Background
Indian luxury chain, The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, has two hotels in the UAE — The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah and this city business hotel, The Oberoi, Dubai. The latter was launched in 2013 and has, since then been among the leading business hotels in Dubai.
What’s It Like
Unlike the more “traditional Indian” Oberoi properties elsewhere, The Oberoi, Dubai, has a more contemporary, urban design. The lobby, accessed by a long motor ramp, is exquisitely designed with sophisticated lines, rich textures and is bathed in natural light. The sari-clad lobby staff offers a warm welcome, and this is a nice touch.
Where is it
Located in the heart of the business district, in the Business Bay neighbourhood, the hotel is an easy drive from other locations such as Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai Exhibition and Convention Centre,
Mall of The Emirates and Dubai International Airport.
Rooms
There are 252 rooms and suites spread across different categories such as Deluxe, Luxury and Premier. Understated and elegant, the spacious rooms are decorated in pastel, earthy colours and are packed with amenities. Business travellers will particularly love the rich oak furniture, large TV screen, spacious bathroom, Nespresso machine and Forest Essentials bath and body products. I stayed in a Deluxe room, featuring a high ceiling and large comfy bed. The pillow menu was a nice touch. At night, the sweeping view of the city, from my room, was breathtaking.
Food and Drink
The Oberoi, Dubai is packed with F&B options. Breakfast is best enjoyed at the international all-day restaurant, Nine7One. I found myself unwinding with sushi platter selections, prawn tempura, sliders, other bar snacks downed with delicious cocktails in Iris, the rooftop bar with a fabulous ambience and panoramic view of the city. Iris is one of Dubai’s most popular spots for an after-work drink. Ananta, another culinary offering, has a vast and exemplary Indian menu. MATTO, their Italian restaurant allows guests to enjoy their meals and watch the chefs create masterpieces in the open kitchen.
Meetings
Besides a business centre, the hotel offers ten meeting rooms and an executive boardroom. The Grand Ballroom is ideal for corporate events of all sizes. The Lobby Lounge is the perfect place to hold informal business meetings over light snacks and tea.
Leisure
There is an outdoor swimming pool, a luxurious spa, and fully equipped fitness centre.
Verdict: A great business hotel at a prime location in Dubai, which will appeal to Indian business travellers.
PRICE: Upwards of Dhs 547 / ₹10,400
The Oberoi, Dubai, Business Bay, Al Aamal Street, P.O. Box 71847, Dubai, UAE
Khursheed Mistry
