Splurging in Dubai: Our Stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai Marina
If you’re looking for a place with luxury and family comfort in Dubai, The Ritz-Carlton by Dubai Marina might just be it. We stayed here three nights as a stopover on our way back from Mauritius, and even though it was in July – with temperatures soaring to 45 degrees – our stay was nothing short of fantastic.
We arrived late in the evening, but everything was ready for us. Our room overlooked both the pool and the sea, and waiting for us were fresh cakes and fruit – such a warm welcome. The room itself was beautifully decorated, and the bathroom was pure luxury, with a separate toilet, a walk-in shower, and a bathtub in marble finishes.
We couldn’t have wished for a better place to stay – see more here.
Poolside paradise
The pool area was one of the highlights. It’s large, beautifully designed, and feels surprisingly private thanks to the many little corners where you can find sun loungers. Once we picked our spot, the staff arrived with towels and even a small cooler bag with four bottles of cold water – such a thoughtful touch in the Dubai heat. The pool bar made it easy to cool down with a drink, and we loved that there was plenty of shade. Even in 45 degrees, it was comfortable by the pool, especially in the afternoons when the sun softened a little.
Dining and room service
One night we treated ourselves to room service, and the food was excellent – and not outrageously priced either. For everyday drinks, we found a small supermarket nearby, which was handy since hotel drinks were quite expensive.
But the real star? Breakfast. Wow. Served in a glass conservatory (of course air-conditioned), it was one of the best buffets we’ve ever had. There was everything you could possibly imagine: freshly baked bread and pastries, fresh-pressed juices, bowls of freshly cut fruit (our kids raided the strawberries and blueberries), cold cuts, pancakes, waffles, Indian specialities, a full English breakfast spread, local dishes, and an egg station serving the fluffiest omelettes. Coffee and tea were served at the table, and even iced coffee for our teenager. Honestly, it was a dream start to every day.
Treat yourself to a wonderful stay — the Ritz-Carlton Dubai awaits
Atmosphere and style
Inside, the hotel strikes the perfect balance between luxury and relaxed comfort. It never felt too formal or stiff – just calm, beautiful, and welcoming.
The area: Dubai Marina & JBR Walk
The location is also a huge plus. The Ritz-Carlton sits by Dubai Marina, a vibrant area with a mix of restaurants, cafés, and shops. Just a short stroll away is JBR Walk, one of the city’s liveliest beachfront promenades, perfect for an evening walk, people-watching, or grabbing a casual bite.
A practical note
We booked well in advance through Booking and managed to get a decent price. But a little tip: make sure you have the exact address written down or saved on your phone. Our taxi driver had no idea where it was – his words were, “There are a lot of Ritz-Carltons in Dubai, mam.” Lesson learned!
Final thoughts
If you’re considering a stay in Dubai and want a luxurious yet family-friendly base, The Ritz-Carlton Dubai Marina is a wonderful choice. We’d return in a heartbeat.
Ready for your own slice of paradise? Check prices and availability here.
What to Remember When Visiting Dubai – Essential Tips
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Sunscreen – and lots of it! The sun in Dubai is intense, even if you mostly stay in the shade or by the pool. Bring plenty of high-factor sunscreen – your skin will thank you.
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Stay Hydrated. Especially in July, the heat can be extreme. Always carry water or other hydrating drinks with you.
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Light and Modest Clothing. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are a must to stay cool. While Dubai is modern, respecting local customs by wearing modest clothing in public areas (covering shoulders and knees) is appreciated.
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Comfortable Footwear. You’ll likely walk a lot in malls, souks, or sightseeing areas. Comfortable shoes will make your days much easier.
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Respect Local Customs. Public displays of affection are limited, and it’s important to be mindful of local traditions and laws.
We stayed in Dubai on our way home from our dream holiday in Mauritius – which was also in July. But is July really the right month to visit Mauritius?
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