3 minute read
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront
BACKGROUND Properties under the Radisson Blu brand, part of the Radisson Hotels Group, are described as stylish, elegant and inviting, combining convenience and individuality. The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront, opened in 2018. If you’re making a reservation or already booked and in a taxi on your way to check in, make sure you have the right hotel. Why? Because there is also a Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Canal View, located nearby.
WHAT’S IT LIKE? It’s a modern business-focused property with a pleasant waterside (Dubai Canal) location. The lobby is spacious and flooded with natural light, and there are plenty of places to sit and work, including a co ee shop in the lobby with a co-working table.
WHERE IS IT? Located in Business Bay, it’s 15 minutes away from Dubai International airport and five minutes from Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai World Trade Centre, Downtown Dubai and attractions including the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and the Museum of the Future.
ROOMS There are 432 rooms and suites with views of Business Bay. Some have private balconies overlooking the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Canal. I stayed in a Standard room (33 sqm), which was practical and comfortable – perfect for a business stay. It featured a king-size bed, table and chair, a work desk, TV, mini bar, tea/co ee making facilities, plenty of clothes-hanging space and a very large bathroom featuring a walk-in shower, bath and all the amenities you need. The furnishings were dark wood, which did make me want to open the curtains wide to ensure there was enough daylight when I was not sleeping.
FOOD AND DRINK There is a good selection of dining options including Firelake Grill House and Cocktail Bar serving Midwest classics, thanks to its open-flame cooking technique. There’s a laid-back atmosphere, and plenty of spaces to work and dine. I dined here for lunch and enjoyed a delicious niçoise salad with fresh sourdough bread. All-day-dining venue The Larder is busy, but e icient, with a decent bu et as well as eggs and other hot dishes to order. I also ate dinner here on the terrace, which is a good spot, and when the building work around the property is complete, the views will be impressive. There’s a Scottish lounge, Makar, with big leather chairs serving drinks, bar snacks and sharing plates. Smoking is permitted so if you are not a smoker, it might not be for you.
BUSINESS There are 11 meeting rooms, a breakout area and a boardroom, catering to a wide range of events with a capacity to host up to 350 people. Radisson Meetings also o ers hybrid multi-site meetings and events options.
LEISURE There’s a large gym, so plenty of space to work out and a small outdoor pool and separate kids’ splash pool. There are sunbeds and access to poolside dining and drinks, so if you have a few hours to spare during your work trip, there’s a place to wind down. There’s also a Dreamworks Spa. I didn’t have time to try it, but the massage prices were very reasonable for Dubai and I suspect it would be money well spent after a busy day of work.
VERDICT If you are looking for a ordable, comfortable and reliable accommodation, close to major business districts, this hotel is a good option. The food is good, the service e icient and there are plenty of places to work or hold meetings. Radisson Blu is a consistent brand you can trust.
Gemma Greenwood
BEST FOR On-the-go business travellers
DON’T MISS A massage if you have time
PRICE Internet rates for a Standard room starts from Dhs600 per night for a weeknight in October
CONTACT Marasi Drive, Business Bay; +971 4249 7800; radissonhotels.com
