TIME Oak Hotel & Suites

Built in 2008, the TIME Oak Hotel & Suites is a modern, upscale property with affordable rates but less pizzazz than most Dubai properties. Decor throughout is contemporary, albeit underwhelming, largely featuring neutral-tone decor, streamlined wood furniture, and generic artwork. A light-filled atrium in the lobby and casual cafe with turquoise sofas and spiral-patterned rugs adds some character. There's little wow-factor inside, but an outdoor pool terrace is lovely and has pleasant city views -- as do many rooms. Note that no alcohol is served on-site, which is common for hotels in Dubai. The property attracts many couples and families on vacation, plus business travelers working in the Barsha Heights, which is close to the Internet and Media Cities. 

The hotel is situated in the Barsha Heights (formerly known as Tecom area) neighborhood, close to the posh Palm Jumeirah. There are some eateries in the immediate area, but travelers will largely have to drive or take a cab to reach dining and shopping spots. For public transportation, the closest metro stop, Dubai Internet City Metro Station 2, is a 10-minute walk. It's a seven-minute drive from Internet City, and 11 minutes from Media City. Dubai Marina and its mall are 15 minutes away, while Marina Beach is 16 minutes away by car. Downtown Dubai sights such as Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, are roughly 20 minutes away by car, as are Dubai Zoo and Jumeirah Beach. Dubai International Airport can be reached in 25 minutes by car.

Rooms are outfitted in contemporary, neutral-tone decor -- think dark-wood furniture, beige walls and patterned carpet, and shades of chocolate and tan in bed linens and curtains. Although a bit generic, the overall feel is warm and comfy. Deluxe Rooms have king or twin-size beds, work desks, small sitting areas, flat-screen TVs, and tea- and coffee-making facilities, as well as closets with electronic safes, ironing facilities, and bathrobes. Apartment-style suites have similar decor but add separate living rooms with couches, well-equipped kitchens with ovens, full-size fridges, and stovetops, and furnished terraces -- some with lovely city views. Some lower-category units also have outdoor spaces, but these aren't always furnished. Bathrooms across the board have shower/tub combos, bidets, free toiletries, and hairdryers. 

Despite the business setting, many tourists come here, and they're well-catered to with leisure facilities. Firstly, a well-sized outdoor pool and separate shallow pool for kids is set in a sunny terrace. Also here are a hot tub, cushioned loungers and a few umbrellas, and a snack bar serving light meals and mocktails, as the hotel does not serve alcohol. Pranzo Eatery is an all-day Mediterranean restaurant, while Mashrabiya serves Middle Eastern fare for breakfast and lunch. A casual cafe serves pastries and beverages. A full-service spa offers salon and massage treatments, as well as a sauna. A modern, well-equipped gym has a variety of cardio and strength-training machines, plus free weights. Wi-Fi and parking are free.