Opened in 2024, One&Only One Za’abeel is Dubai’s first “vertical resort,” housed in a striking dual-tower structure linked by The Link, a 230-meter cantilevered boulevard. Located in Za’abeel, near Downtown Dubai, its 229 rooms and suites, starti...
On Palm Jumeirah, Dubai’s man-made marvel shaped like a palm tree, beachfront villas gleam as monuments to ambition. These mansions, like the AED 300 million Ayumi project sold in 2024, are not mere homes but emblems of a city vying to eclipse London and New York as a haven for the world’s elite. With gold-detailed interiors, private infinity pools, and vistas of the Burj Khalifa piercing the sky, they draw billionaires seeking grandeur in a desert oasis. Here, high society finds a stage where wealth and dreams converge.
Palm Jumeirah, crafted by Nakheel Properties and completed in 2006, spans 560 hectares, its 16 fronds lined with 4,000 villas. The Ayumi villa, a 25,000-square-foot masterpiece on Frond G—dubbed Billionaires’ Row—boasts eight bedrooms, a private cinema, and marble floors inlaid with gold leaf. Its sale, brokered by Alpago Properties, reflects a 42.5% value surge since 2021, driven by global demand for Dubai’s tax-free luxury. Indian tycoon Mukesh Ambani’s AED 293 million purchase for his son Anant underscores the frond’s allure for the ultra-rich.
These villas are engineered for exclusivity. Gated communities with 24-hour security ensure privacy, while private beaches and underground parking for six cars cater to lifestyles of seamless opulence. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Arabian Gulf and Burj Khalifa, blending indoor splendor with Dubai’s iconic skyline. Yet, their beauty lies in ambition: Dubai’s vision to rival global capitals. In 2024, 21 Palm Jumeirah properties sold above AED 30 million, outpacing Manhattan’s prime market, where similar homes fetch $80 million but lack Dubai’s tax advantages.
These mansions are more than homes—they’re declarations of a city sculpting its place among the world’s elite, where gold meets glass and desert meets sea.
In Dubai, where extravagance is a way of life, the thundering hooves of polo ponies at Desert Palm Resort offer a rare blend of sport and splendor. Tucked amid lush green fields—an oasis in the desert—this retreat draws the emirate’s high society to its sun-dappled polo matches, where private cabanas, vintage champagne, and royal tradition weave a tapestry of camaraderie. Here, among the clink of flutes and the roar of the crowd, Dubai’s elite find a timeless elegance that binds sheikhs to global tycoons.
Desert Palm, a 160-hectare estate just 20 minutes from Dubai’s glittering skyline, hosts four polo fields, a rarity in a region where sand typically reigns. Since its founding in 2008, the resort has become a high-society haven, its season from October to April drawing Emirati royals, European aristocrats, and Asian billionaires. A single match, with tickets starting at AED 500 and private cabanas fetching AED 5,000, transforms the grounds into a parade of bespoke suits and wide-brimmed hats, evoking Ascot in the desert.
Polo, rooted in Persian royal courts 2,500 years ago, resonates deeply in the UAE, where equestrian heritage runs as strong as Bedouin bloodlines. Desert Palm’s events, like the annual Gold Cup, see teams backed by patrons—often high-net-worth Emiratis—compete with Argentine pros, their mallets flashing under azure skies. Spectators, sipping Taittinger Brut from chilled flutes, cheer from shaded terraces, their conversations spanning deals in crypto and art. The sport’s intimacy—only 300 seats line the main field—fosters bonds among Dubai’s wealthiest, a microcosm of the city’s global allure.
The beauty of Desert Palm lies not just in its manicured lawns but in its curated exclusivity. Cabanas, draped in cream linens, offer caviar canapés and views of galloping steeds, while the resort’s Samana Spa tempts with post-match rose-infused massages at AED 800. The resort’s 38 suites, starting at AED 2,000 per night, often host visiting dignitaries, cementing its role as a high-society nexus.
Still, as the sun sets over Desert Palm, casting golden hues on players and patrons alike, the scene is undeniably beautiful. Polo here is more than a game—it’s a ritual where Dubai’s elite share laughter and ambition. In the gallop of hooves and the pop of corks, the emirate’s high society finds a fleeting, perfect harmony, a testament to a city that turns desert dreams into equestrian elegance.
In Dubai, where innovation defies limits, The Floating Venice by Kleindienst Group is redefining luxury real estate. Part of The Heart of Europe project within the World Islands, this AED 2.5 billion ($680 million) resort, launched in 2025, offers 414 cabins across four decks, including underwater suites, inspired by Venice’s canals. As Dubai’s property market surges—45,000 new units in 2024, 50,000 more expected in 2025—floating communities captivate wealthy buyers seeking exclusivity.
Located 4 kilometers offshore, The Floating Venice features gondolas, 24 acrylic-bottomed pools, and a 400,000-square-foot coral reef nursery. With underwater lobbies and submerged restaurants, it targets ultra-wealthy buyers, with suites starting at AED 3 million ($817,000). The broader Heart of Europe, including Floating Seahorse Villas now valued at AED 20 million, draws investors from Saudi Arabia (40%) and the UAE (28%). Dubai’s real estate boom, with $5.44 billion in Q1 2024 transactions, fuels demand, bolstered by dual licensing as vessels and villas for asset flexibility.
As Dubai’s 18.7 million tourists in 2024 flock to its shores, The Floating Venice epitomizes the emirate’s bold vision.
Photo credits: The Heart Of Europe.
Alexander Agafiev Macambira
Alexander Agafiev Macambira is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.
When Atlantis The Royal opened in early 2023, it was heralded as a game-changer for Dubai’s hospitality sector — not just for its scale, but for its bold architectural statement and unmatched amenities. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, the hotel’s futuristic structure of interlocking blocks rising 43 stories along Palm Jumeirah’s crescent has become an instant icon.
The mega-resort features 795 rooms, suites, and signature penthouses, many with private infinity pools and expansive terraces. Interiors, created by GA Design, blend contemporary minimalism with high-gloss glamour, incorporating elements of fire, water, and air — themes central to the property’s concept.
Culinary offerings are staggering. Atlantis The Royal is home to 17 restaurants and bars, including establishments by celebrity chefs like Heston Blumenthal, Gastón Acurio, Ariana Bundy, and José Andrés. The signature venue, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, brings the acclaimed British chef’s experimental gastronomy to the Middle East for the first time. Cloud 22, the rooftop infinity pool and lounge, has become a social hotspot with panoramic views of the Dubai skyline and The Palm.
The AWAKEN Wellness Center spans multiple levels, offering personalized treatments, a cutting-edge fitness center, and a wellness program emphasizing holistic health. Guests also enjoy access to the resort’s private beach, multiple pools, and exclusive retail boutiques.
Starting at approximately AED 2,700 per night, Atlantis The Royal caters to affluent travelers seeking high-impact design, exceptional dining, and a lavish lifestyle experience. Positioned as the “ultra-luxury” sister property to Atlantis The Palm, it has quickly redefined expectations of grandeur in a city known for its bold hospitality offerings.
When W Dubai – The Palm opened its doors in late 2021, it injected a bold new vibrancy into Dubai’s luxury hospitality scene. Part of Marriott International’s W Hotels brand — known globally for its fashion-forward, energetic ethos — the property was designed to redefine what a beachside escape on the Palm Jumeirah could be: daring, dynamic, and delightfully unconventional.
Strategically located on the western crescent of Palm Jumeirah, the 350-room hotel is immediately striking with its avant-garde architecture, featuring geometric patterns, sleek lines, and glass facades that reflect the Arabian Gulf’s ever-changing hues. Inside, the design narrative continues with eclectic interiors that combine vivid colors, contemporary art installations, and playful design elements inspired by local culture and international trends. The lobby — or “W Living Room” as branded by W Hotels — serves as a vibrant social hub, often energized by curated DJ performances and artistic pop-ups, capturing the spirit of Dubai’s cosmopolitan crowd.
At the heart of the hotel’s appeal is its signature “Whatever/Whenever” service, a hallmark of the W brand, offering guests personalized experiences on demand — whether that means arranging a private yacht cruise, securing last-minute reservations at Dubai’s trendiest restaurants, or organizing spontaneous celebrations.
The culinary offerings at W Dubai – The Palm are as bold and diverse as the hotel itself. The Kitchen Table serves as the all-day dining venue, presenting an eclectic mix of international flavors with a focus on interactive dining and vibrant presentation. Meanwhile, Kaito, a Japanese izakaya, has quickly become a destination in its own right. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Tetsuya Wakuda, Kaito offers a refined yet playful take on Japanese street food, paired with inventive cocktails and an atmosphere that blends Tokyo nightlife with Dubai’s beachfront cool.
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the AWAY Spa offers a fresh take on wellness. Spanning multiple treatment rooms, the spa features an array of signature therapies that blend contemporary urban wellness trends with traditional practices. Treatments such as detoxifying massages, revitalizing facials, and customized body therapies are paired with a beauty bar and a social spa lounge — emphasizing wellness as a holistic and social experience. The hotel also boasts a state-of-the-art fitness center, FIT, and an outdoor WET Deck pool area, which doubles as a vibrant daytime party venue complete with resident DJs, private cabanas, and crafted beverages.
Beyond leisure, W Dubai – The Palm caters to a growing demand for luxury with a contemporary, energetic twist. It regularly hosts high-profile events, fashion launches, and music performances, positioning itself as a nexus for Dubai’s trendsetters, creatives, and global jet-setters.
Nightly rates at W Dubai – The Palm typically start around AED 1,900, reflecting its positioning as a premium lifestyle destination for travelers seeking more than just a traditional beach resort. With its bold design, immersive social scene, and innovative culinary concepts, the hotel appeals particularly to younger travelers and style-conscious guests drawn to the W brand’s unique fusion of luxury and laid-back attitude.
In a city known for its glittering five-star offerings, W Dubai – The Palm stands out by delivering an experience that feels both exclusive and refreshingly unpretentious — a place where high design meets high energy on the golden sands of Dubai’s most famous man-made island.
Opened in late 2023, the Bulgari Hotel Dubai represents the illustrious Italian luxury brand’s first venture into a city-center location within the Middle East. Nestled in the vibrant Dubai Design District (d3) — a hub celebrated for its creative industries, design innovation, and artistic expression — this hotel elevates urban sophistication with a distinct Bulgari flair, perfectly merging the brand’s heritage of fine jewelry with refined hospitality.
Designed by renowned Italian architects Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, the hotel’s architecture and interiors are a study in subtle opulence. From the moment guests enter, the atmosphere reflects Bulgari’s legendary craftsmanship, where every detail — from the rich materials and custom furnishings to the delicate lighting and bespoke finishes — is curated to evoke understated elegance. The design pays homage to the brand’s jewelry legacy, seamlessly translating the precision and artistry of fine jewels into spatial experience.
The hotel comprises 101 rooms and suites, each offering spacious layouts and sophisticated décor that blend modern comfort with timeless Italian style. Large windows frame sweeping views of the Dubai skyline, while interiors incorporate a palette of soft neutrals, warm woods, and tactile textures. Technology is seamlessly integrated to enhance guest convenience without detracting from the aesthetic harmony.
One of the property’s crowning features is its rooftop pool and bar, perched atop the building to offer panoramic vistas of the city’s iconic skyline. This elevated oasis provides a chic retreat where guests can unwind with expertly crafted cocktails or simply soak in the urban panorama by day or night. The ambiance is both exclusive and inviting, embodying a perfect balance of social vibrancy and intimate relaxation.
Culinary excellence is a cornerstone of the Bulgari Hotel Dubai experience. The signature restaurant, Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, bears the imprint of its Michelin-starred namesake chef, celebrated for his innovative take on modern Italian cuisine. The menu highlights refined flavors and seasonal ingredients, blending traditional recipes with contemporary techniques. The setting is sleek and elegant, offering a dining experience that complements the hotel’s sophisticated ethos.
Located in d3, the hotel’s surroundings are as much a part of its appeal as the property itself. Dubai Design District is a flourishing neighborhood where art galleries, design studios, and creative enterprises thrive. This vibrant environment draws a cosmopolitan clientele of art lovers, designers, and trendsetters, making the Bulgari Hotel Dubai a natural haven for those seeking refined luxury intertwined with cultural and creative exploration.
Rooms at Bulgari Hotel Dubai start at approximately AED 4,700 per night, reflecting its positioning as one of Dubai’s most exclusive urban retreats. Guests appreciate the combination of impeccable craftsmanship, personalized service, and prime location, which together create an experience of sophisticated glamour distinct from the resort-style properties commonly found elsewhere in the city.
In a landscape of rapidly evolving luxury hospitality, Bulgari Hotel Dubai stands out by merging the heritage of a storied Italian maison with the dynamic pulse of Dubai’s creative scene — a sanctuary for discerning travelers who seek both artistry and elegance at the heart of the metropolis.
Since its debut in late 2014, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm has epitomized classic luxury amid the modern allure of Palm Jumeirah’s eastern crescent. As part of the globally recognized St. Regis brand, the hotel seamlessly combines timeless design elements with contemporary comforts, offering a refined sanctuary where old-world elegance meets the vibrant energy of Dubai.
The property comprises 294 exquisitely appointed rooms and suites, each spaciously designed to provide an atmosphere of serene sophistication. Interiors reflect the brand’s signature style, blending rich fabrics, polished woods, and subtle Art Deco motifs. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning views of the Arabian Gulf or the iconic Palm itself, inviting natural light to flood the spaces. Among its signature offerings is the renowned St. Regis Butler Service, an exclusive touch that elevates the guest experience by anticipating every need, from unpacking luggage to personalized dining requests and tailored excursions.
Culinary options at The St. Regis Dubai are a highlight, embodying both global finesse and regional flavors. The hotel is home to La Petite Maison, an acclaimed French Mediterranean restaurant that has garnered acclaim for its use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and vibrant, elegant dishes inspired by the coastal regions of France and Italy. The setting is intimate yet refined, ideal for romantic dinners or sophisticated gatherings. Meanwhile, The St. Regis Bar offers a chic, inviting space for craft cocktails and socializing, with a curated menu that showcases mixology artistry against a backdrop of luxurious decor and plush seating.
Wellness and relaxation are central to the resort’s appeal. The expansive Iridium Spa, spanning some 2,000 square meters, offers a comprehensive menu of indulgent treatments designed to revitalize the body and mind. From traditional massages and signature facials to holistic therapies and wellness rituals, the spa provides an immersive experience tailored to individual needs. The facility’s design fosters tranquility, featuring private treatment rooms, steam rooms, and a dedicated fitness center. Adjacent to the spa, the rooftop infinity pool offers panoramic views over the Gulf, creating an idyllic setting for both exercise and leisure.
The hotel’s private beach further enhances its status as a premier destination for those seeking exclusivity and luxury by the sea. With attentive service and well-appointed sun loungers, guests can enjoy peaceful moments overlooking the turquoise waters or partake in water sports offered by the resort.
Strategically located just 30 minutes from Dubai International Airport and within easy reach of Dubai’s commercial and entertainment hubs, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm attracts discerning travelers from around the world. It is particularly favored by guests who appreciate a blend of classic hospitality with modern luxury, whether visiting for business or leisure.
Rooms typically start from AED 1,800 per night, reflecting the property’s commitment to offering exceptional value for an experience steeped in tradition and impeccable service. In a city defined by rapid innovation and opulence, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm stands out as a beacon of timeless elegance and personalized care.
Since opening in 2016, Jumeirah Al Naseem has swiftly become a standout within the sprawling Madinat Jumeirahresort complex, a property often described as a city within a city on Dubai’s coastline. As the newest jewel in this expansive collection of hotels, Al Naseem embraces a fresh, contemporary coastal design that balances modern luxury with a nod to the region’s rich maritime heritage.
With 430 rooms and suites, the hotel offers a spacious yet intimate retreat characterized by sleek interiors, natural materials, and airy layouts that flood spaces with light. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of lush tropical gardens or the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf. The architecture and décor blend modern minimalism with subtle Middle Eastern motifs, creating a calming ambiance that invites relaxation and indulgence.
One of the hotel’s defining features is its direct access to a pristine private beach, stretching over a kilometer along Dubai’s glittering shoreline. Guests here find themselves steps away from soft sands and calm waters, with attentive beachside service offering everything from refreshing beverages to water sports equipment. Whether lounging on sunbeds or taking a dip in the sea, the beach experience here is a quiet, sophisticated escape from the city’s hustle.
The dining scene at Jumeirah Al Naseem is equally varied and compelling. Among its standout venues is Rockfish, renowned for its fresh seafood offerings and spectacular views overlooking the resort’s network of waterways. The menu, crafted by skilled chefs, features sustainable fish and shellfish dishes prepared with Mediterranean influences, pairing perfectly with the serene water vistas. Meanwhile, guests can savor the tastes of Greece at Shimmers, a beloved beachfront restaurant within Madinat Jumeirah known for its vibrant atmosphere, authentic Greek flavors, and picturesque setting on the water’s edge.
Beyond dining, wellness takes center stage at the Talise Spa, a sanctuary offering cutting-edge treatments designed to rejuvenate body and mind. Situated in peaceful surroundings, the spa features separate facilities for men and women, with an extensive menu that includes traditional hammams, massages, facials, and holistic therapies. The spa experience is elevated by expert therapists and luxurious products, many incorporating indigenous ingredients, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to blending cultural heritage with modern wellness trends.
Families and couples alike find Jumeirah Al Naseem an appealing destination. The resort caters to all ages with thoughtfully designed amenities: children enjoy tailored activities and dedicated kids’ clubs, while couples appreciate the romantic settings for sunsets and beach strolls. The hotel’s vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite for those seeking both energy and tranquility within a single stay.
Another unique advantage of Al Naseem’s location is its immediate proximity to the traditional souks, waterways, and markets of Madinat Jumeirah. This allows guests to explore the resort’s authentic Arabian charm, wandering through narrow alleyways filled with artisanal shops, vibrant cafes, and historic architecture that contrast with the hotel’s modern luxury. This blend of old and new is quintessential Dubai—where tradition and innovation coexist seamlessly.
Nightly rates at Jumeirah Al Naseem typically begin at AED 1,600, positioning it as a compelling option for discerning travelers who desire sophisticated style, access to pristine beachfront, and immersion in the cultural tapestry of Dubai’s most iconic resort complex.
For those seeking a contemporary coastal haven without sacrificing cultural richness or family-friendly amenities, Jumeirah Al Naseem stands as a consummate choice—a modern luxury escape wrapped in the timeless allure of the Arabian Gulf.
Since its grand opening in 2010, Raffles Dubai has stood as one of the city’s most distinctive architectural landmarks, instantly recognizable by its striking pyramid silhouette that rises prominently in the Garhoud district, just minutes from Dubai International Airport. This imposing design draws clear inspiration from ancient Egyptian architecture, a rare and bold aesthetic choice in a city known for its futuristic skyscrapers. The pyramid shape not only creates a unique presence on the skyline but also provides an intimate, inward-focused atmosphere that distinguishes the hotel from the more sprawling resorts and towers around Dubai.
Inside, the hotel is a lavish celebration of Arabian heritage and opulence. The 248 rooms and suites are richly appointed with sumptuous fabrics, intricate patterns, and vibrant hues that evoke the region’s cultural tapestry. From the handwoven carpets to the hand-crafted furnishings, each detail speaks to a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern luxury. The spacious accommodations offer sweeping views of the city or the nearby Dubai Creek, providing a serene sanctuary amid the urban energy just outside.
Dining at Raffles Dubai is an experience in itself, where guests are invited to embark on a global culinary journey. The Ting Irie restaurant infuses elevated Caribbean flavors with local ingredients, creating a menu that is both adventurous and comforting. The atmosphere, lively yet sophisticated, features vibrant music and tropical décor that transport diners to an island escape. For those craving European refinement, La Baie presents exquisite French Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting, with dishes crafted from seasonal, locally sourced produce and expertly paired wines.
The hotel’s wellness offerings are equally impressive. The expansive spa, one of the largest in Dubai, boasts over 15 treatment rooms, including private suites for couples and VIP guests. Its signature rituals draw inspiration from a blend of Asian and Middle Eastern healing traditions, incorporating indigenous ingredients and age-old techniques designed to restore balance and rejuvenate body and mind. Guests can indulge in aromatic massages, holistic facials, and bespoke therapies that are tailored to individual needs.
Raffles Dubai’s location is another of its many assets. Nestled near major transport hubs and commercial districts, it appeals to both business travelers seeking proximity to Dubai’s bustling economic centers and tourists desiring a luxurious retreat within reach of the city’s attractions. Despite its central position, the hotel’s design and service create a calm oasis, where guests can escape the city’s pace without sacrificing convenience.
Rooms at Raffles Dubai typically start near AED 1,200 per night, offering a compelling value for travelers who seek grand architecture, cultural richness, and refined luxury in one package. Whether arriving for business or leisure, guests at Raffles Dubai are enveloped in a world where history and modernity coexist seamlessly — a true Arabian palace in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Since opening its doors in late 2017, the Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah has become synonymous with refined luxury on Dubai’s world-famous man-made island. Situated on the Palm’s east crescent, this 319-room resort blends the glamour of 1920s Art Deco with contemporary Arabian touches, creating an elegant retreat that feels both grand and intimately inviting.
The hotel’s design captures a delicate balance: its soaring lobby and lush gardens evoke the romance of a bygone era, while the sleek lines and muted tones of the interiors hint at modern sophistication. Guests arriving here are greeted with an understated opulence that extends from the spacious rooms—each outfitted with plush furnishings and high-end amenities—to the sweeping private beach that curves gently along the shoreline.
Culinary offerings here reflect the hotel’s commitment to excellence. Al Nafoorah, the signature Lebanese restaurant, serves authentic Levantine dishes in a setting that is both warm and elegant, while Social by Heinz Beck, overseen by the three-Michelin-starred chef, invites guests on a contemporary Mediterranean journey. Each plate feels carefully crafted to satisfy both the eye and the palate.
Beyond its dining and design, the Waldorf Astoria offers a breadth of activities that cater to all kinds of travelers. Occupying such a magnificent location on Palm Jumeirah means guests have ready access to a private beach where they can soak up the sun in seclusion. For the more active, the resort features tennis courts, fishing excursions, and parasailing adventures that showcase the Arabian Gulf’s stunning vistas from above.
Families are well-catered for as well. While adults relax by the pool or indulge in spa treatments, younger guests can be safely entertained at Coco’s Kids Club, where supervised games and activities ensure a fun, engaging experience. And as day turns into night, visitors can explore Dubai’s renowned nightlife by venturing out to nearby destination bars and restaurants, all within easy reach.
The hotel’s Guerlain Spa is a sanctuary unto itself. With 12 treatment rooms and two private Couples Suites, it offers an extensive menu of luxurious therapies designed to restore balance and wellbeing. Drawing upon the famed French skincare brand’s expertise, the spa combines cutting-edge techniques with soothing ambiance to provide a deeply rejuvenating experience.
Rooms here start at approximately AED 1,900 per night, reflecting the property’s position as a top-tier luxury destination. Yet the Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah manages to avoid the excess often associated with Dubai’s hospitality scene, opting instead for a quiet confidence and timeless elegance. It is a place where tradition and modernity coexist, offering guests a chance to experience the best of both worlds on one of the world’s most spectacular waterfronts.
Atop the Four Seasons Hotel DIFC, Luna has carved a distinctive place in Dubai’s vibrant dining scene. Since its debut as a rooftop destination, Luna has evolved into a 2025 hotspot for Dubai’s elite, combining high-end gastronomy with an atmosphere defined by celestial allure and panoramic city views.
Luna’s setting is as much a part of its identity as its cuisine. The starlit terrace, positioned to showcase the glittering towers of the DIFC, offers a vantage point that merges the urban energy of Dubai’s financial heart with a rooftop ambiance designed for refined leisure. This visual contrast — sleek cityscape against a night sky — has made Luna a striking backdrop for evening gatherings and social occasions alike.
The culinary vision at Luna is led by Chef Marco Rossi, whose menu emphasizes bold Mediterranean flavors balanced with luxurious touches. Signature offerings include caviar-crusted langoustines and truffle risotto, each dish crafted with a focus on premium ingredients and sophisticated presentation. The carefully selected wine pairings, highlighted by rare Italian Barolos, underscore the restaurant’s dedication to creating a complete dining experience that speaks to both taste and occasion.
Following its 2025 menu overhaul, Luna has seen a tangible rise in interest. According to Fact Magazines, the restaurant reported a 20% increase in reservations, a surge attributed in part to its exclusive wine-pairing events that have resonated with Dubai’s high-profile clientele seeking curated culinary encounters.
Luna’s unique fusion of Mediterranean flavors and cosmic ambiance positions it at the forefront of Dubai’s luxury dining scene — a place where gastronomy, setting, and atmosphere intertwine. The rooftop’s growing reputation reflects a broader trend in the city: an appetite for experiences that combine world-class cuisine with distinctive environments that transform a meal into a memorable occasion.
At Luna, dining transcends tradition, offering guests an elevated encounter that captures the essence of Dubai’s evolving culinary narrative — one that celebrates both global flavors and the city’s own flair for sophisticated indulgence.
In 2025, Zuma Dubai, long established as a pillar of the city’s dining landscape, unveiled its newly revamped rooftop at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) - reaffirming its place among Dubai’s most iconic destinations for contemporary Japanese cuisine.
Perched above the heart of Dubai’s financial hub, the rooftop terrace offers sweeping views of the Sheikh Zayed Road skyline. The setting blends Zuma’s signature Japanese aesthetic with the city’s unmistakable sense of glamour. Sleek bamboo interiors set the scene for photographs that capture both the architectural precision of the space and the neon glow of Dubai’s skyline.
The menu reflects Zuma’s commitment to luxury and craftsmanship. The caviar-focused offerings include seared tuna with Oscietra and sushi platters adorned with gold leaf, all carefully paired with rare sakes such as Dassai Beyond. This attention to detail — in both presentation and pairing — has fueled Zuma’s continued appeal among Dubai’s power brokers and culinary enthusiasts.
According to Condé Nast Traveller Middle East, since the rooftop’s relaunch, Zuma has recorded a 25% increase in bookings, a rise credited in part to its exclusive wine-pairing dinners that have become a sought-after experience in the city’s upscale dining circuit.
Zuma’s influence in Dubai extends beyond its rooftop. Recognized repeatedly in the World’s 50 Best Bars listings and achieving a debut at No. 2 on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants MENA, the restaurant remains synonymous with contemporary Japanese dining at the highest level. Located in the heart of DIFC, it offers guests a complete experience — from fine dining to handcrafted cocktails and live music in its vibrant lounge upstairs.
With its renewed rooftop concept, Zuma continues to merge Japanese precision with Dubai’s extravagant ethos, reinforcing its reputation as a destination where elevated cuisine, luxurious surroundings, and high-profile clientele converge in the city’s bustling financial district.
In January 2025, Hanu opened its doors at St. Regis Gardens on Palm Jumeirah, introducing Dubai to a refined expression of Korean culinary artistry in a rooftop setting that frames the Burj Al Arab. From its first weeks, Hanu established itself as a standout destination on the city’s competitive dining scene — a place where tradition meets indulgence high above the Dubai skyline.
At the heart of Hanu’s kitchen is Chef Kyung Soo Moon, whose training in Seoul’s finest kitchens informs a menu that balances authenticity with modern luxury. Signature dishes such as caviar-topped galbi tartare and kimchi-infused lobster headline a selection designed to pair with both rare sojus and Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
The restaurant’s understated aesthetic enhances its culinary focus. A minimalist terrace adorned with bamboo accentsopens to sweeping views of Dubai, the skyline shimmering beyond — a setting that has become a natural backdrop for photographs since opening.
Hanu’s launch quickly captured the attention of the city’s dining elite. Hanu welcomed 8,000 diners within its first two months, a testament to its swift rise in popularity. The restaurant’s exclusive caviar tasting menu, offered nightly, became an immediate success, selling out consistently since its debut.
Hanu’s fusion of Korean tradition with the luxuries of Dubai’s dining culture reflects the city’s role as a global stage for elevated cuisine. Its rapid acclaim underscores a broader trend: in Dubai, culinary experiences are as much about artistry and heritage as they are about spectacle and exclusivity.
With its rooftop perch, dedicated chef, and a menu that draws both from Korea’s deep-rooted flavors and Dubai’s appetite for refined indulgence, Hanu stands as a new beacon in the city’s evolving gastronomic landscape — a testament to how Dubai continues to elevate world cuisines to new heights.
