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United Arab Emirates - hotels and accommodation standards

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TwoContinents

Ewelina Winiarczyk

22 January 2026

Accommodation in the UAE

For years, the United Arab Emirates has been associated with grandeur, luxury, and modernity. For many travelers, it is the perfect place for a vacation full of sunshine, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. However, before you make a reservation, it is worth learning about the accommodation options in this country and what really sets hotels in the United Arab Emirates apart.

Accommodation standards in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Accommodation standards in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are among the highest in the world. Even lower-starred establishments offer a level of service that in Europe is often attributed to luxury hotels. Accommodation in Dubai is primarily modern - designer interiors, excellent infrastructure, and attention to detail visible at every turn.

Accommodation in prestigious districts such as Downtown, with its view of Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina with its modern promenade and yacht marina, and Business Bay, the business heart of the city, are extremely popular in Dubai. It is in these locations that Two Continents offers accommodation, specializing in high-standard apartments, often located in the top parts of the city. The offer includes, among others, apartments in Dubai Marina and luxury apartments with a direct view of the Burj Khalifa, ideal for those who value comfort and space.
Most hotels and apartments offer accommodation with a swimming pool, often located on the roof, from where you can admire the impressive panorama of the city. Free Wi-Fi, a gym, spa, restaurants, and quick access to the center are the absolute standard, both in hotels and apartments offered by reliable accommodation operators.

Accommodation in Abu Dhabi is a bit quieter, more elegant, and focused on a comfortable, relaxing stay. The UAE capital offers hotels located close to major attractions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, as well as seaside promenades on the Persian Gulf. It is an excellent base for both intensive sightseeing and relaxation in a more intimate atmosphere.

The best hotels in the UAE

The best hotels in the UAE are not only prestigious addresses in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, but also properties in other emirates. Ras Al Khaimah is famous for its resorts located between the mountains and the sea, while Umm Al Quwain attracts visitors with its tranquility and intimate atmosphere.
The highest-rated hotels in the United Arab Emirates are distinguished by their excellent location - close to the beach, tourist attractions or the airport. These are often elegant hotels with extensive dining options, private terraces, modern rooms and a wide range of amenities. For many travelers, good reviews from other guests, high standards of service, and ease of booking are also key factors.

Luxury hotels in the United Arab Emirates

Luxury hotels in the United Arab Emirates have been setting global trends in the hotel industry for years, combining modern architecture with Arabian splendor and the highest standards of service. Iconic properties located on The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai's famous artificial island, attract guests from all over the world, offering not only accommodation but a comprehensive luxury experience of the highest standard. Private white beaches, spectacular infinity pools, exclusive wellness areas and restaurants run by Michelin-starred chefs are the absolute norm in this region.

Staying at a five-star hotel in the UAE means access to luxury at every turn - from spacious suites with panoramic terraces, to private villas with swimming pools and butler service, to 24/7 concierge services. Guests can count on complete discretion, individual attention, and interiors refined down to the smallest detail. Luxury in the Emirates also means peace and privacy, combined with spectacular views of the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf.

Among the most prestigious hotels in the United Arab Emirates, it is worth mentioning Atlantis The Royal on Palm Jumeirah - an ultra-modern facility offering apartments with private pools and restaurants run by world-renowned chefs.
Equally impressive is Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, considered a symbol of luxury in Dubai, known for its duplex suites, private Rolls-Royce chauffeurs, and helicopter landing pad.
Lovers of intimate elegance will appreciate One&Only The Palm, a boutique resort offering an intimate atmosphere, a private beach, and one of the best fine dining restaurants in the region. Jumeirah Al Naseem, on the other hand, is the perfect combination of modern design, family comfort, and views of the Burj Al Arab. In Abu Dhabi, the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental deserves special attention - a palatial hotel surrounded by gardens, a symbol of Arabian splendor and luxury on a royal level.

Cheap accommodation in the United Arab Emirates

Contrary to popular belief, cheap accommodation in the United Arab Emirates is readily available, especially for those who plan to explore actively and do not intend to spend all day in luxury resorts. Outside the very center of Dubai and the most prestigious districts of Abu Dhabi, it is easy to find modern hotels and vacation apartments offering a very good standard at a reasonable price.

In districts such as Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Al Barsha, Deira, and the older parts of Dubai, the average price of accommodation is much lower, and the quality of services remains high. These locations are well connected to the rest of the city, often close to metro stations or major roads, making it easy to get around Dubai without having to rent an expensive hotel in the center.
Many properties offer attractive discounts for early bookings, and amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, private bathrooms, gyms, and access to swimming pools are standard. This is an ideal option for people who spend most of their time sightseeing, going on excursions, or shopping, and treat the hotel mainly as a comfortable place to rest.

Examples of popular and affordable hotels in Dubai:

  • Rove Hotels - modern, designer hotels in good locations and offering very good value for money.
  • Premier Inn Dubai (Al Jaddaf, Ibn Battuta Mall, Dubai International Airport) - a proven chain offering high standards, a rooftop swimming pool, and comfortable rooms.
  • Citymax Hotels (Al Barsha, Bur Dubai, Business Bay) - one of the most popular budget options, ideal for tourists.
  • Ibis Dubai (Al Barsha, World Trade Center) - functional, clean hotels at an affordable price, good for short stays.
  • Holiday Inn Express - a comfortable option with breakfast included, particularly attractive for families and business travelers.

Thanks to such accommodation facilities, the United Arab Emirates can also be an attractive destination for travelers on a limited budget, without having to sacrifice comfort and modern amenities.

Beach resorts in the Emirates

Beach resorts are one of the UAE's greatest assets. Located directly on the sea, they offer private access to beaches, extensive gardens, several swimming pools, and a rich entertainment program. The most famous resorts are located in Dubai, on The Palm Jumeirah, in Dubai Marina, and in the northern emirates.
They are an excellent choice for a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a relaxing break. The resorts offer attractions for children, wellness areas, water sports, and restaurants serving cuisines from around the world.

Questions and answers

1. Where can I find the best hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

The best hotels in Dubai are mainly located in prestigious areas such as Downtown Dubai (close to Burj Khalifa and the largest shopping centers), the luxurious The Palm Jumeirah, and the bustling Dubai Marina.

In Abu Dhabi, the highest standard is offered by hotels located on the Corniche seaside promenade, close to museums and cultural attractions, as well as on Yas Island, known for its amusement parks and luxury resorts on the Persian Gulf.

2. What amenities do hotels in Dubai offer?

Hotels in Dubai offer a wide range of amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, modern swimming pools—often with panoramic views, spas, gyms, and restaurants serving cuisine from around the world. Many properties also offer guests access to private beaches, kids' clubs, observation decks, and concierge services to help arrange tours or airport transfers.

3. Is accommodation in the UAE expensive?

Accommodation prices in the UAE can be high, especially in luxury hotels in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, but if you book in advance and choose properties outside the city center, you can find great deals at very competitive rates. There are also apartments and resorts available in the region, which often offer lower average prices than traditional hotels, especially outside the tourist season.