Like a superyacht cutting through calm seas, Dubai’s most talked-about new hotel glides with quiet power and offers personalised experiences

There are hotel openings, and then there are arrivals that feel almost cinematic in how quietly and confidently they take over the landscape. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab falls into the latter category. Set along the beachfront with uninterrupted views of the Burj Al Arab, the luxury property doesn’t try to compete with its famous neighbour but instead draws the eye with fluid, yacht-inspired curves. The architecture uses advanced software to create double-curved forms that mirror the motion of water, while the interiors carry that narrative through tactile details like 3D-printed ceramic walls and mashrabiya-framed spaces.

Designed by Shaun Killa, the architect behind the Museum of the Future and Dubai Opera, the hotel takes its shape from the sleek design of a superyacht, with flowing curves that appear to glide across the coastline. From the entrance archway that perfectly frames the Burj Al Arab to the 3,000-tonne sculptural canopy, the experience is immersive rather than overwhelming, with the building revealing itself at every step.

Accomodation

Though the property spans over 300 rooms, 86 suites and 82 residences, it’s designed to feel intimate, with layered scents, quiet lobby corners and thoughtful landscaping. We checked into the Ocean Deluxe Suite and were met with one of the best views in the city: the Burj Al Arab sitting just off centre, framed by the terrace and a wide stretch of sea. The terrace is large enough to actually use. We spent the morning there with coffee, watching the light shift over the water, and evenings letting the breeze roll in off the Gulf.

Inside, the suite is all soft edges and clean lines with a calming palette of cream, sand, and pale stone, broken up by dark wood, bronze details, and the occasional splash of ocean blue. The layout flows naturally, beginning with a spacious living area featuring a deep, cushioned sofa, dining table, and a minibar thoughtfully stocked with local treats. There’s also 24/7 butler assistance available, adding to the overall comfort. The separate bedroom does not feel boxed in and includes a spacious walk-in wardrobe perfect for unpacking and organising, a Dyson hairdryer, and a well-appointed work desk.

Unlike typical accommodation, the suite features two bathrooms. One is a full marble bathroom with a rain shower, soaking tub, and double vanity, and the other is a guest bathroom for added convenience. The technology throughout is smart but subtle, with lights and curtains that are touch-controlled and Bang & Olufsen speakers for those looking to tune into their very own playlist.

Culinary highlights

Marsa Al Arab Marina and the hotel offer a diverse range of waterfront and standalone restaurants featuring cuisines from contemporary Japanese and Emirati to Grecian, Venetian, Mediterranean, pan-Asian, steakhouse, and Indian fine dining.

We visited the Commodore Club at The Residence for lunch ahead of check-in. The space is calm with curved booths and soft lighting. Cream tones and gold accents are balanced by natural light from the large windows, and the overall feel is laid-back. The menu focuses on simple, comfort dishes. The Prawns piri piri are served in a spiced tomato sauce with crisp garlic and toasted bread, bold in flavour without being too heavy. The Chicken corn salad is light and balanced, with creamy avocado, sweet corn, pickled onion and a sharp white balsamic dressing. The Goat cheese salad is richer, with caramelised walnuts and warm toast topped with tangy cheese. For mains, the Octopus and calamari paella arrives with saffron rice, coriander and a spoonful of aioli that adds just enough sharpness. The Parmigiana is layered with soft slices of eggplant, baked with tomato and cheese until the edges start to brown. We ended with a Tiramisu latte served alongside ladyfingers, plus a Matcha version that was not too sweet and provided a clean finish to the meal.

After a swim at the Illiana Pool Club, we headed off to dinner at Illiana, where the space follows a soft palette with light woods, woven chairs and neutral tones that create a calm setting. The open kitchen adds quiet energy, with chefs moving steadily in the background. We began with the Spinach pie salad, a mix of crisp phyllo, feta, lemon and herbs. The textures were sharp and fresh, and the saltiness of the cheese balanced the brightness of the dressing. The Grilled octopus was tender and plated with smooth fava cream and a sweet onion chutney. The Moussaka came hot, with layers of aubergine, minced meat and potato that was a rich but satisfying end to our starters.

The main was the Beef gyros, carved tableside and served with soft pita, tomato, onion and a thick, chilled tzatziki. For dessert, we shared the Bougatsa, a warm semolina custard wrapped in crisp phyllo and dusted with cinnamon. Just the right amount of sweetness to close the evening.

Before calling it a night, we stopped in at Rialto Bar, a space that feels tucked away but worth seeking out. With soft lighting, vintage-inspired finishes and a low soundtrack in the background, the setting is intimate without feeling too formal. There’s a nod to 1950s Italy in the details, from the glassware to the colour palette, making it a fitting spot for a pre-dinner drink or a late-night pause. We ordered the Balanzone, a bright, fizzy mix of Lyre’s Italian Spritz, peach tea and balsamic that had a sharp but refreshing finish. The Jardinara leaned more citrusy, with lemon, kumquat and a hint of toasted almond from the orzata. Both were served cold and carefully prepared. On the side, we shared a small plate of Pecorino al tartufo, Salame milano and green olives, which paired well with the drinks without overshadowing them.

Breakfast at The Fore is, quite simply, one for the books. However you like your mornings – whether light, indulgent or somewhere in between – this is a place that does it all without slipping into the usual all-day dining routine. Instead, The Fore brings together four distinct restaurants on the property and turns them into a single, cohesive breakfast experience. Each morning, Umi Kei, Madame Li, Mirabelle and The Bombay Club come together through hidden panels and clever design to form an integrated venue that still retains touches of each restaurant’s identity. The à la carte menu offers a mix of classics and signatures including Royal Benedict, Eggs Florentine, Scrambled eggs with black truffle and Lobster Benedict. The Umi Kei station was a favourite, with Dashimaki egg roll, Tatsuta chicken and other traditional Japanese breakfast plates. At The Bombay Club, the Dal kachori was crisp and spiced just right, paired with a mint chutney, while fresh South Indian staples included soft idiyappam and a spiced chicken stew. We also shared a platter of croissants and pain suisse, both baked fresh and served warm. There’s also a space dedicated to lighter options, with fresh fruit, granola and six types of iced tea.

Thanks to a late check-out, we made one last stop at Rialto. We started with the Fiori di zucchina farciti showcasing crisp zucchini flowers filled with ricotta and smoked scamorza, followed by the Carpaccio al pomodoro e burrata fritta, where soft burrata was beautifully encased in a peeled tomato that broke open to a creamy centre. For mains, we shared the Risotto all’ossobuco e zafferano, rich with saffron and bone marrow, cooked to a silky finish. We ended with a classic Tiramisu, served tableside from a wide bowl and scooped generously onto the plate.

Facilities

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab presents an array of wellness and leisure experiences set amid verdant palm trees and tranquil water vistas. The resort features five stunning pools, including expansive outdoor pools surrounded by greenery and an exclusive suite pool, offering guests a variety of settings to relax and unwind.

Central to the wellness offering is the Talise Spa. During my visit, I tried the 90-minute Grounding Ritual, which began with picking a crystal and an affirmation card. This continued with a full-body massage then moved into a calming facial massage. Little touches like mini succulent bowls under the bed and a rose quartz eye mask made it feel especially soothing from start to finish. Plus, the views of the Burj Al Arab and the Arabian Gulf are the perfect backdrop to sip on tea and soak it all in after a massage.

Talise Fitness rounds out the spa experience with 24/7 access to personalised training sessions, a variety of fitness classes, and top-of-the-line Technogym equipment. Whether you’re into Pilates, kickboxing, or just want to swim laps in the 22-metre pool, there’s something to support your health and recovery.

For families, the dedicated Family Club welcomes kids aged three to ten with a fun experience. Located near the resort pool, it offers activities to spark creativity and encourage quality family time.

Book now

AED3,820 per night for the Ocean Deluxe Suite. Visit jumeirah.com/en/stay/dubai/jumeirah-marsa-al-arab.