Chances are, if Dubai is on your holiday bucket list, you subscribe to the ‘bigger is better’ philosophy when it comes to accommodation. The city is, after all, home to some of the world’s best luxury hotels. Given every major player has at least one, if not more, outposts here, narrowing down where to stay can have you scrolling through a considerably long list. But if you’re on the hunt for mod cons, five-star service and a classic slice of Dubai opulence, there’s one hotel that stands out: the Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre.

Occupying floors 18 to 55 of Burj Daman, a soaring skyscraper that also houses residential and commercial space, the Waldorf Astoria is in the heart of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The brand’s first urban property in the city (the other being a palatial beach-front offering), the chic hotel combines New York glamour with Dubai’s more-is-more ethos – you could just as easily imagine the cast of Mad Men wafting around the lobby as an influencer from Dubai Bling.

The Waldorf Astoria DIFC is a decidedly cooler counterpart to the more formal corporate hotels in the area. Inspired by 1960s Manhattan, guests are greeted by a sleek lobby that sets the tone for the rest of the hotel. Think monochrome Volakas marble flooring and a mirrored ceiling with furnishings clad in dark ebony and walnut with glinting bronze finishes.

The smart interior design continues in the rooms, where luxurious apartment-style spaces feature dark wood furniture and brass and rose gold light fixtures that gleam in the sunlight streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows, each with a spectacular view of the Dubai skyline. The vast marble bathrooms are a highlight, featuring double shower rooms or an enormous bathtub and stocked with premium Aesop toiletries.

The Waldorf Astoria DIFC’s New York-influence spills through to the dining options. Borrowing heavily from its American counterpart, the Bull & Bear promises steaks to rival the Big Apple’s best while, naturally, the Waldorf salad is unmissable. The signature steakhouse also nods to the spirit of the Roaring Twenties with live jazz in the evenings.

If it’s light bites you’re after, head to the rooftop St. Trop bar. Inspired by the French Riviera, the stylish lounge serves up zesty appetisers, including ceviche and mezze platters, alongside breathtaking views from the pool. A sumptuous afternoon tea, meanwhile, is the order of the day at the elegant Peacock Alley while Waqūd is the perfect pit-stop for those short on time but not willing to sacrifice on sophistication. 

As well as a bevy of excellent restaurants and comfortable rooms, the hotel boasts fantastic amenities. The state-of-the-art gym, with views of the famed skyline, will inspire even the most gym-averse to squeeze in a workout before heading to the spa for some dedicated R&R. An extensive treatment list ranges from a modern hammam experience on a heated marble bed to a floatation pod for ultimate relaxation.

In keeping with the Hilton group’s high standards, the staff are well-trained and on-hand throughout your trip. No ask is too much for your personal concierge, who will go the extra mile to customise your stay – whether that’s surprising guests with a personalised cake or picking the perfect pillow for a good night’s sleep. Located a mere 10 minutes from some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and The Museum of the Future, for modern luxury and old-world charm, the Waldorf Astoria DIFC is, as always, a safe bet.

Rooms from £204 per night, visit hilton.com

Read more: The best luxury hotels in Dubai