With so many outstanding luxury hotels in Dubai, it’s hard to filter through the sparkling skyline of exclusive establishments. Dubai is known the world over for offering above-and-beyond travel experiences, where luxury is a given. That being said, there is a helping-hand to guide travellers’ decisions, when the respected Lifestyle Luxury Awards bestow their annual winners with esteemed and well-deserved titles, of which the Meliá Desert Palm Dubai has just won The Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in the UAE, 2020 category. A lush desert escape is the destination of choice for those travellers with an appetite for the finest and sophisticated of experiences. 

Set on an immaculate 160-acre Polo Estate, the Melia Desert Palm Dubai epitomises elegance and serenity. Only 20km outside of the Dubai city centre, guests can escape to this contemporary and niche boutique hotel, hidden away from the hustle and bustle of urbanity.  

The Meliá Desert Palm Dubai offers a diverse range of accommodation options within their limited and intimate capacity, which include villas, suites and rooms meticulously styled with modern and natural features. Each accommodation type has been maximised to take advantage of the incredible lush outdoor scenery and views, which creates a sense of relaxation in being close to nature. King size and Emperors beds, oversized bathtubs, rain showers, skylights, sunken bedroom, temperature controlled private swimming pool and cocoon sofas are some of the stand-out features amongst the various room categories. Equine lovers can look forward to a one-on-one horse riding or polo lesson with seasoned professional trainers.

Come dining time, a highlight at the Meliá Desert Palm Dubai, guests can indulge their food cravings at either Epicure, which is a brasserie style, casual pool-side eatery. Take your pick from a generous selection of imported specialties, artisan cheeses, charcuterie, pastries and dessert. Freshly prepared wood fired pizzas, gourmet sandwiches, sensational salads and pasta are served in style either alfresco by the glittering infinity pool, or indoors. This is an ideal venue for chilled time soaking up the sunshine and immersing in the blue waters – relaxation at its best. 

For a taste of something different and a heartier cuisine, head straight to ‘Rare – Oak Wood Fire Grill’, which has a strong focus on expertly chargrilled cuts of meat as well as fresh seafood, which are paired with globally acclaimed wines from the Wine Spectator cellar. The show kitchen delights avid foodie patrons, where they can also be seated.  This contemporary grill gratifies guests on Friday evenings, where they host a Vintage Brunch, complete with grape pairings, Taittinger bubbles and global influencers. 

The Red Bar is a swanky contemporary lounge, where polo personalities enjoy socialising. A proud display of polo memorabilia as well as antique liquors set the theme. Enjoy homemade infused spirits, imaginative cocktails and an extensive Single Malts cabinet on the beverage menu, plus bar snacks and fine cigars to end off a perfect Arabian day! 

Lastly, the Polo Bar overlooks the championship polo field, the ideal spot to watch the games being played between October and April annually. The evening breeze keeps patrons cool under the shaded Jordanian terrace, where fine bubbles, exciting cocktails and delicious tapas are served fresh.   

Esteemed guests at the Melia Desert Palm Dubai are not short of thrilling adventure: Take a vintage Land Rover into the timeless desert sand dunes, where you’ll find Bedoin Camps inside a private Royal Retreat to dine under the stars at night, amongst flickering candlelight in true traditional style.  Take to the skies in a hot air balloon for an exhilarating view of the vast desert plains. For the equestrian enthusiasts, catch the polo games being played in season, ride horseback through the spectacular estate, or take horse riding training from one of the professional riders – a perfect opportunity to learn some new skills in this passionate pursuit. For the less wild side, enjoy cycling or jogging through the sensational property, where one is bound to spot a Kingfisher or Indian Roller.