Burj Al Arab – world’s first seven star hotel

Peter Brown

The Burj Al Arab in Dubai is often heralded as the world’s first seven-star hotel, although this rating is not officially recognized in the hotel industry. This unofficial title was coined by a journalist during its opening and has since become part of its global identity.

The hotel stands out for its luxurious offerings and distinctive sail-shaped architecture. It’s renowned for its opulent suites, exceptional service, and exclusive amenities, which include a private beach, world-class dining, and breathtaking views of the Persian Gulf. The Burj Al Arab symbolizes the ultra-luxurious segment of the hospitality industry and Dubai’s ambition and architectural ingenuity.

History of Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab, located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is one of the most iconic symbols of the city’s rapid development and luxurious lifestyle. Here’s a brief history:

  • Conceptualization: The concept for the Burj Al Arab was a vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, as part of a larger strategy to transform Dubai into a major international tourist destination.
  • Design: The hotel was designed by British architect Tom Wright of WS Atkins PLC. The design resembles the sail of a dhow, a nod to Dubai’s maritime heritage.
  • Construction: Construction began in 1994. The hotel stands on an artificial island, which took two years to reclaim, while construction of the building took less than three years.
  • Opening: The hotel officially opened in December 1999. The grand opening was marked by a memorable fireworks display.

Ownership and Management

  • Owner: The Burj Al Arab is owned by Jumeirah Group, a global luxury hotel company and a member of Dubai Holding.
  • Dubai Holding: Dubai Holding is a global investment holding company that develops and manages an extensive portfolio of companies focused on investments, financial services, real estate, specialized business parks, telecommunications, and hospitality.
  • Jumeirah Group’s Role: As the management company, Jumeirah Group is responsible for the hotel’s operations and has played a crucial role in establishing the Burj Al Arab’s reputation as a symbol of luxury.

Significance

The Burj Al Arab is more than just a hotel; it represents Dubai’s ambition and transformation. It’s a symbol of the city’s modernity and luxury, contributing significantly to its identity as a global destination for high-end tourism. The hotel’s unique architecture and unparalleled luxury have made it one of the most photographed structures in the world and a prominent icon in international media.

Rooms and facilities

Here’s a detailed overview of the rooms and facilities on offer:

Architecture and Design:

  • Structure: Designed to resemble the sail of a dhow, a traditional Arab sailing vessel, the hotel stands on an artificial island 280 meters from Jumeirah beach, connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge.
  • Height and Scale: It’s one of the tallest hotels in the world, standing at 321 meters.
  • Interior Design: The interior is adorned with lavish elements like a grand atrium, gold leaf, rare marble, and custom-made carpets.

Accommodations:

  • Suite-Only Accommodation: The hotel features 202 duplex suites.
  • Range of Suites: Suites vary from the modestly luxurious Deluxe Suite (169 square meters) to the opulent Royal Suite (780 square meters).
  • Features: Suites include floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views, living and dining areas, and state-of-the-art technology.

Dining and Bars:

  • Al Muntaha: Located 200 meters above the Persian Gulf, offering contemporary European cuisine.
  • Al Mahara: Accessed via a simulated submarine voyage, it features a stunning floor-to-ceiling aquarium and specializes in seafood.
  • Skyview Bar: Known for its innovative cocktails and panoramic views of Dubai.

Facilities and Services:

  • Talise Spa: Offers treatments with unparalleled views of the Gulf.
  • Fitness Facilities: State-of-the-art equipment and personal training.
  • Pools and Beach: Two indoor pools, one outdoor pool, and a private beach.
  • Helipad: Not just for transportation but also used for high-profile events.
  • Butler Service: Available for every suite to cater to guests’ needs round the clock.

Exclusive Features:

  • Rolls Royce Fleet: Guests can be chauffeured in one of the hotel’s Rolls Royces.
  • Private Shopping: An in-house shopping service that allows guests to shop from luxury brands without leaving the hotel.

The Burj Al Arab is more than just a hotel; it’s a symbol of modern Dubai’s luxury and extravagance. It offers an experience that goes beyond conventional hospitality, providing guests with a glimpse into what royal-like living could feel like.

Privacy

While the Burj Al Arab in Dubai is known for hosting a plethora of celebrities and VIPs, specific details about who has stayed there are often kept private due to confidentiality agreements and the privacy policies of the hotel. However, it’s widely recognized that the hotel has been a preferred destination for many high-profile guests, including royalty, political leaders, and celebrities from various fields such as film, music, and sports.

Celebrities often choose the Burj Al Arab for its exclusivity, luxury services, and high levels of privacy, which are essential for high-profile individuals. The hotel’s reputation for opulence, combined with its iconic status and exceptional service, makes it a magnet for those seeking a lavish and private retreat.

That said, the hotel itself typically does not disclose the names of its guests to respect their privacy and confidentiality.

The royal suite – the most expensive accommodation at Burj Al Arab

The most luxurious and prestigious accommodation in the Burj Al Arab is the Royal Suite. This suite is renowned for its opulence and exclusive amenities, offering an experience that epitomizes the height of luxury.

Features of the Royal Suite:

  • Size: Spanning an impressive 780 square meters, the suite is located on the 25th floor.
  • Design: Lavishly decorated, it includes a grand staircase made of marble and gold, and a living room with a 13-seat cinema.
  • Amenities: The suite features a private dining area, a majlis (Arabic for “sitting place”) for social gatherings, and an office.
  • Bedrooms: There are two master bedrooms, each with its own custom-made super king beds and adjoining luxurious bathrooms that include Jacuzzis with full-sized Hermes 24 – Faubourg fragrances and amenities.
  • Extras: It offers a private butler service around the clock and a private library.

Charges Per Night:

  • The cost of staying in the Royal Suite varies depending on the season and availability. As of our last update in 2023, prices were reported to be around $24,000 per night. However, these rates are subject to change, and for the most current pricing, it’s advisable to check directly with the hotel or through their official website.

Staying in the Royal Suite at the Burj Al Arab is more than just a hotel experience; it’s a statement of luxury, offering unparalleled levels of comfort and service.

The cheapest room at Burj Al Arab

The “cheapest” room at the Burj Al Arab, which is known for its unparalleled luxury, is actually a suite, as the hotel exclusively offers suite accommodations. The most modest option available is the Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite.

Features of the Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite:

  • Size: These suites are spacious, typically around 170 square meters.
  • Layout: The suite includes a separate living room, bedroom, and luxurious bathroom.
  • Amenities: Equipped with a range of high-end amenities, including a widescreen interactive HD TV, Wi-Fi, and a media hub.
  • Design: Decorated with rich fabrics and lavish furnishings, reflecting the overall opulence of the hotel.

Price Range:

  • The price for the Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite varies depending on the season and other factors. As of our last update, the starting price was around $1,000 to $1,500 per night, but this can fluctuate.
  • It’s important to note that prices can change, and for the most accurate and current rates, it’s best to consult the hotel’s official website or contact them directly.

Even the most “basic” suites at the Burj Al Arab offer a taste of the luxury and exclusive service that the hotel is famous for. They provide an opportunity to experience the opulence of the Burj Al Arab at a relatively more accessible price point.

And there you have it, folks – a glimpse into the lavish world of the Burj Al Arab, where even the soap is probably too fancy to just wash your hands with! Remember, if you ever feel like splurging on a night in the Royal Suite, don’t forget to budget for your morning coffee – it might just be brewed from beans handpicked by mermaids! In a world where luxury knows no bounds, the Burj Al Arab stands tall, literally, as a testament to human ingenuity and, quite possibly, our love for all things shiny. So, the next time you’re in Dubai and spot this iconic sail-shaped structure, give it a little nod. Who knows, it might just wink back at you with one of its diamond-encrusted windows! 🌟🏰💎

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