hotel in the world and also contains a plethora of attractions that neatly contrast with its commercial offerings.
Ideally situated near other sophisticated neighbourhoods such as Downtown and spanning almost 50 million sq.ft., the district is one of the most important in the city. Located on the banks of Dubai Canal – a prime stretch of waterfront – and within a stone’s throw of world-class attractions such as the iconic Burj Khalifa, the exclusive enclave is a highly unique destination not just in Dubai, but in the UAE as a whole. As such, the area is home to some of the city’s most exclusive hotels, each offering a unique experience. Read on for your guide to Business Bay’s most exclusive hotels.
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai
Architecturally unique, the JW Marriott Marquis once held the proud distinction of being the tallest hotel in the world. Situated within two iconic towers set perpendicular to the canal, the hotel houses 1,364 standard guest rooms, 240 suites, 4 "presidential suites", as well as a range of top-class amenities.
Floor-to-ceiling windows in every suite offer exceptional views across Business Bay and beyond, with every room oozing exquisite design. The top-floor duplex, long a top choice of UHNWIs, comes with its own dedicated dining spaces, as well as generously designed spaces for relaxation, with exclusive access to the Executive Lounge. Spa-like bathrooms, complete with rainwater shower heads and double sinks, mean weary travellers can pamper themselves in the utmost luxury.
With no fewer than 12 award-winning restaurants, bars and lounges, visitors can enjoy a range of diverse international dining experiences, bursting with flavour and scents. Aqua Poolside Grill and Bar allows guests a relaxing option, with world-class refreshments close at hand.
Nothing has been left to chance in this sophisticated hotel, meaning visitors can relax, safe in the knowledge that their every need is taken care of.
The St. Regis Downtown Dubai
Despite its name, this elegant hotel is technically located in Business Bay – overlooking the Dubai Canal. While it is undoubtedly a world-class hotel, the facility offers much more than just a place to stay – it represents an experience, complete with bespoke services and signature rituals. This prime location property also promises to cater “to the unique needs and desires” of all of their guests.
With a range of rooms on offer – nine styles in total – expansive views of Business Bay and the surrounding area are a key selling point. The jewel in the crown where the rooms are concerned is arguably the Royal Suite, which features a spacious living area complete with pool table and even a telescope to survey the Dubai skyline. The bathroom – replete with high-end stone fixtures – also offers comfort in abundance, with its vast walk-in shower and stand-alone tub.
With impeccable facilities inside the rooms, the wider hotel is no less impressive. The St Regis provides discerning visitors with a sophisticated experience through its four outstanding restaurants and two bars, most of which offer panoramic views of the city. The property also features an on-site spa, an exercise room, an infinity pool and a pool bar, while the wider area is brimming with other world-class amenities.
SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences
Highly exclusive, SLS represents one of the finest options when it comes to choosing hotels in Business Bay – offering “luxury with a playful twist”. The hotel, ideally located just seconds from Business Bay crossing, is one of Dubai’s tallest hotel towers and furnishes visitors with unobstructed views of the iconic Burj Khalifa.
Featuring rooms designed by multi-award-winning designer Paul Bishop, each provides guests with their own vast terrace or balcony – as well as a choice of exceptional views across Dubai Creek or towards the Burj Khalifa. The pick of the rooms is arguably the Sky Premium King. As one might expect, the aforementioned stunning city views are the key feature, while the lounge and furnished terrace also provide a touch of grandeur.
The hotel also offers a range of dining options – including the Michelin-recognised Fi’lia and the Carna Dubai steakhouse – as well as a cocktail bar, cigar lounge, coffee shop and rooftop pool complete with nightclub. Guests in search of a relaxing experience can unwind in the hotel’s wellness facilities, with the Ciel Spa featuring the world’s highest overflow pool. IV therapy and a top-class gym are also to be used at your leisure.
Marasi Drive is conveniently located just a short distance away, significant for its excellent dining facilities, as well as Marasi Boardwalk which boasts walkable paths – perfect for an evening stroll.
The Lana - Dorchester Collection
The Lana exudes that sense of exclusivity rarely matched by other Business Bay hotels. Offering elevated living, the hotel – ideally located on Marasi Drive – knows exactly how to look after its guests and provides outstanding rooms with a fine mix of hospitality and design.
With a range of rooms on offer, the highlight of the property is unquestionably The Lana Royal Suite – outstanding in every way. The two-bedroom suite spans an impressive 3,822 sq.ft., featuring generous living spaces and elegant fixtures and fittings, complemented by a distinctive grand terrace that offers sweeping 180-degree views of Downtown Dubai. The suite also includes a butler service, as well as round-trip airport transfer and a spacious dining room for complete convenience.
The refinement doesn’t end with the rooms. The Lana also offers exquisite restaurants such as Jara by Martin Berasategui, Riviera by Jean Imbert and the exclusive High Society at the very top of the hotel. Also on offer are spa and wellness facilities – perfect for a touch of R&R – as well as an exceptional infinity pool with a regal terrace, offering incomparable views of the city.
Taj Dubai
A seamless blend of sophistication and contemporary style awaits at this lavish establishment, which draws on traditional Indian influences. With 296 spacious rooms, the establishment is ranked among Dubai’s best 5-star hotels – each room offering spectacular views of the iconic Dubai skyline.
A multi-award-winning hotel, the Presidential Suite offers its refined guests a unique experience amid vast expanses. Sprawled across the entirety of the 35th floor, this two-bedroom suite represents the apex of luxury – and at more than 7,000 sq.ft., it’s easy to see why. With a grand master bedroom and second bedroom featuring twin beds, as well as a living area large enough to accommodate multiple guests, this suite is a true stand-out. The room also features a kitchen, office and dining room, as well as a majlis and private massage room. Of course, views of the esteemed Burj Khalifa abound from the private roof terrace, while the discerning resident also benefits from evening cocktails at Taj Club Lounge.
The hotel – located on Burj Khalifa Street – also provides a number of other outstanding amenities for its guests. The Eloquent Elephant, Treehouse and Bombay Brasserie are just a selection of high-end restaurants on offer within the hotel, while J Wellness Circle delivers a range of ancient Indian healing rituals via its spa, yoga and meditation services.
