For Aneesa and I, a trip to Dubai is always on the cards. Whether it may be to film a TV ad, review a luxury hotel, or simply be a beach bum with a fresh watermelon juice – we will get on a plane in a heartbeat. This trip to Dubai was special because I had the chance to visit my favourite hotel once again in Dubai: The Habtoor Grand Resort.
As you guys know, I reviewed the Habtoor Grand on a blogging trip in 2018. The reason why I chose to go back was because I received fantastic feedback from my followers and the service was exceptional. There is nothing more satisfying in the blogging world than seeing you guys share pictures with me about your own experience at a hotel that I have recommended. I had to do it twice over, while adding a twist to some of the content that I created. When I was invited back to stay at the Habtoor Grand in the same Ambassador Suite, I felt truly blessed. I felt nostalgic going down memory lane, and was happy to see friendly faces, impeccable service and great food…all with my sister aneesa_saddique at my side. I wanted to do create something different for my followers this stay at the Habtoor and created a video below showcasing the Ambassador Suite as well as highlights from the hotel that resonates nothing short of luxury. See video below:
The Habtoor is different to any other stay in Dubai. The colossal size of the hotel propels me to memories of an all inclusive holiday resort where you do not have a care in the world, the type of holiday where you forget that anything outside of your hotel bubble exists, where you are not short of choice as food is served several times a day and is too delicious to say no to – that is how I would describe the Habtoor Grand.
The adventure began with conversations with managers at check in who have an unimaginable talent in delivering on all guests needs. We made our way to Tower A and made ourselves at home. I was welcomed by the cutest edible magazine and fruit display which really added the extra touch.
We hopped on a cart and headed down to the private beach and lounged, slept and (unfortunately) burnt. Wear your sunscreen in Dubai! After bathing in aloe vera, we opted for an early dinner. Having had lunch poolside at Luciano’s during my last visit, I was keen to experience dinner at the restaurant to compare notes. We were welcomed by Eugene – a friendly host who called upon Chef Emanuel. Emanuel armed us with several recommendations to match our cravings. After a hearty discussions about all things Italian food, Dubai and my small prospects of changing my career to become a chef, we ordered our feast.
For starters, we had:
- A classic margherita pizza (recommend)
- A caesar salad (highly recommend)
- Beef carpaccio (recommend)
- Calamari (would not recommend) only due to personal preference of how it is cooked
For mains, we had:
- Salon (highly recommend)
- Mushroom Pasta (recommend)
- Sea Bass (highly recommend)
By the time we got to indulging in dessert, the food coma was unbeatable. With Chef Emanuel persistent on serving us something sweet, we opted for small bites – chocolate, caramel and pistachio cake alongside a green tea. This was delightful.
The following day we played tennis on the grounds, enjoyed the beach and beautiful grounds. I booked in a hot stone 90 minutes massage at the Elixir Spa before check-out. You pretty much know what to expect from a traditional massage, but the end of this meeting felt like I was in a 1-1 session with a chiropractor. I feel like I had my bones and joints realigned which reduced my pain and improve my flexibility. I highly recommend booking in a spa treatment – it truly is the most relaxing way to a end a luxury trip in Dubai.
To summarise, I want leave you with 5 points that the Habtoor Grand features which makes it my all time favourite hotel to work with upon my arrival in Dubai.
1) Friendly First Contact: From the moment you enter a luxury hotel, you must not only see it but also feel it. First impressions count and they tell you a lot about the residence you are staying in. From valet to the doorman, it is important that staff are welcoming in their mannerism and communication. It should not be about securing the tip, but more so the pride in a client centric approach. Check-in shouldn’t be a mammoth task and your luggage should be delivered in a timely fashion. You will really feel at ease upon entry at Habtoor.
2) Distinctive Guest Rooms Staying at 100s of hotels with a critical microscope slightly changes your approach to luxury hotels. Your standards are elevated, but you also look out for the small things that are often missed out. When a room is structured for maximum comfort it really comes through. This can be found in all of Habtoors’ rooms. What I love most is every guest is given the same respect despite the category of room. Also keep an eye out for amenities including ample drawer and closet space, a safe; puffy hangers, free bottled water, robes and slippers. At Habtoor, you can expect the added extras including:
· Safe deposit box | 24-hour reception | VIP check-in/ -out
· Express check-in/ -out | 24-hour security | Luggage storage
· Locker room | Currency exchange |Hairdressers | Multilingual staff
· 24-hour room service | Housekeeping | Car hire | Laundry
· Dry cleaning | Tours/Ticket assistance | Wedding services
· Limousine service | Wake up service | Grocery shopping service
· Shops/Commercial service | Newspaper service | Bell staff/Porter
3) A Variety of Food and Beverages
Even if you are busy indulging in the mammoth choice of restaurants in Dubai, it is also key for a hotel to have a sturdy reputation in food quality for those moments poolside or nights in. Look out for breakfast, buffet, swim bar, dinner and special dietary requirements. One of the best factors about Habtoor is their 12 restaurant options so you are not short of options.
4) Hotel Activities
When I am looking into booking a luxury stay, I always favour a resort. Due to the nature of our lives and the age of technology, we want everything within access. A resort offers just that – I’m talking a full service spa, dining options, children’s area, business services, a gym and access to attractions.
5) Location
Location really is everything. Whether you are opting for a chilled staycation or a city break, convenience is important. Habtoor is situated less than 1.5km away from Dubai Marina and only 6 minutes away from the very own private beach and a short ride away from Emirates Golf Club.
As ever, it was a huge pleasure to work with the Habtoor Grand for my stay. I cannot wait to travel back and catch up with all of the staff members who go above and beyond to make you feel at home. Habtoor really doesn’t disappoint and I am counting the days until I am back. As always, please do share with me your experience at Habtoor. Until next time,
HS xo