Name: Raffles Dubai
Price range: $$
Rating: 4.9

Description

Raffles Dubai carries an unusual silhouette in a city of towers: a pyramid set in the Oud Metha district, dressed in a distinctive Egyptian-inspired theme that runs through the lobby, the courtyard gardens and the corridors without tipping into pastiche. Connected directly to Wafi Mall and a short drive from DXB airport, downtown and the metro, it suits travellers who want a central base with a sense of seclusion rather than a beachfront resort. Rooms are among the most spacious in the city, with large covered balconies offering skyline or garden outlooks and a generous bathroom count across the suite categories. The Diplomatic Suites and Club-category rooms are the ones to aim for: the latter unlock access to the Club Lounge, where afternoon tea and evening canapes are served across two levels, with a thoughtful separation for families. Butler and housekeeping teams attached to these rooms are attentive without being intrusive. Dining is a genuine strength. Azur handles breakfast on a polished garden terrace, with an expansive buffet alongside a substantial a la carte menu - cooked-to-order eggs, fresh breads, an Indian station and a live pasta wheel that has become something of a signature. Solo, the Italian restaurant, draws a steady crowd for Neapolitan pizza, handmade pasta and tableside service under heated terrace lights with live music most evenings. There is also a Japanese restaurant on-site and a rooftop bar with one of the better obelisk views in the city. A few practical caveats: the pool is well run but modest for a hotel of this scale and can feel tight on weekends when sunbed availability thins. The Club Lounge at cocktail hour fills quickly, and balcony guests on the lower floors may pick up background noise from the nearby highway. For refined, low-key luxury within easy reach of the city centre, it remains one of Dubai's most distinctive stays.

Guest Reviews

4.8

Exceptional

50 reviews

Sandapuram A5.0

2 days ago

Dear sandapurama,Thank you for your lovely review and for sharing your experience with us.We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the delicious food and the tableside pasta experience. Your kind words about the service provided by Sai and Min, along with the culinary creations of Chef Rahul, will be happily shared with the team.We truly appreciate your feedback and look forward to welcoming you back again very soon.Warm regards,Raffles Dubai

Maria Sanchez5.0

2 days ago

Ghislain at Raffles Dubai is truly exceptional and sets the standard for outstanding hospitality. From the moment you arrive, he welcomes you with genuine warmth, professionalism, and a constant smile that makes you feel instantly valued.He is attentive, courteous, and always goes above and beyond to assist guests, whether it’s opening the door, offering help, or simply making sure your experience starts on a perfect note. Ghislain’s presence reflects the true luxury and elegance that Raffles Dubai is known for.A true gentleman and a credit to the hotel. Raffles Dubai is lucky to have him.I Can't wait to come back with my wife

Raj S1.0

2 days ago

Very disappointing stay, especially given this was booked through Amex Fine Hotels.At check-in, I was told my room was being upgraded. I explicitly confirmed twice that the upgrade was complimentary and would not result in any additional charges. Despite this, at checkout, I was presented with an unexpected bill of over $1,300 for the so-called upgrade. This felt misleading at best and dishonest at worst.Even more concerning was a serious privacy and safety issue. At 10 PM, while I was asleep, a male housekeeping staff member walked into my room unannounced. No knock, no warning. Waking up to a stranger standing at the foot of the bed was extremely alarming. When I called the room manager, I was given an implausible explanation that housekeeping was delivering extra pillows—something I never requested.Between the unauthorized room entry and the surprise charges, this stay fell far below acceptable standards. I did not feel safe, respected, or treated transparently. I would strongly caution others considering this hotel.