Review: The Lana

_Location: Situated in the heart of downtown Dubai, The Lana is located by Marasi Bay marina, overlooking Burj Khalifa and the city’s sleekest speedboats. It’s easily accessible, being a 20-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, 75 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, and a 15-minute walk from Dubai Mall and The Dubai Fountain.

_{First impressions:} As you might expect from a Dorchester Collection property, The Lana is the epitome of grandeur and opulence. Cheery doormen in burgundy top hats and tails greet you on arrival, whisking you through the impressive lobby space. Marble floors, grand arched windows, old-meets-new tapestries and beautiful embellishments decorate the interiors, with the soothing sound of piano harmonies providing the perfect soundtrack to your stay. The hotel’s room scent left a lasting impression on me – a divine blend of eucalyptus, lily and rose that was crafted especially for the hotel.

_{The facts:} The Lana opened in April 2024 as the 10th property from Dorchester Collection – and its first in the Middle East. Despite having 225 rooms and suites, the property maintains an air of intimacy and discretion, something Dorchester Collection loyalists will appreciate. There are four signature suite styles. Marina Duplex and Marina Terrace Suites have duplex layouts, double-height corner living rooms, and outdoor terraces on both levels. The Marina Royal Suite features a balcony running along the length of the building, while the two-bedroom The Lana Royal Suite offers 180-degree views of the downtown area and Dubai’s Design District. The design across all levels of accommodation is urban with dark marble and stone flooring, and curved furniture in hues of pink, gold and olive.

On the culinary front, there’s ample choice. Guests can choose between eight dining and mixology venues, including four that have been created in collaboration with famed chefs Jean Imbert and Martín Berasategui and pastry chef Angelo Musa. Dishes are paired with what Dorchester Collection claims is the largest selection of champagne in the UAE. Other facilities include a wellness centre and a state-of-the-art gym boasting Dior-branded skipping ropes, yoga mats and bouncing balls. The hotel’s rooftop pool offers cabana service throughout the day. As night falls, the area transforms into a chic lounge, providing a perfect setting for enjoying fizz beneath the stars.

_{Ideal for:} The Lana caters to business travellers, while also attracting a good proportion of leisure guests. Couples will love its romantic ambience and personal touches.

_Explore: Dubai’s key attractions are on your doorstep. Dubai Mall offers epic shopping opportunities. Dubai Design District (or D3) – a colourful hub of creatives and cool cafes – is located behind the hotel. Guests can take advantage of the property’s exceptional transportation options including Rolls-Royces (complimentary for suite guests) to explore the city, and a futuristic foiler yacht for leisurely sunset cruises along the canal.

_Wow: Stepping into the Dior Spa was a true wow moment. Taking over the 29th floor, it’s decorated in the brand’s iconic Toile de Jouy print. There’s a boutique selling products by the French fashion house, and five treatment rooms offering three treatments exclusively crafted for The Lana’s discerning clientele: Escale at The Lana, Dior Stone Therapy, and D-Sculpt.

_{Book it:} Bed-and-breakfast rates start from £517 per night.

dorchestercollection.com