Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf is Jumeirah’s most intimate offering, with the feel of a luxury boutique hideaway. Set within the prestigious Madinat Jumeirah, home to four Jumeirah hotels occupying 100 waterfront acres, Dubai’s penchant for highrises is nowhere to be found. Instead, inspiration is drawn from Old Dubai, with Madinat Jumeirah based on a traditional Emirati village (a very luxurious one at that).

Tranquil Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf has built a loyal following since it opened 20 years ago. Celebrating classic Arabian architecture and palm-laden landscapes carved by a network of waterways dotted with abra (traditional boats helmed by the Jumeirah staff), it exudes an old-world charm that can be hard to find in Dubai. 

That’s not to say it doesn’t have all the frills one would expect from a five-star Dubai resort. Made up of a collection of newly-refurbished ochre-clad Arabian Houses and seven exclusive Malakiya Villas, guests can take their pick of Madinat Jumeirah's 50 restaurants and access to over a mile of private beach and the Talise spa, supplying everything from full-moon yoga to Stem Cell facials. 

At nearly 11,000 sq ft, the palatial Royal Malakiya Villa bestows two floors of opulent living for all the family. The villa’s recent facelift blends a sleek and timeless interpretation of Arabian design that draws on the serene natural surroundings of the resort. 

Neutral walls and eggshell blue accents provide the powder-hued backdrop for custom artworks incorporating petal and floral elements, whilst dashes of gold add a regal touch. Meanwhile, an ethereal leaf motif chandelier hangs elegantly over the eight-seater dining table.

A spacious light-filled ensuite serves the primary suite with a curved marble jacuzzi tub under a ceiling-height stucco floral mural. Two further bedrooms benefit from ensuites, all featuring amenities by Acqua di Parma. 

Complete with a private plunge pool, elevator, dedicated butler and a private abra station, this is one of Jumeirah’s finest abodes.