
I don’t remember the minutes, but I stood a long while just staring at the bed I would be sinking into the next two nights. Once I took in the view, I turned towards the bedroom. The other side had the sea, the train that shuttled to and fro Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah and scattered water sport activities and swimmers. On one side, through the private balcony we could see the hotel garden with a portion of Dubai’s skyline standing proud as a bejewelled crown. The suite had the characteristic of the peregrine falcon, known to be among the fastest flying in the world – it always chooses the edge of a building to perch upon. We were checked-in to an Executive Suite, at a cosy edge of the hotel with views that oscillated between new and modern to rustic and pristine – skyline, sea and sand. This is symbolic to the seven Arab emirates – each star and arch featuring a unique shade of sand/tile. The unique detailing is that there are seven archways with high ceilings that end with an intricate artistic pattern, looking down upon decorative tiled stars. The lobby and reception leads into an angled walkway which takes you to the grand gallery, the restaurants and the 162 guest rooms and 10 classy suites – all of which are sea-facing with a private balcony or garden patio. An air of mystery blankets the building like a plot in an Arabian tale. The Arabian Court has the most interesting architecture and interiors. The Palace is sure to transport you to a setting right out of Prince of Persia, with lanterns perched high up on the walls and palm trees standing proudly in the foyer.

However, each property is marked with its own unique identity. All three have a few common features such as a labyrinth of arched walkways with very high ceilings decorated with majestic chandeliers, ornate mirrors, traditional Arabic pottery and rooms styled in opulence. The other two are The Palace and Residence & Spa. We were checking into the Arabian Court – one of three properties under the Royal Mirage umbrella. Arabic geometric patterns and designs decorating the ceilings and floors of the Arabian Court at Royal Mirage. Up above the ceilings so high, like a wonder in the sky. The décor is Arabic and if you have a keen interest for design, then the tastefulness and geometry in its interiors are bound to impress you.

But what we didn’t expect was the sheer magnificence of its design and its sharp eye for detailing. So it was no surprise seeing the expansive and sprawling Royal Mirage, tucked in a green garland. Dubai loves extravagance – in size and style. If you want to reach me, find your own way.’ Yes, the property has an air of haughtiness about it. If you don’t use a map, or haven’t taken a taxi, or are not a regular visitor to the property, chances are that you will drive straight past the hotel. One&Only Royal Mirage is an oasis, hidden in the shadows of sky-kissing corporate buildings of the Dubai Media City (DMC) on one side, and the shallow turquoise sea on the other side. After all, the journey to our destination only took us 20 minutes, off peak hour. But we weren’t leaving on a jet plane, the car was fine. Our bags were packed, and we were ready to go.
