Describing something as an ‘oasis’ in the centre of Dubai is certainly a bold statement. Home to nearly four million, and attracting more than 19 million tourists each year, the largest city in the UAE is also one of the busiest; a hub for architectural, financial, cultural and social development in the Middle East. A world away from the secluded, barefoot luxury havens found in the likes of Mauritius and the Maldives, Dubai happily offers something entirely different: a city on steroids that promises to appease every traveller. But an oasis? Perhaps not. 

And yet, that’s what One&Only Royal Mirage pins itself as: ‘a legendary beachfront oasis’, reads its website. Fringing The Palm and residing on a whopping one kilometre of private beach – unheard of in this densely packed city – it has garnered multiple awards, some say it’s the best hotel in Dubai and it’s certainly a flagship for the One&Only brand (it’s its largest resort to date). On approach, the palatial behemoth – so opulent that it could be easily mistaken for its neighbour, the Palace Of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, up the road – it’s clear to see that One&Only pulled out all the stops to ensure its signature Dubai resort is as oasis-like as possible. 

Accessed via a palm tree-lined road, and nestled among 65 acres of manicured gardens peppered with extravagant fountains and ornate sculptures, One&Only Royal Mirage feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai – and that’s exactly its USP. Encouraging its guests to enjoy languid lounging and sun-drenched days on its slice of Dubai’s sought-after coastline, everything about the hotel is geared towards helping experience the height of Arabian splendour – without even venturing outside of its four walls. 

The hotel first opened its doors in 1999, and its original Arabian architecture has clearly stood the test of time. Drawing on the rich traditions of the UAE, One&Only Royal Mirage is home to a melody of intricate arches, domes and towers interspersed by courtyards and rich green lawns. The name comes from the age-old Arabic fable of an expedition to find the remains of the famed Palace of the Royal Mirage beneath the shifting sands of ancient Dubai – folklore suggests a group of young Bedouins took shelter from a fierce sandstorm in a spectacular fortress, which was then lost in the desert – and, as a result, the five-star hotel is divided into three distinct areas to tell its own story. 

The Palace is at the beating heart of the hotel, adorned with intricate mosaic-tiled hallways and hand-painted domes that interconnect the 231 rooms and suites, while the Arabian Court and Residence house a further 217 rooms. Each area is striking in its own right; the Arabian Court is decked out in bespoke lanterns, custom carved wooden furniture and richly embroidered fabrics, with terracotta rooms oozing soothing desert hues with pops of vibrant colour and vivid artwork. When your only conundrum is whether you fancy a sea-view or balcony, or would rather rest your head among modern design or heritage architecture, you know you’re in the right place. 

The Residence, meanwhile, offers an exclusive home-away-from-home, where opulent guest rooms afford views across the Arabian Gulf from outdoor balconies, scented by the gardens below. Here you’ll find the Beach Garden Villa: the crown jewel in One&Only Royal Mirage’s accommodation portfolio. Accessed via a secluded drive and a hidden garden, the private property boasts two master bedrooms, each with a master bath, and its own hammam steam room, as well as a luxe swimming pool and Arabian-style Majlis lounge and adjourning dining area and kitchen. Air-conditioned terraces can be adapted for each individual guest – from a cardio studio equipped with treadmills and weights, to a children’s play den. Because at One&Only Royal Mirage, more is more. 

Speaking of kids, One&Only Royal Mirage has ensured its opulence isn’t only reserved for adults and, as a result, offers a varied family-friendly offering. Those with kids in tow can sunbathe peacefully knowing little ones are thoroughly entertained thanks to the KidsOnly programme, which offers adventures and events for kids aged four to 11, which is complimentary to all resort guests. Daily itineraries are tailored to different age groups, and include camel riding, henna painting, evening Arabian camping and team sports. Drop into Al Koufa Fort to discover a hub of engaging events and things to do, with a stage area, toddlers’ splash pool and adjacent garden for family games and sports. 

For both adults and children, boredom can be kept firmly at bay thanks to the hotel’s choice of four pools. The lagoon-style Arabian Court Pool is designed for families to kick back and relax on private cabanas under palm trees and umbrellas, while the adults-only Al Janoob Pool is a beachfront spot overlooking Dubai Marina and Pal Island Bay. It’s here you’ll find one of the best beach clubs in the city: Drift. Home to an infinity pool surrounded by pristine white loungers and cabanas, it wouldn’t be out of place in the South of France – especially thanks to the delectable Provençal cuisine served under the direction of chef de cuisine Maxime Le Van. 

Trèsind

Beach Bar and Grill

Sunbathing from the comfort of your cabana certainly works up an appetite – and One&Only Royal Mirage boasts a number of outlets to satiate whatever your palate desires. Executive chef Laurent Michel directs the resort’s eight restaurants, ranging from Mediterranean flavours and al fresco dining at Olives to an authentic taste of Morocco in dramatic surroundings at Tagine and the vibrant flavours of India at Trèsind – recently recognised in the inaugural Dubai Michelin Guide and MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants – to  Asian cuisine on a floating Majlis at Eauzone. For something more laidback, but no less lavish, head to the Jetty Lounge. Perfect for a sundowner or two, sink your feet into the sand while dining on a selection of mezze, tapas and Asian-inspired platters.

Of course, a bog-standard spa would never do and so One&Only Mirage has created the Health and Beauty Institute, tucked away amid grand palms and shimmering pools. Alongside a traditional Arabian wellness offering – the Oriental hammam is a must – there’s also an emphasis on luxury pampering and, as such, indulgent treatments nod to French beauty practices. The Carita Suite focuses on facials using techniques and products by the eponymous skincare brand, while guests can book the Pedi:Mani:Cure Studio by Bastien Gonzalez aka France’s ‘foot virtuoso’, and a blowdry or styling appointment at Zouari Hair Salon by hairstylist Alexandre Zouari. 

While there is plenty to occupy well-heeled travellers of all ages here, the hotel does encourage exploration. Head to the concierge desk to discover a curated series of experiences, from family outings to the city’s waterparks to culture-rich evenings spent listening to world-class opera. Sports fans can book a round of golf at the nearby 18-hole PGA course or try their hand at windsurfing or sailing on the warm Gulf waters, while thrilling desert safaris and moonlit dhow dinner cruises in Old Dubai are just the ticket for those looking to immerse themselves in Arabian culture. 

One&Only Royal Mirage certainly doesn’t go for the less-is-more approach, but in a city that is always trying to better itself, that can’t be seen as a bad thing. If one thing is clear, this hotel is not just a beachfront oasis, but a destination in its own right. Book here and we promise you’ll never get hotel envy again. 

From £322 per night. 

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