LOCATION: On Jumeirah Beach, a short cab ride from downtown Dubai and the trendy marina area.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: Dubai is known for its high-end and luxury hotels, and with this being my first trip to the emirate, expectations were high. Resembling an Arabian palace, the beautiful One&Only Royal Mirage is as opulent as I’d hoped. As you walk through the doors, a member of staff strikes a huge suspended gong, informing the reception area and other employees of a new arrival.

THE FACTS: The sprawling property is divided into three areas: Arabian Court, The Palace and The Residence. Combined, the hotel has 453 rooms and suites, and eight restaurants. The Palace has four dining venues: Mediterranean option Olives; Moroccan food at Tagine; European cuisine at Celebrities (which also serves a buffet breakfast); and The Beach Bar & Grill. In the Arabian Court section you’ll find Indo-European cuisine in Nina; Middle Eastern and northern European-inspired fare at The Rotisserie; or there’s the Asian-influenced Eauzone.The Dining Room is the only restaurant exclusively for the use of guests staying in The Residence.

A GOOD BASE FOR: A beach and city break combination. The property lies on a kilometre-long private beach and is perfect for those seeking to relax in the intense heat. There are also three pools, one in each section of the hotel. Families should head to the nearby Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm, and if you book a suite you can use the cabanas on the beach.

WOW: Beachfront bar The Jetty Lounge is super cool. It has an Ibiza-esque party vibe to it with good music, sofas on the beach, delicious cocktails and perfect views of The Palm. From here you can also use the free boat shuttle service across to sister property One&Only The Palm. Recommend your clients make use of this option and book in a dinner or two at the neighbouring property – it’s much quicker than driving, plus you’ll feel like the star of a Hollywood action movie.

BOOK IT: From £307 per night

Hollie-Rae Brader