With its blend of luxury resorts, lavish hotels, and more budget-friendly options, the UAE offers lodging for any taste and budget. However, navigating the options and ensuring you find accommodation that meets your needs can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors. This article provides an overview of the types of accommodation available in the major Emirates—along with tips for booking the perfect place to stay during your trip.
Lodgings in UAE
When visiting the Arab Emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, you have many accommodation options to choose from for your stay.
- Hotels
Lavish, luxury hotels are common in UAE, ranging from 5-star to 7-star properties. Well-known international brands like JW Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, and Shangri-La have locations in both cities. For budget-friendly stays, look for hotels ranked 3 stars and up.
- Resorts
Beach resorts, golf resorts, and desert resorts provide a relaxing getaway experience. Many feature private beaches, pools, gyms, restaurants, and kids’ clubs. Popular resort brands in the UAE include Anantara, Kempinski, and Rotana.
- Serviced apartments
For longer visits, serviced apartments provide more spacious accommodations and amenities than standard hotel rooms. Some even have full kitchens, living rooms, and laundry facilities. Serviced apartment brands like Fraser Suites, The Address, and Millennium offer locations throughout the country.
- Vacation rentals
Rent a villa, apartment, or townhouse through sites like Airbnb, Booking.com, or Emirates-based broker Bayut.com. Vacation rentals allow you to stay in residential areas and often provide more room for families and groups. Be sure to check reviews and rent from a reputable host.
With so many options to choose from, you can find accommodation in Dubai and Abu Dhabi suited to any needs and budget. Do some research on locations, amenities, and current rates to determine what style of lodging is right for your trip.
Resources and ways to search for a perfect place to stay
When searching for accommodation in the Arab Emirates, several resources and strategies can help you find the perfect place to stay.
Online booking site
Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com offer a wide range of lodging options in the UAE from luxury resorts to budget hotels. You can filter by location, amenities, and price to find places that match your needs. These sites also often have good deals and package rates.
Property websites
Many hotels, apartments, and resorts have websites where you can view photos, check availability, and book directly. This allows you to see all the details about a specific property to determine if it’s the right fit. You may also find special offers or loyalty program perks when booking direct.
Short-term rental listings
For longer stays or more space, consider renting an apartment, villa, or house through Airbnb, VRBO, or similar sites. These offer furnished rentals for a few nights up to several months. You’ll have access to a kitchen and separate living space, ideal for families or groups. Be sure to thoroughly read reviews from previous guests to find a reputable host and well-maintained property.
Travel agents
Using a travel agent, especially one familiar with the UAE, can help take the hassle out of finding accommodation. They have insider knowledge and connections to get you the best rates and perks. They can suggest properties based on your priorities and handle the booking details for you. Some agents charge small service fees, but they may be able to find overall savings and added value to offset costs.
Ending note
As you can see, finding suitable accommodation in the Arab Emirates requires some research and planning. With a variety of options from luxury hotels to budget apartments, you’ll want to determine your priorities and budget before beginning your search. Once you narrow down the emirate and area, explore the available listings on reputable booking sites. Check reviews from other travelers to get a sense of the quality and experience. Don’t forget that many places may offer discounts or special rates during the hot summer months from June to August. With the right approach, you can find comfortable lodging at a price that suits you in these lavish emirates. The dazzling cities and natural scenery of the UAE await your discovery.
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