A 5-star resort in a skyscraper? Only in Dubai, where architectural wonders never cease, could this vision become a reality. Designed by Kerzner International, the new One&Only One Za’abeel breaks every limit. Ultra-luxury has rarely been showcased with such grand flair. You must visit it!
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The Pitch | One&Only One Za’abeel
Known for its beachfront resorts, One&Only One ventures into the heart of the city: a luxurious haven crafted by architects Nikken Sekkei, set in the Zabeel district, just north of Downtown Dubai. It boasts 11 restaurants, 2 pools, a spa, a children’s club, a beauty clinic, lavish rooms and suites, over 100 apartments, and even a nightclub. When in Dubai, this masterpiece of indulgence is unmissable, marking a new era in high-end hospitality.
How is the hotel?
The One&Only One Za’abeel, by Kerzner International, already known for iconic spots like Jumeirah Beach and The Palm, takes opulence to new heights—literally. The design is jaw-dropping: two soaring towers, connected by a horizontal one, floating 100 meters in the air, defying gravity. The 360° view is mesmerizing, whether you’re gazing at the desert’s morning haze or the city’s sparkling nightscape. While the vibe is distinctly urban, the outdoor areas feature a pool shaped like the terraced fields of Bali, blending seamlessly with lush gardens. The wellness zone spans three floors and is a destination in itself, with a La Prairie-run spa and cutting-edge beauty treatments like LED therapy, microneedling, and PRP injections—all wrapped in serene, neutral decor. This spa is a must-visit in Dubai.
Culinary offerings that soar
In its iconic Link—a sky-high avenue bridging the two towers—One&Only One Za’abeel has taken dining to another level. On one side, four top chefs helm Dubai’s newest must-visit restaurants: La Dame de Pic by Anne-Sophie Pic, Qabu by Paco Morales (a three-star chef from Cordoba), Duangdy by Thai culinary stars Bo Songvisava and Dylan Jones, and the Japanese Sagetsu by Tetsuya Wakuda. Can’t decide where to eat? The journey has just begun.
The space also features live cooking counters where chefs whip up Eastern delicacies, surrounded by massive digital art screens. This concept is inspired by top-tier food courts like Harrods or Galeries Lafayette Le Gourmet. There’s a Wine Bar, a coffee roastery, a rose water distillery, and Sphere, a futuristic club with sci-fi-worthy decor and moving chairs. Feeling peckish? Head to Tapasake at the pool club, where a trendy Nikkei menu complements the infinity pool, or visit StreetXo on the 4th floor, the edgy brainchild of three-star chef Dabiz Munoz. Just around the corner is Andaliman, serving up refined Indonesian dishes.
What are the rooms like?
Decorated by Jean-Michel Gathy (known for Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and Four Seasons Bangkok), the rooms exude sophistication. Gathy, who also worked on One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives (three-time winner of the “World’s Best Hotel” title), brings a darker palette here—rich grays, warm browns, and soft mauves. Everything from the furniture to the fabrics is designed with utmost elegance, combining modern tech and lighting with timeless beauty. There are twelve room categories, and even the smallest accommodations are grand: rooms start at 75 m², while the junior suites begin at a whopping 105 m². The pinnacle is Villa One, a 755 m², two-story residence with an infinity pool, personal butlers, and a private spa.
Which room to book?
Room 5111, perched on the 51st floor, offers an unbeatable view of Dubai’s landmarks: the Burj Khalifa, the Emirates Towers, and the Museum of the Future. From the bathtub, you can even spot the distant silhouette of the Burj Al Arab. The room’s amenities will leave you in awe: fresh fruit, fine pastries, a silk eye mask, pillow mist, luxury toiletries, and a valet box for laundry. With a dedicated concierge team available 24/7 via WhatsApp, every whim is anticipated.
5 things we loved about One&Only One Za’abeel
- Perfectly located between old and modern Dubai, near the business district
- Spacious rooms with breathtaking views
- Exceptional culinary offerings that redefine fine dining
- Urban and cultural experiences: from exploring Alserkal Avenue’s art scene to VIP museum access
- Unmatched service, with staff ready to assist you wherever you go
Practical Info
One&Only One Za’abeel
Starting at €488 in low season (June to September)
Za’abeel 1, Dubai, UAE
