Originally Posted by scented

Quick update on Dubai, for those interested:

Park Hyatt Dubai

The Park Hyatt used to be a favorite of mine for many years. Few hotels epitomize 1001 nights as beautifully as this oasis by the creek. I love the suites, all spacious and many afford beautiful views of the surrounding Yacht Club and even Burj Khalifa in a distance. I grew equally fond of the beautiful pool in its garden setting between palm trees and authentic cuisine at the hotel's own Thai Kitchen (must be the best Thai outside the kingdom). While I still rave about The Thai Kitchen, the hotel operations leave a lot do be desired. I had high hopes for the new GM -- service picked up initially and the team seemed motivated. Little touches were introduced, such as more activities and themed nights at the restaurants. Now, a year later, the hotel is a shadow of its former self: accountants rule and cost cutting effects every aspect of the experience. The spirit of generosity is long gone and I do question the ability of management to deliver a rewarding experience. How is it possible that the hotel's pool and entire spa is made accessible to huge groups of Emirates staff (!) on a constant basis? This particular group indulges in excessive drinking in the pool and sun beds are almost impossible to come by (the few remaining are 'reserved' by package tourists). The hotel is deteriorating and the occasional positive input does not change this. The additional revenue from local expats and questionable deals such as the Emirates pool access cards will cut business of leisure travelers in the long run. Sadly, the Park Hyatt no longer seems an option, save for short one night stays due to its proximity to the airport.

Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach

The only Dubai resort to be featured in the current Gallivanter's Guide issue of Beach Resorts, this grande dame continues to impress... while we miss some faces there (Simon Casson promoted to President, Richard Raab promoted to GM at FS Bahrain and Mariana Rietmann switched to FS Chicago), I am glad that quality continues under new leadership. Phew! These days, seeing what's happening in Dubai, I wouldn't take any chances and FS rewards its guest with highly personalized service and invariably the best hard product. The spa was treated to some precious time of The Spa Whisperer, Nigel Franklyn, and it does show. For me, this is truly the best Dubai has to offer.

Armani Dubai

What is going on at the Emaar owned and managed flagship of Armani? Package tourists en masse and lines for the previously excellent buffet restaurant, Mediterraneo? Clearly, this is an indication of Dubai's current problem: the market is drifting in two directions, and only extremes seem to exist. While few hotels, such as the two Four Seasons, seem to be able to achieve top rates - others struggle to fill their rooms and choose to go downmarket. This seems to be the case for Armani as well, which is horrifying to visit. Aside from Ristorante and Hashi, the hotel is taken over by tour groups and huge MICE events (not of the high end sort).

While many used Dubai and its warm climate to spend a few days relaxing, minimizing jet lag and do some shopping, before heading onwards to Asia -- nowadays it is hard to get into the few remaining quality options (such as FS), and rates are higher than ever before. In high season and during peak demand, I have seen rates that are comparable to the Maldives. Other 5* options are reducing quality to control their costs that it is hard to tolerate the result. I am not sure if this is the right direction. I have heard whispers that this year, the government of Dubai is asking 10 times the fee for hotels to obtain their alcohol license. Add this to the introduction of VAT in the UAE and your Dubai experience will be much more expensive in the years to come. This is a huge gamble for Dubai and we shall see if it works out. I admire what has been accomplished there, but comparing the value (!) to other destinations makes me wonder.