TOP LUXURY HOTELS DUBAI

Most people think of Dubai and think of The Burj Al Arab.

Designed to resemble a billowing sail, the hotel soars to a height of 321 metres, dominating the Dubai coastline. This iconic building has become the symbol of Dubai... and ultimate luxury.

At night, it offers an unforgettable sight, surrounded by choreographed colour sculptures of water and fire. This all-suite hotel reflects the finest that the world has to offer.

With your chauffeur driven Rolls Royce, discreet in-suite check in, private reception desk on every floor and a brigade of highly trained butlers who provide around-the-clock attention, you can be assured of the highest and most attentive service throughout your stay.

Even if your stay is at a neighbouring hotel, The Burj Al Arab is really worth a visit. A prior table booking is required, otherwise the main security gate on-shore, may accept payment of around $50 per person to gain access, which is redeemable against food or beverages consumed. This is to prevent those who just want to use entry as a photographic opportunity.

BURJ AL ARAB RECEPTION

7* luxury lands a knock-out punch to the senses, as it greets you with an almost overtly ostentatious lobby. Complete with gold leaf, an array of fountains, a seemlessly ending view to the top of the cocoon-like atrium, and built-in wall aquariums, it's quite a task to register the initial impact The Burj Al Arab makes.

When it's time to wind down, the breathtakingly beautiful Assawan Spa & Health Club offers a haven of tranquility, in a stunning setting, perched high on the 18th floor.

This excellent, if somewhat overpriced, spa is luxurious and quite simply, pure indulgence. The surroundings superb so whether it's pampering, weight loss, stress reduction or relaxation, your every need will be catered for at Assawan Spa & Health Club.

For your dining options, the ubiquitous afternoon tea, is one of the highlights at The Burj, and is booked for many months in advance. Another unique event is offered at the Al Mahara restaurant. In keeping with the 'off-shore' theme, the Al Mahara dining experience starts as its guests are boarded onto a simulated submarine.

The captain radios ahead to signal your imminent arrival, and even warns you of a little light turbulance. As you sit in the capsule and watch your destination draw ever closer, it is slightly commical, but most definitely an unusual and unforgettable appetizer to the main event! The restaurant itself has an enormous central aquarium, affording you a peaceful and slightly hypnotic display of tropical fish as you dine. The atmosphere is quite romantic and fairly subdued as some diners are almost stunned into silence, especially those seated at tables practically touching this amazing piscean parade.

AL MAHARA RESTAURANT

The Burj Al Arab does not have rooms; it has 202 duplex suites. With floor to ceiling windows, spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf are ensured.

Your own personal butler awaits you and will be on hand to ensure that your every wish is met and surpassed. Check-in is completed in your suite, and of course, at your convenience.

Lavishly decorated with rich, sumptuous fabrics and colours, each suite features an ornate staircase, a sizeable living and dining area, state of the art entertainment system and office facilities. Every detail in the room is catered for and controlled at the push of a button.

BATHROOM AREA OF PRESIDENTIAL SUITE

A bath built for two, extensive range of Hermes toiletries, a menu for music and oils, and an additional one offering a range of 13 pillows to choose from comes as standard.

The sophisticated private dining menu is served 24 hours and a personalised menu can be arranged with the Chef and Private Dining Manager.

Suites range from a Deluxe Suite of 170 square metres, through varying styles of 1,2 and 3 bedroom suites, to the Presedential and the ultimate 'Royal Suite' on the 25th floor (which is actually much higher as all suites are duplex.) The Royal Suite is 780 square metres, has a private elevator, private cinema, gold and marble staircase, library, a rotating 4 poster bed in the master bedroom, and can sleep up to 5 adults.

All suites offer Rolls Royce or helicopter transfers.

In preparation for the Dubai Duty Free Men's Open, tennis legend Andre Agassi of the USA and Roger Federer of Switzerland, couldn't resist the temptation to have a friendly 'hit' on the world's most unique tennis court, the Helipad of the Burj Al Arab. The majestic Burj Al Arab is without doubt the most recognizable hotel in the world. The hotel's helipad, which is situated 211 metres high covers a surface area of 415 square metres.

These amazing pictures were taken on February 22, 2005.

FEDERER HITS A SMASHER!