THE HOTEL: A five-star property comprised of 247 rooms and suites, and a further 137 deluxe apartments. Just off the main Sheikh Zayed Road, conveniently situated for the convention centre, Dubai’s ‘Financial City’ and just 25 minutes drive from the airport.
The check-in: A very efficient check-in followed collection from the airport by the hotel’s chauffeur drive company. I was shown to my room and given a brief explanation of where everything was and how it worked. I was also given a quick overview of the hotel facilities and dining arrangements.
The room: The room was very spacious with ample cupboard space, a desk, multi-channel TV and wifi. The bathroom was also very spacious with separate shower and bath. Complimentary toiletries were provided.
The business: Guests staying on one of the three Club Rotana floors have separate check-in, complimentary breakfast, evening snacks and cocktails in the Club Rotana Lounge. There are five state-of-the-art meetings rooms accommodating from ten up to 120 delegates.
The facilities: Along with the ten food and beverage outlets, there are two pools, a health and fitness centre, business centre, laundry service, beauty salon and shuttle bus service to local shopping centres.
The restaurant: `There's a selection of ten catering outlets, including seven restaurants – featuring Asian, Indian, Lebanese, Latin, international and seafood menus – plus a British-style pub, a café and a pool bar. The three signature restaurants are Waterside Seafood Restaurant & Terrace, located on top of an artificial lake, Latino House Restaurant & Bar, offering a range of South American dishes, and Zaika Restaurant offering a range of the finest Indian food.
The CHECKOUT: A very quick service – I was escorted to a waiting car and was soon on
my way to the airport.
The verdict: A thoroughly enjoyable experience, just as one comes to expect from a hotel in Dubai – and from Rotana. The staff were extremely attentative and the location was ideal for attending an event at the convention centre. The Double D ‘British’ pub was a welcome home from home in the evening following a busy day.
The details: Rack rates start from Dhs2,000 (£285) for a Classic room; Dhs2,100 (£300) for
a Premium Room and Dhs2,250 (£321) for a Club Rotana Room on the executive floor.
Tel: +971 4 321 1111; www.rotana.com David Clare
