Where
Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, Dubai
Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf. Photo: courtesy of Jumeirah
The Lowdown
Secreted within Jumeirah’s Madinat estate, Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf emerges as the perfect option for those planning a more secluded Dubai stay by the iconic waterways. Designed for those who enjoy their privacy, and plan their vacation at their own pace, Dar Al Masyaf fits comfortably into the elevated luxury niche. The accommodations are inspired by Arabian houses, with traditional design elements from latticework and curved archways adding a familiar warmth to the fit-outs and buildings. One of four Madinat Jumeirah properties, interconnected by the sparkling canals serviced by dhows and peacock-populated gardens, Dar Al Masyaf strikes a balance between feeling like your own private home and being easily connected to the estate’s mile-long private beach, pools, restaurants, bars, and spa.
Photo: courtesy of Jumeirah
Suite Dreams
Rather than a Dubai resort sprawl or high-hotel, Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf offers a curation of Arabian-style room, suites, and villas, nestled into lush greenery and gardens. Set away from the main building’s check-in, guests are then driven to their rooms via golf buggy. Accommodation is split across the collection of two-level houses, with small dedicated pools and green gardens sat in front of each building. Open the large wooden doors, and enter through a small patio into the villa’s shared majlis, stocked with dates and tea – it’s here that evening drinks will be served. A dedicated host is on call, but this service does need more finessing at time of review, with the host sometimes unresponsive to requests. An internal courtyard can be utilized by guests, with geometric tiles, tinkling water feature, and expansive daybeds creating an inviting spaces. Back inside, the rooms and suites themselves are sensational, with hotel room, and one- and two-bedroom suite options on offer. Recently re-furbished and with designs by award-winning Dubai-based designer Sahar Al Yaseer and managed by the award-winning Compass Project Consulting group, the décor is warm and inviting, combining the nostalgic feel of a beloved Arabic home with the modern luxury touches that Jumeirah is known for. Neutral tones and natural timbers are uplifted with tasteful vibrant hues, and the marble bathrooms are oversized and elegant – the standalone bathtub and seated vanity table are especially nice touches. The spaces are large and sunlit, furnishing are plush, and detailing looks and feels expensive. Wide terraces overlook the green-blue canal waters, with plenty of room to lounge al fresco with the family.
Photo: courtesy of Jumeirah
Dine & Recline
There’s no shortage of dining choices, as the full Madinat Jumeirah complex is home to more than 50 restaurant options. A simple dhow or buggy ride will take you further afield to your cuisine of choice. Within Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, there’s a mix of French bistro, Thai, and Indian among your options, as well as the stand-out Pier Chic fine dining restaurant. For those inspired by their surrounds, Al Nafoorah across in Al Qasr does an excellent job with its Lebanese and Arabic menus. From the moreish mezze classics and refreshing salads, to traditional mixed grills and hearty shish tawook, the Arabian eatery is a good pick for family style dining.
Time to Relax
Talise Spa is well-known for its holistic treatments, and the location for Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf guests is no exception. Hosted within Al Qasr’s tropical gardens, the spa is a secluded sanctuary which specializes in de-stressing body, mind, and soul. With dedicated private treatment villas, guests can enjoy their massage, facial, and other nourishing face and body services in luxurious serenity, using brands such as Voya, Margy’s, and Nescens. Jumeirah’s signature therapies range from bespoke massages and scrubs, to restorative facials. The Jumeirah hammam is a regional favorite, using black soap and a traditional kessa glove to exfoliate all over, ridding the skin of impurities. A special menu for wellness therapies includes detox dome sessions, lymphatic drainage, and aura readings, delivering a spa experience that goes beyond being skin-deep. During the cooler winter months, the straw-thatched day beds offer a welcoming pre- or post-treatment relaxation space. The ladies-only facilities are ideal for girls’ spa days, with plenty of privacy for solo visitors and small groups alike.
Photo: courtesy of Jumeirah
Family Time
Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf is made for family vacations, from the large rooms and suites to the walkable pathways and lawns. Families of all sizes can stay together thanks to the intuitive villa layouts. With interconnecting accommodations, larger families and groups can combine their space or book an entire house to enjoy as their private residence. Madinat Jumeirah’s pristine private beach is fully patrolled by lifesavers, with ample sun loungers and expected amenities for guests. The pool options are also excellent, although we mostly lingered in the petite pool directly outside our villa as it was the perfect size for tiring out an energetic toddler before nap-time There’s also complimentary access to the Wild Wadi Waterpark, with pools, rides, and slides for both big kids and the littler ones.
Insider’s Tips
Take your time on a dhow ride around the Madinat Jumeirah estate – it’s particularly beautiful on the water around sunset, en route to dinner.
Vogue Verdict
Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf raises the bar for luxury stays for privacy-craving guests and discerning family groups, offering an oasis of calm in one of Dubai’s most covetable locations.
