Despite being situated on one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, Sofitel Dubai The Palm feels like a far-flung island escape that instantly enables you to switch holiday mode on. Inspired by the cascading waterfalls, moss-green peaks and coral-fringed lagoons of French Polynesia, the resort is a maze turquoise pools, palm trees and lush greenery that encourages to you to relax and soak up the sun as if you were on a topical isle surrounded by infinite blue waters. In reality, Sofitel Dubai The Palm might not be a remote destination — with Dubai’s towering skyline on the horizon — but it is a longed-for sanctuary, sat in infinite blue.
Serene, safe and family-friendly, the resort has an overwhelming sense of warmth and charm that is often lost in Dubai’s ultra-modern hotels. There are six pools to cool off in; including an activity pool for watersports, a slide pool, an adults-only waterfall and the immense main pool which overlooks the beach and its clear waters that are as warm as a bath. Sink-into-sunloungers and shaded cabanas surround the many pools and provide privacy when the weekend crowd arrives at resort. If you truly want to get away from it all, spend a day on the sand; spotting kayakers paddling in the distance, watching the sky turn from piercing blue to candyfloss pink and gazing at the Marina’s skyscrapers that light up when night falls.
The same stunning view can also be enjoyed from many balconies on the property, as MOJEH recommends a night (or two) in one of Sofitel’s Junior Suites. The interiors of the room mirror the style of the South Pacific islands, where dark wood is offset with pops of purple and hints of tropical green. The focal point of each suite is a huge standalone bath that could easily be counted as another pool to dip your toe into. Complete with Sofitel’s array of luxe Lanvin toiletries, bathtime is sure to be a highlight of your stay and that’s before your head hits the divinely soft pillows.
If you want to take relaxation one step further, book yourself into the Sofitel Spa and find a haven hidden within a haven. With restorative massages, luxury facials and tailored-to-you treatments, the spa offers the perfect place to refresh and truly unwind. MOJEH advises a So Radiant facial, followed by a few lengths in infinity pool and a green tea to finish.
For dinner, there are plenty of culinary choices and fine dining destinations to ponder over; from modern a twist on Indian cuisine at Zoya by Maui to traditional Chinese dishes at Hong Loong and a taste from every corner of the globe at The World Eatery. If you decide to try award-winning restaurant, Porterhouse Steaks & Grills, opt for the dynamite shrimp to start followed by a perfectly cooked striploin with béarnaise sauce and a New York cheesecake for a sweet way to finish the evening.
The next morning, breakfast at Manava is a must with every kind of pancake, waffle, cereal, fresh fruit and eggs to choose to from — the omelette station offers the perfect way to start the day, alongside a creamy latte.
Despite its many charms and tropical island feel, Sofitel The Palm could easily get lost in Dubai’s bigger, better, bolder culture — but what makes this hotel stand out from the flashy and the opulent, is its impeccable hospitality. A stay at the Sofitel is elevated by the resort’s dedication to art de recevoir (the art of hospitality), with each guest genuinely cared for no matter how busy the hotel may be.
Sofitel carries a desire to surprise and delight each person who walks through its glass doors, welcoming and valuing every guest with its French flair and exquisite finesse. From the world-class service to the warm and friendly staff who are on hand to deliver your every need (and always remember your name), you’ll never want to leave the property. It feels good to live the French way, and enjoy a slice of tropical paradise, even if it’s just for a fleeting moment — or a weekend staycay.
