When it comes to lavish hotels, Dubai has its fair share. Now, the City of Gold has added yet another glamorous property to its burgeoning collection: One&Only One Za’abeel.
Kerzner International’s latest outpost is the ultra-luxe hospitality brand’s first-ever urban resort. Set within the One Za-abeel development – a striking pair of skyscrapers connected by the world’s longest cantilever, The Link – the hotel looks set to become one of the hottest addresses in Dubai.
So what can you expect from the new property? Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy (the esteemed architect behind some of the planet’s most iconic hotels), the interiors at One&Only One Za’abeel take inspiration from the resort’s stunning surroundings. Expect a calming color palette in shades of cream and marine blue, with subtle sand motifs throughout.
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The resort features 229 rooms, including a collection of expansive suites with panoramic views of the Dubai skyline. If you’re looking to indulge in some R&R, consider booking one of the Sanctuary Suites which boast in-room massage tables, a fully equipped gym and a meditation area.
Most exclusive of all is the Villa One – a sprawling abode spanning over 8,100 sq ft. Taking luxury to ever-greater heights, the penthouse features a private outdoor infinity pool, cinema, open kitchen and dedicated host to take care of your every need, so you won’t need to lift a finger during your stay.
One&Only Za’abeel is also home to a collection of opulent branded residences, with a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments available to buy.
Both residents and guests will have access to The Link – a floating boulevard that connects One Za’abeel’s dual towers. The lifestyle destination will feature a selection of gourmet dining experiences from an array of Michelin-starred chefs including Anne-Sophie Pic, Paco Morales and Tetsuya Wakada. Guests will also be able to unwind beside the enormous infinity pool (the longest in the UAE) in one of the luxury cabanas, with a cocktail in hand.
And, if you’re hoping for a health reset, you’re in luck: One&Only Za’abeel is home to the first Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie in the UAE. Set across three floors within the resort, the wellness space features 29 treatment rooms with an array of therapies available, based on the Swiss brand’s three pillars (Longevity, Wellbeing and Aesthetics). Guests’ wellness journeys kick off with an extensive health assessment measuring everything from metabolism to immunity before a bespoke treatment plan is crafted.
When you can bring yourself to leave the resort, there is plenty to explore nearby; One&Only Za’abeel is within walking distance of Dubai World Trade Centre and the Dubai Mall (the second biggest shopping mall in the world).
“One&Only One Za’abeel sets the benchmark for ultra-luxury hospitality in a thriving cosmopolitan setting,” said Jan Tibaldi, general manager at One&Only One Za’abeel. “We are delighted to welcome guests to experience the soulful heart of the world’s most dynamic city – a place that is the center of culture, cuisine and entertainment.”
Philippe Zuber, chief executive officer at Kerzner International, commented: “Adding to Dubai’s dynamic skyline and embracing the soul of the city, this architectural landmark pushes the boundaries of excellence and vibrant city living – we’re thrilled to welcome the world into our first urban resort.”
One&Only One Za’abeel is just the latest addition to the brand’s rapidly expanding collection of luxury properties; in spring 2024 the new Kea Island outpost will open in Greece, followed by a property on the northwest side of Montana’s Lone Mountain which is currently slated to welcome its first guests in 2025.
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