Al Maha Regency Hotel Suites, Sharjah

Advantages: Privacy and desert luxury - own private pool
Disadvantages: Pricey even by the standard of other 7/6 star resorts

...The Al Maha desert resort is unique amongst Dubai's luxury hotel offerings. Combining nature reserve, luxury hotel and Arabian hospitality the resort is highly recommended by this reviewer! The resort is set in the desert about 40 minutes drive (by hotel provided 4x4) from Dubai's International airport. It provides peace and quiet with first class luxury and service to match the best that Dubai has to offer. The chief attractions of this hotel are Peace and quiet Your own private pool Tasteful Luxury Nature Reserve Peace and quiet An ideal place to relax after the hustle and bustle of city living. The hotel has a meet and greet service at the airport which will welcome you to Dubai and arrange your transport to the hotel. As the hotel is set in its own 225 square kilometre private estate you must use the hotel... Read review

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Advantages: A peaceful desert Oasis (Not the band silly!)
Disadvantages: Very, very, very, very expensive!

...Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa is located approximately 60 minutes drive from Dubai International Airport. Transfers can be organised with your tour operator, but will be in two stages. The first stage is a transfer from the airport down the highway and into the desert and onto the perimeter fence of the resort - this should take no more than 45-50 minutes. Once at the perimeter of the Al Maha estate, you will pass through security and await the arrival of the hotels jeeps, who will then transport you up to the main resort, which will usually take another 15 mins or so. Despite the transfer time, particualrly after a 7 1/2 hour flight from the UK, this was not uncomfortable or irritating like some transfers can be, so I hardly noticed the time. The Resort truly is an Oasis in the desert and is perfect for a romantic break or to kick... Read review

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Advantages: Nice room, comfortable, clean, well located
Disadvantages: Not cheap, only one restaurant and NO BAR!

...Rotana is a chain of hotels in the Middle East. They are quite new and the ones that I have stayed in have been generally clean, efficient. They are not excessively luxurious but certainly comfortable, well furnished and equipped. I would place them at 4 star. There are two Rotana hotels in the Abu Dhabi; one on the beach, and the other one which I was in. It's located in central Abu Dhabi in the commercial and shopping area, a short cab ride from most of the malls and an easy walk to the Corniche seafront. The hotel seems to be offering studio apartment type of accommodation rather than pure hotel, which gives a bit of independece. Om the downside, there is only one simple restaurant, and no bar! ARRIVAL AND RECEPTION The building is tall, looks very new and modern. The lobby area seemed rather small but considering... Read review

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