I just got back from the Fairmont. I liked it and had a relaxing stay, but I wasn't entirely blown away.

Plus points:

Spacious rooms

Good choice of F&B - I particularly liked the Cedar Lounge, which is a very attractive Lebanese restaurant, with tables set over water.

Relaxing beach area with a nice beach restaurant to have lunch. Note that the view is not great from the beach however.

Attentive service.

Very good value - really quite cheap, especially compared to Dubai.

Not so good points:

The decor didn't really do it for me. Odd patterned carpets and fussy colour schemes. It all felt a bit dated. Having said that, the lobby is attractive.

No balconies or terraces in the rooms.

I went to the Shangri La for drinks. The pool area is quite nice and has a better view of the Grand Mosque than from the Fairmont, but otherwise I didn't really like it. I would try the Rocco Forte next time.

There is a real issue with travelling between the Shangri La and the Fairmont. You can't walk as there is no pavement, but taxi drivers don't want to make the trip and become seriously hostile, as it's not far enough for them.

I also checked out the O&O the Palm in Dubai (although was staying with friends). Seriously cool restaurant and bar accessed via a bridge from the main resort. Very attractive pool area too. Loved the boat from the equally cool Jetty Bar at the O&O Royal Mirage.