Close to Downtown Dubai but without the crazy traffic or chaotic footfall, staying at the five-star DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai M Square Hotel & Residences confirms why Al Mankool and Hilton are both reliable choices for your next weekend staycation. FACT checks in...
Capturing the essence of cosmopolitan living, DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai M Square Hotel & Residences is the first five-star property for the DoubleTree brand in Dubai. The industrial-chic property with its alluring brown facade has taken up residence in the heart of Al Mankool in very close proximity to BurJuman and the Dubai Metro, and a short drive from Dubai Frame and Burj Khalifa. Guests can choose from unique rooms and suites, offering stunning skyline views over Downtown Dubai or the historic Creek. Choosing this hotel as your next staycation choice has many perks, including exciting dining venues, a well-equipped gym, and three outdoor swimming pools, as well as a desirable location for those who may want to explore the lesser-known parts of the city.
Entering into the lobby, we’re greeted with warm smiles and freshly baked cookies, a much-appreciated staple of the DoubleTree brand. While the hotel exterior gives little away, we’re met with a modern space that feels very New York, with bicycles protruding from the walls in abstract formations. The area is calming and we can’t help but gawp at the 15m wide mural of his highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan made from 29,000 reflective discs and designed by London-based Giles Miller Studio.
Superior Living
For practical use of space and clean, comfortable accommodation, the Panoramic One Bedroom Suite is an ideal choice. The 67sqm unit comes with a king bed and an elegant and modern design, providing comfort and relaxation throughout your stay. All Panoramic Suites offer beautifully designed bathrooms with a rain shower and benefit from the latest in-room technology, including a 55-inch smart TV, sound system, handy USB ports and free high-speed WiFi. The standout for us was the comfort of the beds – we had one of the best nights of sleep and woke up very well rested.
The desk area means that you can separate work and leisure easily, while an adjacent living area with a dining table and lounge-style seating is ideal for relaxation. Upscale amenities and all your regular tea/coffee-making facilities are neatly packed away.
Our suite high up on the 20th floor is modern and chic yet boasts an undeniably old-world charm that is hard to resist. It feels as though we’ve stepped into the study of American adventurer William Perry Fogg, before one of his adventures, where the decor features a treasure trove of travel-related objects, from studio lights and bedside chests resembling suitcases with leather straps and stud work, to the charming trinkets that line the shelves and communal areas.
The best part is that all Panoramic Suites feature an interconnecting twin room, making this accommodation option ideal for a family stay. That and the refreshing views of the Dubai Creek where traditional wooden abra boats whizz back and forth.
Food Focus
Dining at DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai M Square Hotel & Residences is one of the best reasons to stay here for a mini-vacay. The Spice Tree is an elegant and vibrant all-day-dining restaurant, which offers a contemporary reflection of global cuisine, serving freshly prepared Indian, Asian and Arabic dishes. The mammoth dining room is bursting with character, from the colourful leather booths and bronze cutlery to the open show kitchen. The appealing a la carte menu of delicious baos, momos, Vietnamese pho, flame-licked grills and fresh from the tandoor pieces of bread is reason enough to visit the hotel.
There’s also a branch of the popular Italian concept, LARTE Ristorante. Spread over the lobby and mezzanine area, the vibe feels very SOHO chic and is a hub of activity when we visit. The restaurant also extends outside to the pool area, offering an appealing terrace ideal for a morning cappuccino or afternoon gelato.
And Relax...
DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai M Square Hotel & Residences has a significant focus on family fun and relaxation. The property features a state-of-the-art fitness centre, massage rooms and an outdoor family pool nestled in an urban oasis of verdant foliage and cascading waterfalls.
However, it’s the adults-only pool on the 19th floor where you’ll likely want to spend the majority of your stay. The elongated stretch of water has a very Miami-esque vibe and features poolside cabanas with Port, Creek and Burj views. A colourfully tiled shower offers what might be the only place in the UAE for an outdoor shower accompanied by views of the world’s tallest building.
Yet it’s the warmth of the staff that we still remember most fondly, from the valet to the front office, waiters and housekeeping, all cast a lasting first impression within just a few hours of checking in. We experienced warm smiles and a natural can-do approach, which could have been easily lost considering that the hotel was having a very busy weekend when we visited.
With 327 uniquely styled hotel rooms and suites that will cater to business and leisure travellers alike and 131 serviced residences for short, extended-stays and serviced-living options, DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai M Square Hotel & Residence offers guests a luxurious ambience, extraordinary culinary highlights and an ideal way to beat the heat this summer.
GO: Visit www.hilton.com for reservations and more information.
