Jumeirah Mina A’ Salam

The Mina A' Salam is one of three hotels located within the magnificent Madinat Jumeirah resort, the other two being the Al Qasr and the Dar al Masyaf. While the Al Qasr hotel is considered to be the more glamorous, Mina A’Salam is more family-orientated, though still luxurious even by Dubai standards. A total makeover in 2015 means its interiors are particularly polished, with Arabian-palace styling that combines geometric pattered tiling with intricately carved wooden paneling and numerous gold accents. Most of the property's vast latticework and elegant carved stone facade overlooks part of the resort's canal network that guests can navigate by boat. Alternatively, golf buggies are available to explore the immaculately tended grounds brimming with tropical flora and overlooking a white-sand beach (with views out to the iconic Burj Al Arab). The atmosphere is opulent, grandiose, and seriously upscale, with a professional level of staffing to match. 

The hotel forms a gateway to the vast and exclusive Madinat Jumeirah resort -- a luxurious and private expanse of waterways, manicured lawns, and a stretch of white-sand beach overlooked by the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel. The resort is geographically central in Dubai and therefore has relatively easy access to most of Dubai's main attractions, such as the Wild Wadi Water Park (with free entry for guests) and Mall of the Emirates -- both within five to 10 minutes' drive. There is also plenty to explore in the resort including the Souk Madinat Jumeirah -- a meticulously recreated ancient Arabian market. Dubai International Airport is around half an hour away by car -- traffic allowing.

The 292 rooms and suites at the Mina A' Salam continue in the palatial Middle-Eastern styling, with Arabian arches, traditional hanging lamps, and chunky wooden doors, combined with contemporary furniture and dark-wood paneling for a smart modern feel. Standard rooms clock in at 50 square meters (538 square feet), which aren't particularly spacious by Dubai standards and they lack outdoor space, though deluxe-level and above open to large balconies or terraces overlooking the Jumeirah Al Naseem (opened in 2016) or the canal and out to sea; suites tend to be higher and have more expansive views -- some featuring views of the Burj Al Arab.

Amenities are dutifully high-end, including 42-inch HD TVs with movies on demand, well-stocked minibars, and coffeemakers; though only suites add Bose bluetooth speakers. In-room Wi-Fi is free of charge and fast enough for streaming video. Bedside panels control various room functions like lighting, temperature, and Do Not Disturb signs. Spacious bathrooms have a lovely, traditional Arabian feel, with gorgeous mosaic tiling, separate bathtubs and showers, full-power hairdryers, and quality toiletries.

Having access to all the facilities across the Madinat Jumeirah resort means a dizzying range of dining and leisure facilities at guests' disposal. There are over 40 restaurants and bars covering food from virtually every corner of the world -- though, predictably, prices are above the average for Dubai. While still large by any other standards, the hotel's swimming pool is dwarfed by that at the Al Qasr, which is one of the largest in the region (though only a golf buggy ride away). Closer is the Talise Fitness center, with two indoor pools together with a state-of-the-art gym and a first-of-its-kind High Altitude Suite, while the renowned Talise Spa offers a wide selection of treatments and facilities. 

Guests also have access to a variety of water sports and plentiful daybeds (with waiter service) on the mile-long sandy beach. Children are kept entertained with an excellent kids' club, as well as play areas and a splash park. Families also have free access to the Wild Wadi Water Park, which can be accessed via one of the many water taxis. Free and fast Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort, while sports facilities include tennis and squash courts.