Amwaj Rotana Hotel

The Walk - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

There are few more polarising destinations than Dubai. To some people, it’s cosmopolitan, young, vibrant and fast-paced, while others think it’s brash, overpriced, hot and vacuous. But what neither party can deny is that for a seven-hour flight that can be picked up for around £300 if booked early, there are few places that are better value for a guaranteed slice of winter sun.

Whichever side of the fence you fall on, you’ll be more than happy booking into the Amwaj Rotana, set in the Jumeirah Beach Residence area, about 30 minutes’ drive from the airport.

Where Dubai excels is in its service and here is no exception. From the swift collection of bags at the hotel’s drop-off point to the well-versed and knowledgeable staff manning the concierge desk, reception and its restaurants and bars, they’re impeccably trained and polite with a nothing-is-too-much-trouble attitude. An upgrade is available to Rotana Club for around £45 a day, entitling guests to a faster check in, light breakfast and evening cocktails and canapés; well worth considering when the average price for an alcoholic drink in the city clocks in at around £10.

Rooms are exceptionally well laid-out and designed with tasteful, pared-back furnishings, while suites all have access to large private balconies. A gym is fitted with top-end equipment and the necessary air-conditioning so you can forget about the soaring temperatures and humidity outside.

However, where Amwaj Rotana really comes into its own is in its dining options. Rosso, its Italian offering, is a destination restaurant in itself. Executive chef Rainer Mueller plied his trade around the world before landing in the Middle East and produces one of the best osso bucco Milanese east of Italy.

We were pleasantly surprised by JB’s, Rotana’s take on a gastropub concept, which hits the nail on the head: the craft beers are well-kept, the service is sharp and its grill dishes are excellent. Sausages are available to order by the metre and its smoked meats are a brilliant incarnation of the barbecue trend that is currently sweeping the globe.

Private access to a section of the beach will keep sand-lovers happy, while the pool area has more than enough sunbeds, loungers and bar tables to keep all the residents happy.