Originally Posted by mecabq

This would be like an average Sheraton, Hilton, or Marriott in the U.S.

In Dubai, like many other developing-country markets, "five stars" refers more to the services and amenities than to the level of luxury. A five-star hotel will have bell service, valet parking, multiple restaurants and room service, a concierge, a swimming pool and gym, etc., as well as the amenities you mention. It doesn't mean the service will be exemplary or the physical plant particularly upscale.

The five-star standard runs the gamut from a luxurious resort like Four Seasons to a functional-yet-not-glamorous place like Movenpick.

I would think that the Movenpick Deira would be four stars, actually; in any event, it would be comparable to a full-service hotel in the U.S.

None of this is meant to disparage the Movenpick Deira. I have been inside, though never stayed, and it's fairy decent. The Indian restaurant is very good. And I like the location, a block away from a Metro stop near many local restaurants, cafes, and shops. It's a good option for the rate you're paying -- hopefully someone will provide a first-hand report in your other thread.

I have stayed at both of the MovenPicks in Doha, which are half a step below the Deira one in terms of amenities, but which have their appeal.