She is one of Dubai’s flag bearers. With its sail-like shape inspired by local dhows, the Burj al-Arab remains undeniably an architectural feat, both for its style and for its construction… on an artificial island. Inaugurated in 1999 after 5 years of work, the 321 meter high building marks the opening of the city to luxury tourism desired by Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum who anticipates new levers for the economy of emirate.
A veritable museum – which the general public can visit – this self-proclaimed 7-star hotel operated by the luxury hotel chain Jumeirah Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts hosts 202 suites from 170… to 780 square meters.
A high-level culinary scene
But beyond this kingdom of excess, the place is now also worth a detour for its culinary offer. Thus the SAL restaurant and its Mediterranean cuisine, ideally to be enjoyed on the terrace, or L’Olivo at Al Mahara with its tables set up at the edge of a giant aquarium. The best ? Al Muntaha led by chef Saverio Sbaragli. Located on the 27th floor, the establishment won a star in the city’s first Michelin Guide in June for its spectacular view and its refined Franco-Italian cuisine. An honor for the Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts which – beyond the content of the plate and the quality of the service – strives to deploy “real culinary experiences”.
French Riviera and Kayto installed at the Jumeirah Al Naseem hotel; Pierchic within Jumeirah Al Qasr… Ten of the group’s restaurants feature in the Gault&Millau UAE 2022 guide and three are cited in the Michelin Guide. But the competition is tough. Because the culinary palm of Dubai goes to the Italian restaurant Il Ristorante, by chef Niko Romito, and to the Stay by by French chef Yannick Alleno, located at The Palm: each won two stars.
Be that as it may, the arrival in Dubai of these two major guides of the gastronomic scene signals the move upmarket of the catering offer. A strong marker that now positions the city as a new gastronomic destination. But beyond the race for stars, other more accessible concepts are developing. Within Dubai Creek Harbour, The Soul Green focuses on healthy cuisine, mainly based on plants and seasonal products. In the heart of the design district, The Lighthouse is positioned as a concept store with a careful selection of objects, books and tasty dishes. The examples are multiplying. So many addresses that meet the expectations of expatriates. How to live well!