Manzil Downtown

A boutique, intimate feel here makes for a change from Dubai's often large and over-the-top properties. Travelers come for the downtown location -- especially the nearby Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa building (the world's tallest) -- views of this iconic tower are great from restaurant terraces and upgraded rooms. Warm-toned interiors blend modern design with traditional elements. Expect Moorish archways, patterned screens, and geometric motifs that retain Arabian charm, plus contemporary backlighting. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the lobby overlook a charming furnished courtyard, where alfresco dining and hookah pipes are popular. This hotel lacks the extensive features found at competitors, but it's a great pick for those looking to explore nearby Dubai sights. 

The hotel occupies a great spot downtown, and its boulevard location is pedestrian-friendly. Immediate surrounds of shops, supermarkets, and a Starbucks sit in the shadow of the gigantic Dubai Mall, a five-minute walk away, and shopping here is endless. The complex's nightly fountain shows, movie theaters, and aquarium are within a 10-minute walk. It's 18 minutes on foot to reach the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, although taxis are the most popular way to reach farther destinations. Sights within a 15-minute drive (without traffic) include Jumeirah Beach, The World Trade Centre, Dubai International Financial Centre, and other malls -- free shuttles run here and to the beach. Dubai International Airport is a 20-minute drive away.

Contemporary rooms are sleek, with a neutral palette that shines from floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooms are tastefully decorated in fine furnishings with hints of Arabic design, such as headboard murals in Arabic letters and patterned carpet. Reclining seating areas are comfortable, and smoked-glass bathroom panels are edgy, though perhaps lacking in privacy for some. The swish, marble bathrooms have deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, slippers, and robes, plus honey-scented toiletries and hairdryers. 

While street or pool views aren't unpleasant, it's worth the splurge for staggering Burj Khalifa vistas, which upgraded rooms and 517-square-foot (48-square-meter) Suites guarantee. Suites have living rooms, stand-alone tubs, and small, furnished balconies. Inlaid smart TVs with interactive media hubs, minibars, bottled water, kettles for tea- and coffee-making, safes, ironing facilities, free Wi-Fi, and AC come standard. Some add Nespresso machines. Rooms can be fitted with cribs.

Upscale features don't include a spa or kids' club here, but extensive dining is on-site. The outdoor Courtyard Restaurant is a popular spot thanks to its archway-enclosed rattan seating, potted plants, refined food, and hookah pipes. Known for its show kitchens and terrace with Burj Khalifa views, the Boulevard Kitchen serves Middle Eastern and international fare, Friday brunches, and varied buffet breakfasts with homemade pastries, made-to-order eggs, fresh-squeezed juices, tea, and coffee. Under atmospheric black ceilings, the pub-like Nezesaussi Grill is a sports bar doubling up as a steakhouse. Barrels, light woods, and sports-centric wall hangings are laid-back, as are a foosball table and TVs showing sports events.

Though small, the outdoor pool feels swish from palm-flanked terraces with cushioned loungers, umbrellas, and mosaic-tiled outdoor showers. Also on the small side is the gym, which is open 24/7. Guests can use the computers and printer at the lobby business center. Four meeting rooms and a boardroom are on-site, and free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the hotel. Free shuttles to the mall and beach, and free valet parking are offered.