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“Never settle for anything less than perfect.” This is how they roll in Dubai, and Dubai International Airport (DXB) is no exception. From modern yet affordable cabins for some quiet shut-eye hours to luxurious 5-star hotels, DXB boasts an array of accommodation options to suit every style and budget.
Dubai is right at the intersection of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, so it is easy to understand why Dubai International Airport is the world’s third busiest airport for international travelers. Catering to the needs of this number of passengers calls for a different kind of commitment, and DXB goes out of its way to satisfy the expectations of business travelers as well as leisure vacationers. To that end, passengers can look forward to exceptional amenities such as chef-curated restaurants and lounges, Zen gardens, specialty pools and spas, superior shopping options and a variety of accommodations.
Whether you want to avoid morning traffic or simply maximize your sleeping hours before or after a flight, here are the best hotels in and around DXB.
For long layovers – Dubai International Hotel
- Distance from DXB Airport: In the Airport/terminal 3
For those who want a snooze after a late-night landing or those struggling with waking up for early flights, no place is better than Dubai International Hotel. The massive hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites, all equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, flat screen TVs, coffee makers, and mini bars.
Globally sourced and seasonally updated, the hotel’s buffet features dishes from around the globe, catering to a wide variety of tastes and styles. And with every great hotel comes a great bar, so no matter what kind of drink you order, the First Class Lounge and Business Class Lounge bartenders will make it for you.
However, the wow factor is the hotel’s fantastic indoor pool that envelops you in a warm relaxing hug. Also, the hotel’s health clubs that offer steam rooms, sauna, and jacuzzi are ideal spots for deep relaxation. If you are looking to pamper yourself from top to toe, indulge yourself in the hotel’s array of treatment centers with a variety of services and options.
Knowing that many of its guests are business travelers, the hotel provides several conference rooms throughout the terminal. In addition to high-speed internet and audio/visual equipment, different types of secretarial services are available.
Dubai International Airport Hotel is a comfortable place for a long layover, however, this is a transit hotel, which means you cannot leave the airport or retrieve your checked-in luggage. So if you are planning to explore the city while staying close to the airport, check out other options listed below.
To catch up on some sleep – sleep ‘n fly
- Distance from DXB Airport: In the Airport/terminals 1 and 3
Neither a hotel nor a classic airport lounge, sleep ‘n fly introduced a unique accommodation concept. In essence, the lounge offers single and family-friendly pods and cabins where you can take a power nap for an hour, sleep a whole night, or anything in between. All accommodations are equipped with a daybed, fold-down table, power sockets, USB chargers, and a baggage compartment. Blankets, sheets, shower kits, and slippers are available for purchase.
You can also use each unit as an office pod to get some work done in comfort and privacy. The interesting part is that, unlike hotels, you do not have to pay for a full night’s stay here; instead, you pay by the hour according to your stay’s duration. The lounge also offers shower facilities to in-house guests as well as travelers seeking a refreshing shower before or after their flights.
A luxurious treat – Le Meridien Dubai Hotel, Royal Club & Conference Centre
- Distance from DXB Airport: 2.1 km (4 min by car)
- Free shuttle: Yes
A luxurious haven of relaxation, Le Méridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Center is located next door to Dubai International Airport.
Sophisticated, stylish, and welcoming, it instantly gives you the impression of being somewhere swanky. Each room and suite feature Le Méridien’s modern, chic design. The sheets are silky soft, and the pillows and signature mattress are so comfortable that you feel as if you’re being cradled to sleep. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the rooms are bright and airy, allowing you to enjoy Dubai’s famous sunshine. Modern amenities like Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, and ergonomic workstations are available in all rooms. The bathrooms are pure decadence with rainfall showerheads and the finest toiletries. Hungry? There are 18 on-site restaurants to serve you. Tired? Indulge in the spa lounge with body wraps, body scrubs, and body brushing.
With the main commercial and shopping hubs of the city just 15 minutes away, the hotel is the perfect spot to explore the bustling metropolis and even make business connections. There is a complimentary two-way shuttle service from the hotel to Dubai Mall, La Mer beach, as well as Dubai International Airport.
British coziness – Premier Inn Dubai International Airport
- Distance from DXB Airport: 3.3 km (5 min by car)
- Free shuttle: Yes
Premier Inn Dubai International Airport provides great value stays in a convenient location for both business and leisure travelers.
Everything is meticulously designed and absolutely elegant here. From super-comfy Hypnos beds and plump pillows to refreshing rooftop pools and state-of-the-art gyms, the Premier Inn brand has brought its British charm to Dubai. You can even see the runways from the comfort of your room, but you can’t hear the roaring engines.
The hotel’s brand-new restaurant concept Nuevo offers authentic yet familiar dishes in a purely Mediterranean style. A friendly British pub vibe can be found at Mr. Toad’s Pub & Kitchen. For something more on-the-go, you can grab a warm cup of coffee or a sweet treat from 24-hour Costa Coffee in the hotel lobby. Featuring quick check-in and check-out services and spacious family rooms, the hotel caters to both business travelers and families. A 24-hour business center, meeting rooms, and free Wi-Fi are all available at the hotel.
Affordable comfort – Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport
- Distance from DXB Airport: 2.8 km (5 min by car)
- Free shuttle: Yes
Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport is located opposite DXB’s Terminal 3, and is just steps away from Emirates HQ Metro Station, which connects you to almost all parts of the city.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel’s buffet, which also serves a variety of global dishes for lunch and dinner. If you’re looking for a serious workout, the hotel boasts a state-of-the-art fitness center located on the rooftop, offering spectacular views of Dubai. In the evening, enjoy stellar cocktails at the classy hotel bar, The Brick Wall Sports.
Rooms are small but air-conditioned and comfortable, with bespoke furniture and complimentary Wi-Fi. The rooftop meeting rooms are perfect for business meetings or casual get-togethers. Have some time to kill? Thanks to the hotel’s convenient location, the old Souk districts, Dubai Creek, Dubai Festival City, and Deira City Center are yours to explore.
Staff members are kind and friendly, always striving to make guests feel welcome. Also, free parking is available for those traveling by car.
Once you’ve found the perfect spot, make sure you book a professional Blacklane chauffeur service in Dubai to get you there in comfort. Blacklane also offers an efficient airport shuttle in Dubai should you need one during your stay. When you download the Blacklane app, you can have local, professional chauffeurs ready for you within minutes.
