Hotels in Dubai (that were not extortionate) were really hard to find over the New Year. We underestimated how busy it would be. Secret Escapes had a deal (still £200 per night for B&B) on the Movenpick and based on photos and reviews we booked the hotel. This was about the cheapest hotel that we could find. If you are planning on going to Dubai over the New Year I would look further outside the city or even try and get an apartment.
Location: I was a bit disappointed with Jumeriah Lake Towers. I was expecting something like the Dubai Marina however the area just had a little lake with not a lot happening around. There is the Metro which is a 5-10 minute walk away so travel links are good. It does take about 30 minutes to get to Downtown Dubai by Metro and about half an hour to the airport.
Hotel: The hotel is nothing fancy – it was clean and basic. It didn’t get that Dubai “luxury” felt is was more of a business hotel( Like a Premier Inn).
I was excited about the chocolate hour at Movenpick Hotels however when we enquired we were told they were not offering it due to maintenance issues however they had it one day (Thursday – the day we were leaving). I felt the least they could do was offer a little complimentary drink.
Room: The hotel is nothing fancy. We had a superior room with a view of the pool (Our window was dirty I couldn’t get a photo). The room and bathroom were basic. Standard amenities were available in the room.
Pool: The pool area was small with about 15 sun beds. On our first day we managed to grab two sun beds at midday. Other than that they were reserved from the time we got up until the sun went down. We were lucky we had stuff planned during the day so we did not need to spend a lot of time by the pool waiting for a spot.
Breakfast: The breakfast spread was good with choices ranging from omelette stations to curry and rice. Breakfast like you would expect in Dubai. We arrived just before the breakfast finished and food was being cleared up. On our last day we arrived 15 minutes before and were lucky to find a table to sit on. Yes, it was that busy. It would have been nice to have a host in the area to guide customers to empty tables.
Service: The staff were friendly and always happy to help. The concierge was helpful and accommodating too.
Would I stay in a Movenpick hotel again? After this experience probably not at this one. I have heard lots of good things about the brand and may try one at a different location if it is an option and the price is reasonable. Have you ever stayed in one of their hotels.
bejalgosai says
I have never stayed here myself but heard mixed reviews about this place! I guess the time Of Year you were there is also quite busy but sometimes you do have to way up the hotel rates. It sure looks lovely though and stunning Dubai location!
Travel Optician says
It looks nice! And such a mix, I would like to visit it one day 😀
Deeptha says
I think the timing of your stay (NY’s time) could be one reason for the high prices and the hotel being so busy. The breakfast spread sounds inviting. I stayed at the Movenpick in Lausanne last year and their buffet breakfast was also quite popular!
shreyasaha1987 says
I would usually expect Movenpick to be really fancy. I agree with you here that I did not the place to be that fancy as it should have been depending on the brand name. However, I liked the buffet breakfast options.
Adrenaline Romance says
Actually, that hotel is really nice even though you said it’s nothing fancy. Well, that’s just us considering we’re backpackers, and we generally can’t afford in staying here. The water in that fountain/pool (first photo) looks like it needs replacing or cleaning though.
Namita Kulkarni says
Some of these fancy-on-the-outside hotels can be a real letdown. Glad you shared your honest opinions. Thanks for letting us know!
Laura says
For the price you paid, you would expect it to be a bit better. At least it was just a base for all you adventures in Dubai.
Lisa says
I’ve never been to Dubai, and it’s a shame you weren’t impressed with your hotel. Still, I appreciate your honest review,i it’s good to know.
Suman Doogar says
Appreciate your views, in India we have this quote that says “High shops are low on taste”. I wish you had a good time there as Dubai is all about luxury.