With so many outstanding luxury hotels in Dubai, it’s hard to filter through the sparkling skyline of exclusive establishments. Dubai is known the world over for offering above-and-beyond travel experiences, where luxury is a given. That being said, there is a helping hand to guide travellers’ decisions when the respected Luxury Lifestyle Awards bestow their annual winners with esteemed and well-deserved titles, of which the Meliá Desert Palm Dubai has just won The Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in the UAE, 2020 category. A lush desert escape is the destination of choice for those travellers with an appetite for the finest and most sophisticated experiences.

Set on an immaculate 160-acre polo estate, the Meliá Desert Palm Dubai epitomises elegance and serenity. Only 20 km outside of the Dubai city centre, guests can escape to this contemporary and niche boutique hotel, hidden away from the hustle and bustle of urbanity.

Luxurious Accommodation Options

The Meliá Desert Palm Dubai offers a diverse range of accommodation options within their limited and intimate capacity, which include villas, suites, and rooms meticulously styled with modern and natural features. Each accommodation type has been maximised to take advantage of the incredible lush outdoor scenery and views, creating a profound sense of relaxation close to nature. King-size and Emperor beds, oversized bathtubs, rain showers, skylights, sunken bedrooms, temperature-controlled private swimming pools, and cocoon sofas are some of the standout features amongst the various room categories. Equine lovers can look forward to one-on-one horse riding or polo lessons with seasoned professional trainers.

Exceptional Dining Experiences

Dining is a highlight at the Meliá Desert Palm Dubai. Guests can indulge their food cravings at Epicure, a brasserie-style, casual poolside eatery. Take your pick from a generous selection of imported specialities, artisan cheeses, charcuterie, pastries, and desserts. Freshly prepared wood-fired pizzas, gourmet sandwiches, sensational salads, and pasta are served in style either alfresco by the glittering infinity pool or indoors. This is an ideal venue for chilled time soaking up the sunshine and immersing in the blue waters—relaxation at its best.

For a taste of something different and heartier cuisine, head straight to Rare – Oak Wood Fire Grill, which has a strong focus on expertly chargrilled cuts of meat as well as fresh seafood, paired with globally acclaimed wines from the Wine Spectator cellar. The show kitchen delights avid foodie patrons, where they can also be seated. This contemporary grill gratifies guests on Friday evenings with a Vintage Brunch, complete with grape pairings, Taittinger bubbles, and global influencers.

Signature Bars and Lounges

The Red Bar is a swanky contemporary lounge where polo personalities enjoy socialising. A proud display of polo memorabilia, as well as antique liquors, sets the theme. Enjoy homemade infused spirits, imaginative cocktails, and an extensive single malts cabinet on the beverage menu, plus bar snacks and fine cigars to end off a perfect Arabian day.

Lastly, the Polo Bar overlooks the championship polo field, the ideal spot to watch the games being played between October and April annually. The evening breeze keeps patrons cool under the shaded Jordanian terrace, where fine bubbles, exciting cocktails, and delicious tapas are served fresh.

Thrilling Adventures and Activities

Esteemed guests at the Meliá Desert Palm Dubai are not short of thrilling adventures. Take a vintage Land Rover into the timeless desert sand dunes, where you’ll find Bedouin camps inside a private Royal Retreat to dine under the stars at night, amongst flickering candlelight in true traditional style. Take to the skies in a hot air balloon for an exhilarating view of the vast desert plains. For equestrian enthusiasts, catch the polo games being played in season, ride horseback through the spectacular estate, or take horse riding training from one of the professional riders—a perfect opportunity to learn some new skills in this passionate pursuit. For the less wild side, enjoy cycling or jogging through the sensational property, where one is bound to spot a kingfisher or Indian roller.