Burj al Arab // Inside Dubai’s jewel of the desert

Burj al Arab, one of the most iconic hotels in the world. Known as a seven-star luxury retreat where only the rich and famous can stay. Where Agassi and Federer played a game of tennis on the rooftop helipad. And where there is more security at the gate than at Fort Knox. But did you know normal people, like me, can still get access?

Burj al Arab sits on an artificial island 280 metres from Jumeirah Beach. It is connected to the mainland by a private curved bridge. There is heavy security on the bridge, and you must have a room or dining reservation to be able to enter.

All that glitters is actually gold. Real 24-carat gold leaf covers approximately 22,000 square feet of the interior,

Tips on how to visit Burj al Arab

There are ten restaurants in Burj al Arab! Anything from the finest French cuisine, fine dining seafood, local Arabesque feasts to Mediterranean, casual bites on the Terrace or cocktails in the gold bar.

You cannot just wander aimlessly around the hotel. It is exclusive for a reason. But by booking into a restaurant for lunch, dinner or just drinks will allow you access to one of the most luxury hotels in the world.

I highly recommend Gold on 27 for the incredible cocktails and views over Dubai. Or snacks on the Terrace with magnificent views of the sun setting over the Persian Gulf.

But my most favourite thing to do at the Burj al Arab is a spa day. The Burj al Arab spa is perched 150 metres above the Persian Gulf and is the ultimate destination to luxuriate, relax and rejuvenate.

The spa has two infinity pools, one for women only and one open to all. Of course, I tried both. You gain access to the pools when booking a spa package or massage. And you can spend all day there if you wish.

You can also extend the luxury by adding on an afternoon high tea. This can be enjoyed in the beautiful Assawan Amphitheatre.

The spa experience is pure luxury. I was fortunate to the be the only guest, so I had the pools and spa facilities all to myself.

Next time you are in Dubai, don’t just walk past the security gate. Take a minute to make a booking and explore the beautiful and luxurious Burj al Arab.