Delano Dubai isn’t just a hotel; it’s a feeling. It is the delicate floral aroma wafting through the fabric-draped corridors, the soothing melody of waves lapping against the island’s shoreline, the sweet taste of the ‘apple a day keeps the doctor away’ delivery and the bespoke service that makes you want to stay forever.
Delano made its debut in Miami in 1995 with a game-changing Philippe Starck-designed property that played a pivotal role in shaping the cool South Beach scene. Renowned for its celebrity clientele, vibrant atmosphere and iconic palm-fringed pool, the boutique property redefined the luxury resort experience by seamlessly blending contemporary aesthetics with whimsical charm. A green hedge with a small door at its centre greeted guests at its entrance, paying homage to Alice in Wonderland, whilst billowing drapes gracefully welcomed them inside.
Set on the pristine shores of Bluewaters Island, Delano Dubai faultlessly reimagines the Miami mothership that captivated hearts three decades ago.
Upon passing the driveway’s green hedge and stepping into the lobby, one is greeted by the dazzling vistas of the Arabian Gulf glistening through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Artfully inspired furnishings and flashes of greenery evoke a soothing ambience within the airy space – introducing the property’s effortless sophistication.
The hotel’s dreamy dwellings – of which there are 168 rooms and 83 suites – are designed by a quartet of renowned studios: Elastic Architects, LaBottega, SA Consultants and Y Design. United in their exceptional craftsmanship and scrupulous attention to detail, the interiors showcase ecru oak flooring, bespoke wool rugs, fluted leather headboards and gracefully curved furnishings, all harmonised by a serene neutral palette illuminated by archival photographs of Delano Miami. This exquisite curation creates a haven of understated minimalism. The lavish marble bathrooms, adorned with Byredo amenities in the brand’s signature Gypsy Water fragrance, further enhance the luxurious allure – as do the mini- bars stocked with Humantra hydration supplements and collagen face masks. Most abodes feature private balconies or terraces, presenting breathtaking views of the sea or the pool, while the Breaking Waves suites on the ground level delight with the added luxury of private pools just a stone’s throw from the beach.
The crème de la crème is the sprawling penthouse that occupies the entire seventh floor, boasting five exquisite en-suite bedrooms. This stunning residence features a private elevator entrance, a professional kitchen, staff accommodation and two terraces – one equipped with a 12-seater dining table, a fully stocked bar and unobstructed views over Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah, while the second terrace overlooks the Arabian Gulf, complete with an infinity pool and
a beautiful entertaining area featuring a barbecue and fire pit.
An impressive array of restaurants and bars bestow culinary and mixological brilliance upon Delano Dubai. Among these distinguished establishments, Blue Door, the legendary star-studded hero of Miami’s gastronomic landscape, has been reimagined to present coastal Anatolian cuisine within its romantic garden setting. Meanwhile, Tutto Passa draws inspiration from the enchanting allure and relaxed glamour of the Amalfi Coast, effortlessly transporting the spirit of Italy to the Middle East, complete with roaming Bellini trolleys.
A leisurely stroll along the beach path leads to La Cantine, a lifestyle destination featuring an exclusive adults-only pool, a sports club equipped with a pickleball court and a Mediterranean restaurant where the squid ink risotto is devoured by those in the know. As dusk descends, Rose Bar comes to life; its sultry low lighting, mirrored hallway, opulent red velvet interiors and flamboyant cocktail menu beckon crowds in a manner reminiscent of the iconic South Beach original.
A captivating blend of sophistication and understated elegance means that days at Delano Dubai gently drift by, thanks to its soul-soothing pleasures such as al fresco sound healing and meditation, and a wide choice of plush loungers, cabanas or hammocks to sink into. Despite being moments from the illustrious skyscrapers for which the city is celebrated, the hotel feels like a hidden oasis, representing a truly magnificent addition to Dubai’s flourishing hospitality landscape. One thing is for certain: once you have checked in, you won’t want to check out.
Images courtesy of Delano Dubai
