Arrival/Check-in: I arrived by car after being picked up at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) just an hour or less away. It was quite late, close to midnight, and I had a full day ahead of me the next morning. Check-in was swift; and as I gazed around, I wished I had less time scheduled for work and more time to relax at this beautiful resort oasis in Dubai. Before going to my room, I arranged a driver for the next day, which was simple to do. I have used this same driver many times in Dubai.

Guest Quarters: The room was unique; immediately to the right upon entering was a massive bath with a large shower and tub. The tub was almost dead center with long, sheer drapes that acted like a door, offering a tented effect. Twin sinks, separated by a hanging vanity, were shaped like large bongo drums that tapered at the bottom into the wall — interesting design.

Walking out of the bath from a second entrance, I discovered a workstation and storage hallway, which on the other side acted as the headboard for the king-sized bed and night stands. On the wall was a large, flat-screen TV; a sofa, chair and small table were on the opposite side in a little alcove. The best was a small balcony where you could watch the polo ponies practicing. The room made good use of the space, and I found the accommodations comfortable.

Services/Amenities: There is nothing like having a refreshing drink and watching the polo team practice — a great plus for this property. What an entertaining end to the day I had at the Polo Bar, watching the sun set over the polo fields! Breakfast was located at Epicure, which also serves lunch and dinner in a bistro atmosphere. I had the absolute best homemade marmalade at breakfast. Guests enjoy Rare, the property’s contemporary European grill; I was too busy coming and going to partake.

The beauty of the property for me is the ability to use it as a business destination, while others use it as a traditional resort. A car to downtown is only about 10 minutes, so the Desert Palm is fine for wherever your business takes you in Dubai. I suggest you book your own horseback riding excursions, as the property has 150 acres, and riding lessons are available. Desert Palm also offers an outdoor pool, a fitness center, four outdoor tennis courts, two indoor squash courts and, I hear, some exquisite bird-watching.

The Experience: An Arabian experience in a relaxing setting.

GT CHECKLIST

• Doorman/valet
• Less than 10 minutes for check-in
• Separate tub and shower
• Large vanity
• High-quality towels
• Powerful, unattached hair dryer
• High-quality bed linens
• Large, flat-screen television
• Large desk with convenient outlets
• Large, complimentary laptop safe
• Complimentary in-room WiFi
• Complimentary bottled water
• Stocked minibar
• Ample lighting
• In-room coffeemaker
• Iron and ironing board
• On-site restaurant and bar
• 24-hour room service
• 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center
• Turn-down service

Desert Palm Dubai

Desert Palm Retreat
P.O. Box 119171
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
tel 971 4 323 8888
desertpalm.peraquum.com