I had some friends in from Kabul on the way out and airport Le Meridian wanted crazy rates for a few hours - but understandable for the property... a lot of 'good' small hotels and most will let you check in early in the area; if you want chains try the ibis and novotel, not very busy these days. Also might want to look at Flora Park; on shk zayed and a little pricey Rose Rayhan Rotana, Emirates Grand are new(er); and a friend stayed a premier inn for a night next to T3 which she didn't complain about...