Burj Al Arab - Dubai's 7 Star Luxury Hotel

Dubai has emerged from existing as a small outpost in the UAE, to a city known for its opulence, spectacular architecture, and extravagant lifestyle. Dubai has the largest population of the United Arab Emirates. The architects of Dubai had the foresight not to rely on oil exclusively to maintain a stable economy, and tourism is thriving. In recent years, finance, real estate, and tourism have contributed the most to the economy. As a result, Dubai has become the 8th most visited destination in the world. Architectural firms from New York and Chicago have built resorts, hotels, villas, and malls. New luxury hotels, villas, and apartments have been built to accommodate the influx of tourists and business professionals. New hotels and vacation rentals were built in locations chosen for their close proximity to beaches, golf courses, spas, and shopping.

Burj Al Arab is am incredible feat of architecture. No expense was spared in building the magnificent hotel. It's the only 7 star hotel anywhere in the world. At the entrance, a staircase with fountains embedded in the stairs is flanked on either side by an escalator with huge aquariums built into the walls. Burj Al Arab is located on a man made island, and even has a tennis court on the roof. The hotel is an incredible 321 meters tall with the highest atrium in the world, and at night displays a choreographed light show that delights visitors. The luxurious hotel was designed as all-suite. Suites are built on two levels with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, and are lavishly furnished and decorated. The suites curved staircases feature elegant gold bannisters and deep blue carpeting trimmed in gold. Large expanses of glass throughout the suites offer magnificent views of the Persian Gulf and Jumeirah Beach, one of Dubai's favorite tourist attraactions. Suites are equipped with 42-inch flat screen tv's, internet, a fax and printer, making it convenient for guests on business trips. Even the bathrooms are decorated with colorful murals over the huge tubs. Unlike other hotels, there isn't a reception area in the main lobby. Instead, a reception area is located on each of the twenty seven floors, and staff enters the suites by a private entrance to see to guests every need.

The Presidential suite is located on the 24th floor overlooking the Arabian Gulf. The Master bedroom is decorated in royal purple with gold accents. The living area has a bar, and is perfect for entertaining. The dining and kitchen area have a separate butler's entrance. A library and Majlis lounge are included. The Royal suite is straight out of Arabian Nights. The magnificent colors and furnishings are fit for a king. In addition to the amenities found in other suites, Presidential Suite and Royal Suite have private theaters. Special amenities include two fitness centers with state-of-the-art equipment, a spa, an aerobics room, and a squash court. Guests may order room service 24 hours a day. Conference rooms are available for business meetings and seminars. A special facility on the 18th floor is for children. The center is supervised by a trained staff and equipped with games, toys, and computers. The tv is tuned to the Disney Channel. The Jumeirah Beach Hotel adjacent to Burj Al Arab offers complimentary passes to kids staying with their families at Burj Al Arab.

Burj Al Arab's restaurants were designed with luxury in mind, and serve international cuisine. The Royal Dining Hall, Al Iwan, is located in the lobby and serves excellent Arabic dishes. Al Mahara features a nautical theme with tables placed around a massive seawater aquarium, the habitat of hundreds of exotic fish. Patrons are transported from the reception area to their table by a submarine. Al Mahara has been voted one of the top restaurants in the world, and the experience is truly unique.