If you live in Dubai and are looking for a place for a staycation in Dubai, the Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah is definitely an option to check out. One of its coolest features is the beachside location on the crescent of the palm just far enough away from the hustle of the city but close enoug to get there in a blink.
Relaxed luxury and resort living
Waldorf Astoria is the top notch brand of the Hilton group and offers two properties in Dubai, one located in the financial district and the other being a resort located on Palm Jumeirah, both operated by Habtoor. It takes you roughly 40 minutes to get there from Downtown Dubai and the moment you leave your car, you feel the resort vibe. The WA is surrounded by the ocean on both sides and offers Palm view or skyline view rooms. We got an upgrade to a palm view room which gives you views torwards the iconic Atlantis hotel but I think the skyline view which the Burj Al Arab sail is just as good. We had to wait a little for the check-in but were arriving early. Although being Hilton Diamond member I did not experience any special treatment but a professional, swift procedure which I liked.
Room with a view
My only suggestion for the room choice is to avoid the partial sea view rooms as the views go torwards a power facility which is a shame as both palm and skyline views give you a remote feeling instantly. Our Palm View King room feels pretty large evenr for Dubai standsrds and has a wonderful marble bathroom with double sink, shower and baththub (including a TV), comfy towels and wonderful Ferragamo amenities. Thanks to the window facing the room you can also enjoy some daylight. The king size bed is wonderful and the room feels bright and impeccably clean. Water and coffee are provided and the chairs on your private balcony allow you to enjoy the sunrise from the comfort of your room. Although this category is facing the (lagoon) pool, it was not too noisy.
Pool, beach, repeat
The Waldorf Astoria Dubai features two pools, one lagoon-styled, family oriented pool in front of the beach and one (supposedly) adult-only pool. Plenty of sun loungers are available and you can easily access the beach from the pool and vice versa. During our stay, it did not feel crowded. Poolside service is done via your mobile where you can conveniently choose and order your poolside treats such as the lovely Pina Colada which I’d recommend to try at least once. The beach and ocean access is perfect for kids too as the tide is pretty easy being between the “palm leaves”. Because everything is low rise, you can catch the maximum of sun all day long. The sunsets behind the Atlantis hotel are amazing so A&I spent the afternoons with a glass of wine (during happy hour) at the bar watching the sunset which is an amazing experience. The whole atmosphere is breezy, relaxed but still professional thanks to the wonderful staff taking care of everything.
Food indulgence at your doorstep
I’ve read mixed reviews about the breakfast which I absolutely cannot confirm. The buffet is awesome and offers everything you could wish for. Waffles, omelettes, hot and cold dishes, Asian influences, pastry and fruits, juices and more let you start your day right! Even though the Waldorf Astoria was well booked during our stay, breafkast never felt like a war zone. I enjoyed a table outside and the wonderful staff took good care of us. Breakfast is included for Hilton Diamond members but I would recommend choosing a rate with breakfast for sure. Apart from Mezzerie, the all day dining venue, we had wonderful poolside lunches at the Palm Avenue (try the cobb salad) and a Californian styled candlelight dinner outside below the stars which was magical. Other than that I can recommend LAO for Asian influences with its five star staff that made our evening fun. The next time visiting I definitely want to try Social by Heinz Beck which is said to be one of the top food venues of Dubai. In short, even when spending a long weekend at the WA you don’t have to leave the resort anytime for wonderful lunch and dinner options which are right at your doorstep.
Passport & Palmtree conclusion
The Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah is a getaway from your everyday and I highly recommend it for a Dubai staycation. The location on the crescent of Palm Jumeirah is pretty outside the city but lets you disconnect with just the right amount of remote resort feeling. The whole property is in great condition and the wonderful staff renders a laid-back, luxury experience which lets you relax and disconnect. I am looking forward to my next stay at the Waldorf Astoria Dubai and will update this review accordingly.
Take a look at my recommendations about the best restaurants in Dubai or the best Dubai beach club if you are looking for staycation getaway.
What’s your favourite venue on the Palm? Let me know in the comments!
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