Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Dubai

Set along the Palm's West Crescent, the resort overlooks the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai Marina skyline. A 1km private beach stretches out in front. This is one of the island's quieter corners, ideal for a true beach escape. Yet the city is close by. It takes about 20 minutes by car to reach Dubai Marina or Mall of the Emirates, and around 30 minutes to get to Downtown.

Inspired by the grandeur of the Ottoman era, the resort celebrates culture and heritage at every turn, from ornate craftsmanship to soft, graceful interiors. Families are well looked after too. The Jumeirah Circle kids' and teens' clubs are complimentary, and there's a private 29-seat cinema showing family-friendly films, plus tennis courts.

Every room opens onto a balcony, and at 46 square metres, there's plenty of space, with ornate craftsmanship, soft tones, and a Turkish-inspired bathroom featuring a large marble bath and a separate rain shower. Suites overlook the Palm or the ocean skyline, while the Royal Villas, set among tropical gardens around a lagoon pool, offer up to five bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, private pools, and direct beach access at the Royal Beach Villas. Family rooms with two queen beds make it easy to travel together.

Ten restaurants, lounges and bars bring together Lebanese, Indian, Japanese and Mediterranean flavours, from relaxed beachside lunches to elegant evenings, so every craving is covered.

Talise Ottoman Spa, one of the largest in the Middle East, blends ancient Ottoman healing traditions with contemporary therapies, from the Royal Ottoman hammam to the signature Sultan's massage. Guests enjoy complimentary access to the snow room, steam room, sauna, and thalassotherapy pool, with the infinity pool and beach steps away.