The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial CentrevsBab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa
Both properties are recommended by expert reviewers. On balance, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is preferred by most reviewers compared to The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa comes in at #17 in Dubai with recommendations from 9 reviews like Travel + Leisure, Afar Magazine and Rough Guide.
The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre
Gate Village, DIFC, Gate Village, DIFC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $234/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Laundry Service
- Concierge
Star Service
"Nearly every top social event and corporate group with business in the area now unpacks here." Full review
Gayot
"Classic luxury directly connected to Dubai's international financial district."
The Telegraph
9.0
"The hotel is elegant and refined with impressive artworks, an excellent Belgian restaurant and sublime spa." Full review
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa Show All Reviews
International Endurance City, 308th Rd, P.O Box 8168, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $220/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Shuttle Bus
- Laundry Service
Frommer's
"Relaxation defines this enchanted desert resort, located 45 minutes outside Dubai near Endurance City." Full review
Rough Guide
"Hidden out in the desert a 45-minute drive from the airport, this gorgeous resort occupies a wonderfully atmospheric replica Arabian fort."
Time Out
"For a touch of old-style Arabia, without losing any modern comforts, desert resort Bab Al Shams is one of a kind." Full review
Oyster
Luxury
"A popular, family-friendly resort and attracts a range of guests, including business travelers looking for something a bit different." Full review
Afar Magazine
"The family-friendly Bab al Shams Desert Resort & Spa wraps around an oasis and looks out over gently rolling sand dunes that guests explore by 4x4, horse, camel, and mountain bike." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"Meaning gateway to the sun, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is located in the desert outside of the city." Full review
Fodor's
"Bab al Shams, translating as "doorway to the sun," is a five-star adobe brick oasis, a vision you'd expect to find on the edges of the Sahara desert, or perhaps as a set for a movie." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"Escape big-city Dubai with a stay at Bab Al Shams, a low-slung desert resort modeled after an Arabian fort." Full review
Independent
"There are desert adventures such as camel rides, falconry exhibitions and nature walks to enjoy...each of the rooms reflects the Middle East in its design, and provides guests with desert views"
Best hotels in Dubai 2023: Where to stay for a luxurious break
February 17, 2023
Lonely Planet
"Resembling a fort and blending into the desertscape, Bab Al Shams is a tonic for escapists seeking to indulge their Arabian Nights fantasies" Full review