We tested the Park Hyatt Dubai: a 5-star resort on the banks of Dubai Creek

The pitch | A resort between palm trees and skyline

When you think of Dubai on vacation, the images that spontaneously spring to mind are of hotels on Jumeirah Beach, the Burj Khalifa and other glamorous addresses. However, far from the ultra-modern hustle and bustle of the coastline, curious travellers can discover a completely different face of the city: that of Dubai Creek, the historic cradle of the emirate. Located just a stone's throw from authentic Dubai, this charming area blends local traditions, a seaside atmosphere and breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Creek, almost giving the illusion of a seaside holiday. Well served and in the midst of a revival, this district is home to the sublime leisure Park Hyatt Dubai hotel, tested and approved by Yonder's editorial team. We give you our opinion.

How's the hotel?

Set in the heart of Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, just 15 minutes from the city center, this Dubai hotel cultivates a different idea of luxury: no flashy skyscrapers, but tropical gardens, elegant patios, the calm of a golf course on one side and a wide river on the other. The architecture, a blend of Andalusian inspiration and contemporary Arab palaces, sets the scene for a chic, relaxed resort, designed for both leisure and relaxation, around a spectacular infinity lagoon bordered by white sand - the Twiggy Lagoon, reserved exclusively for adults and leading to a beautiful beach. In all, the estate boasts four swimming pools, an immense spa, an 18-hole golf course, paddle and tennis courts and a comprehensive kids' club. In terms of cuisine, the offer is up to scratch and very exciting: the Asado, between October and April, gathers guests around a huge barbecue where wagyu beef, potatoes and vegetables are cooked over a wood fire: an exceptional convivial meat restaurant. For a lighter break, head to Noépe, its terrace overlooking the lagoon and marina, to discover its fusion menu of fresh salads, seafood and expertly prepared gyozas. The Cinnamon Club, a revisited version of London's famous Indian restaurant, reinvents spicy classics with elegance, while The Thai Kitchen offers an authentic and generous experience of great Thai dishes.

How are the rooms?

Vast, comfortable, uncluttered and bathed in light, the 223 rooms, including 34 suites, are discreetly luxurious. Glass walls between bathroom and bedroom, noble materials, terraces or balconies overlooking the lagoon or the greens... You immediately feel at home, in the calm, hushed atmosphere of an upscale, all-comfort resort. We loved the lagoon-side suites that open directly onto the white-sand beach, with a postcard view of the distant skyline and the Creek in the foreground.

What makes the difference?

With its four swimming pools, including a 25-metre pool nestled in lush greenery and one dedicated to younger guests, the Park Hyatt Dubai is a master of the art of bathing. But the highlight of the show is La Plage du Lagon, a 100-metre infinity pool lined with immaculate sand, reserved for adults, and right next door, the Twiggy club, with its chic, sunny ambience, somewhere between Saint-Tropez and Miami.

Good to know?

The Park Hyatt Dubai is located in the Dubai Creek district, to the east of the city center, close to Old Dubai and Deira. This area is less touristy than Jumeirah, but has excellent transport links (metro just a 3-minute walk away), allowing you to discover a different side of the city: more authentic, greener and quieter, ideal for an excellent vacation. Add to this an unbeatable value for money for a hotel of this standing, and you conclude that it's possible to have an unforgettable week's break in Dubai for very little money.

Things to remember

With its upmarket vacation club atmosphere, impeccable service and excellent value for money, the Park Hyatt Dubai stands out as one of the city's best leisure hotels - ideal for a weekend stopover in Dubai or a toes-in-the-sand stay.

5 things we loved about the Park Hyatt Dubai

• The white-sand beach-lagoon, worthy of a movie set, with its private cabanas and deckchairs on the water.
• The "chic vacation club" atmosphere, with golf, tennis, paddle, kids club and sports activities.
• The restaurants, all excellent and ranked among the best in Dubai, from the Argentinian grill Asado to the authentic Thai of The Thai Kitchen, not forgetting Noépe.
• The refined architecture, blending Mediterranean inspiration with modernized Arabian codes.
• The tranquil setting, yet just a stone's throw from the city: a bubble of calm in the heart of Dubai.