This property doesnt seem to get much coverage and I typically stay at GH but wanted a change on a recent stay

SNAs upgraded to a Family Suite which was pleasantly decorated and roomy for 2 adults + 1 kid
Club lounge offered breakfast, afternoon tea (with nice finger sandwiches) and light appetizers in the evening. Alcoholic drinks were waiter served but with no limit that I could hit. The lounge is rather smaller than the GH and offerings less lavish, but I have to say I preferred it simply because of the view. It is at the top of one of the towers, with an open air (but shaded) patio overlooking the Palm in one direction and Bluewaters in the other. It was never overcrowded (which I have experienced at GH). It was great place to relax. Staff were uniformly wonderful

Pool was very overcrowded and could not really support the size of hotel. My kid enjoyed the pool slide, but I didnt find it an appealing place to be. What makes it worse are the Garden Resort buildings which adjoin the pool on two sides. They are a dump and should be pulled down. They seriously detract from the overall tone of the property since the towers are quite nice.

The property is pretty large, with a longish walk to the beach (same as the Meridien next door). In contrast to the Meridien the grounds seemed poorly set out and utilized. Just before reaching the beach there is a pool club, which we considered not the scene for children, so did not use. It is in competition with the nearby (on the beach and not hotel affiliated) beach club which is much more fun. The hotel pool club is therefore empty, even though the regular hotel pool is jammed. There is another - adults only - pool in the main building, but since most guests appear to be travelling with family this also does not help with the congestion at the main pool.

We ate at the Italian - OK. And the English pub, which has long been a favorite hang out of mine for watching sports.

I am torn on whether to recommend this given that there are so many great choices in Dubai. If the price was right I would return, but would look for alternatives first

Side note - the hotel pushes the Pearl show on property and on its website. At first glance it might appear that the show is close by. It isnt. It's in Habtoor City about 30 mins Uber away. However...it is excellent and worth seeing