Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

The Burj Al Arab stands on a man-made island in the Persian Gulf. Its sail-shaped silhouette has long been a symbol of Dubai: for centuries local people lived off the sea and sailed the Gulf in sailing boats, and today the Sail stands for prosperity and success.

Officially it is a five-star hotel, but guests and guidebooks all call it seven-star — you won't find luxury like this anywhere else.

What to see inside

Suites. The hotel has 202 duplex suites on 28 floors, from 170 to 780 sq m. Each has at least one bedroom and a living room, panoramic windows with views of the Gulf and Dubai, gold in the décor and Hermès toiletries.

Restaurants and bars. There are 9 restaurants and bars. Most are on the ground floor; higher up are the Al Muntaha restaurant and the Skyview Bar and Gold On 27 bars, with views over the city and the Gulf.

For guests there is a beach, pools, a spa, a gym and unlimited access to the neighbouring Wild Wadi water park.

How to get there

The hotel stands on an island off the Jumeirah coast (Umm Suqeim), linked by a bridge. Only guests and visitors with a restaurant reservation or a tour ticket can cross it. A taxi is the easiest way; the nearest metro is Mall of the Emirates, a few minutes away by taxi.

Tips before you go

If you are not staying, there are three ways in: book a table at one of the restaurants or bars, join the official Inside Burj Al Arab tour (sold by Jumeirah), or book a Dubai city tour that stops at the hotel. Book ahead: the bridge is open only to visitors with a reservation.

Restaurant and bar guests who are not staying at the hotel can only use the public areas and cannot go up to the guest floors.

The best photos of the Sail are taken from the neighbouring public beach, especially at sunset.