3 minute read
Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre
BACKGROUND The Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), part of Hilton Hotels, opened in 2019 as the iconic brand’s third property in the UAE and its first city hotel. It brings quintessential New York luxury to Dubai’s bustling financial district, spanning floors 18 to 55 of the Burj Daman building.
WHAT’S IT LIKE? It’s inspired by the architecture and lifestyle of the 1960s, with marble, brass, ebony and bronze décor that’s only a touch opulent, but definitely elegant. There are Art Deco overtones too, both in public areas and the guestrooms. It’s not over-the-top, but you feel enveloped in New York luxury at this urban retreat. Guests check in on the 18th floor where all of the hotel facilities are located. Sta are helpful, friendly and anticipate needs.
WHERE IS IT? On Al Mustaqbal Street in the heart of DIFC, close to the Dubai World Trade Centre, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and The Museum of the Future.
ROOMS There are 275 rooms, suites and residential suites. I stayed in a King Premier room with floor-to-ceiling windows revealing views of DIFC and a glimpse of the Museum of the Future too. Spanning 60 sqm, it was spacious, featured highquality furnishings with attention to detail, and a king bed with extremely comfortable feeling lazy, don’t miss the all-day breakfast served until mid-afternoon on Sundays. The iconic Peacock Alley for which the brand is known is an elegant lounge and a great place to meet friends, colleagues or clients. It is named after the alley that once connected the Waldorf and Astoria properties and adds another touch of New York heritage to DIFC.
BUSINESS Located on the ground floor, there are five event spaces with flexible set-up options, including a boardroom, a function suite with an open kitchen, and a grand ballroom (New York), which can accommodate up to 432 guests theatre-style.
LEISURE Facilities include an ample gym with city views, plus an outdoor rooftop pool with the most comfortable sunbeds I have ever experienced – super thick and comfortable. It’s the place to enjoy laidback poolside dining and drinks from the St.Trop rooftop lounge, which introduces a French Riviera dimension to the property. Sta are attentive and helpful when it comes to food choices. The Waldorf Astoria Spa features a Grooming suite for beauty treatments and a Vichy suite with water therapies, a heated hammam table, a Flotation suite, and more.
VERDICT A convenient and luxurious retreat in Dubai’s financial hub where business travellers can rejuvenate after work hours enjoying superb cuisine and indulgent leisure facilities. Step outside and you are at the heart of the city’s action.
Gemma Greenwood
300-threadcount linen. It felt indulgent, which is just what I needed after a busy week of work in Dubai. The bathroom was sizeable, featuring a very large walk-in shower, deep-soak bath and two vanity units. The bedroom was furnished with a chaise lounge, sofa and co ee table and a work desk. My personal concierge attended to my dry cleaning and the complimentary wifi was fast.
FOOD AND DRINK I dined in Bull & Bear, inspired by the original venue once located in the Waldorf Astoria New York. This all-day dining venue serves great co ee and tasty homemade granola as part of a vast breakfast spread. There’s an a la carte menu too for eggs, just how you like them, and other cooked items. If you’re
BEST FOR Discerning business travellers
DON’T MISS A pool dip and drink at St.Trop
PRICE From Dhs1,998 per night for Hilton Honors members
CONTACT Al Mustaqbal Street, Za’abeel, DIFC, Dubai, UAE; +971 4 515 9999; hilton.com
