Business Bay is one of the most in-demand neighbourhoods in Dubai. Proximity to high-end hotels, world-class restaurants and outstanding shopping has long placed this neighbourhood in the crosshairs of residents who are looking for a sophisticated address in the city. First conceptualised as “a city within a city” as part of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed Al Maktoum’s vision for Dubai, the area has gone from strength to strength in the last decade and now features some of the city’s most iconic buildings, including the tallest 5-star hotel in the world: JW Marriott Marquis. Read on to discover the best Business Bay has to offer.
La Perle
Just a stone’s throw across the canal in Al Habtoor City, this highly popular permanent show contains the perfect blend of immersive acts and imagery, complemented by the very best technology.
La Perle incorporates astonishing stunts with world-class special effects. The shows – and artists – cater to the audience, with the 270-degree seating plan doing its best to make you feel a part of the proceedings. The fun doesn’t stop there in this world-class theatre, however. Patrons can watch in awe as the stage fills with water before a fearless artist attempts a daring dive from as high as 18 metres. Astonishingly, as quickly as the water appears it has then drained, leaving the audience speechless.
The brainchild of late theatre director Franco Dragone – who spent time working with Cirque Du Soleil – La Perle is set in a luxurious 10-storey theatre at the V Hotel Dubai and features a cast of 65 supremely talented artists. This masterpiece of innovation and imagination, which will leave you wide-eyed and eager for more, is a theatrical journey not to be missed.
Fine Dining Restaurants
Home to a diverse array of exceptional restaurants, Business Bay boasts some outstanding eateries led by acclaimed chefs – some of whom have earned the coveted Michelin star distinction.
Jara by Martin Berasategui is a fine Basque cuisine option at The Lana, Dorchester Collection on Marasi Drive. The chef has garnered no fewer than 12 Michelin Stars throughout his various restaurants across his illustrious career so far, ensuring the fare is simply sublime.
Riviera by Jean Imbert, also located in The Lana, channels the spirit of the South of France through its Mediterranean-inspired menu, while also offering stunning views over Marasi Bay Marina towards the Burj Khalifa. But its standout attribute is arguably the chef himself – named GQ’s Chef of the Year in 2019 and one of Vanity Fair’s 50 most influential French people, Jean Imbert is a global culinary force known for blending tradition with a modern flair.
Couqley French Brasserie – located north of Dubai Canal on Marasi Drive – presents delectable steak options, while Basta Italian Restaurant accords a wide selection of classic pasta and pizzas, as well as an excellent Business Lunch package. ROKA Dubai provides an outstanding Japanese experience with some of the best sushi in town, while Soul Kitchen Dubai brings an expansive menu – every dish bursting with flavour.
Pool Days
Located in the SLS Dubai Hotel, Privilege Dubai is situated on the 75th floor and includes fully redeemable F&B. Further enhanced by two infinity pools with breathtaking views of the city, this pool day experience is one of the best you will find in Business Bay. The Signature cocktails are a particular highlight of this exceptional venue, while the attentive staff add another layer of convenience to the establishment.
On the south side of Marasi Drive sits Lily’s at Canal Central Hotel, which provides another top-class pool day option. Enhanced by pool-side cabanas, an infinity pool and an Instagram-worthy swing to capture that iconic Dubai skyline, Lily’s stands proud among the best pool days in the area.
Infinite beauty abounds at the top of The Lana, which offers an exquisite pool day experience in a highly exclusive retreat. With awe-inspiring views of the Burj Khalifa, the dreamy morning unfolds into sun-drenched afternoons, while delightful fare courtesy of chef Jean Imbert is available all day. This Dorchester Collection hotel pool day has redefined the cabana lifestyle made famous by Dubai residents.
Wellness Facilities
Business Bay’s abundance of 5-star hotels each provide exceptional spa and wellness services, perfect for pampering after a long day spent in the sun or out shopping.
Saray Spa in the world-class JW Marriott Marquis is another exceptional wellness facility with no fewer than 17 private treatment rooms. The facility – inspired by the caravanserais along the historic Silk Road trade routes – also provides private hammams, customised treatments and a dedicated ‘Girl’s Day’, ideal for ladies' pampering sessions.
Elixir Spa and Health Club at The Hilton Hotel in Al Habtoor City presents a serene and inviting facility, with more than 20 treatment rooms. Featuring dedicated professionals, the experiences here help bring body and mind back into balance. A range of premium spa treatments for the face and body allow guests to unwind in a truly relaxed environment.
Dubai Water Canal Walk
Perfect for an evening stroll along the canal, this part of the neighbourhood offers 8km of pedestrianised pathways – a wonderful way for visitors to soak in the atmosphere at the end of their trip, or for residents to simply relax and unwind.
Calming and quiet, the trail encompasses both sides of the canal, linked by walkable bridges while providing majestic views of the city. The water fountain adds a soothing ambience to the pristine surroundings, and for the more adventurous, it’s possible to walk from Business Bay to Jumeirah Beach.
As one of Dubai’s premier neighbourhoods, Business Bay comprises a wealth of options for discerning residents and visitors alike. From luxurious hotels featuring pool days, wellness facilities, and fine dining, to cultural attractions such as the iconic La Perle theatre, this renowned district truly has something for everyone.
