The Ultimate Escape: Inside Dubai’s Burj Al Arab

Spoiler alert: There's gold, and lots of it.

If there’s a hotel synonymous with the opulence of Dubai it’s got to be Jumeirah’s Burj Al Arab. A sail-shaped marvel rising above the Persian Golf, the Burj Al Arab has just celebrated its 25th anniversary. As the world’s only 7 star hotel, it’s built a reputation for excellent Arabian hospitality and unadulterated luxury - there’s even a helipad, should you wish to arrive via helicopter, of course. But does it live up to its dazzling reputation? After a visit in late October, I’m inclined to say yes.

To describe where I stayed as "a room” feels like sacrilege. These suites are bigger than my London flat -expect panoramic windows with sea views and lavish interiors. And I really do mean lavish. The opulent, private lounge area is a glorious mesh of jewel tones and the grand staircase that leads to the first floor bedroom and bathroom is a sight to behold in itself. The bathroom is home to an abundance of Hermés toiletries, a jacuzzi bathtub and a walk-in shower. Even the taps are adorned in gold. The bedroom is as sumptuous as they come and includes a 'pillow menu' (yes, really) to ensure your perfect levels of head support. It’s wildly impressive.

As a beauty editor, I’ve seen my fair share of spas. And not all are made equal. The Talise Spa, for one, shines brighter than any I’ve seen before. Perched atop the 18th floor and boasting panoramic views of Dubai’s metallic coastline, it is, quite literally, breathtaking. Gilded in gold (to be expected, at this point) and tiled with charming turquoise mosaic, the dazzling indoor pool that looks out towards the ocean is the jewel in its crown. The treatments, too, excel. Guests can expect an impressive menu that will tend to each and every taste. The Signature Massage, for example, is everything the Burj Al Arab stands for - it’s a masterclass in relaxation with the perfect amount of theatre thrown in there too. Nothing says 7 stars quite like gold-infused oils massaged into weary limbs, after all.

Perhaps a lesser known credential, the Burj Al Arab launched the The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project in 2004 in collaboration with Dubai’s Wildlife Protection. I was able to enjoy a sneak peek into the vast laboratory within the hotel and see the work provided by the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory first hand. And it's far from a vanity project. Since its launch, the project has released more than 2,190 rescued and rehabilitated sea turtles safely back into the Arabian Gulf, with 88 of them monitored by satellite tracking.

Dining at the Burj Al Arab is a gastronomic spectacle. Each of the 9 restaurants boast some of the most exclusive culinary experiences in the world. Al Muntaha is a must offering modern European cuisine alongside breath-taking views -the tasting menu isn't to be missed. Then there's Al Mahara where deliciously fresh seafood is served in the midst of a floor-to-ceiling aquarium. And be sure to sip on the famous gold dusted cappuccino at Sahn Eddar. Just don't forget to Instagram it.

It’s the service that makes the Burj Al Arab. A pre-dinner drink delivered to your room? Check. A post-dinner bath ran by your own private butler? Check. Pool-side iced water and SPF on tap? Check again. Guests can expect service that’s attentive yet utterly unobtrusive. For a hotel that oozes unapologetic grandiose there's genuine warmth here - and lots of it.

Stay at the Burj Al Arab from £1,283 per night, including breakfast, access to full spa facilities, two beach clubs and Wild Wadi Waterpark.