For most tourists, the United Arab Emirates means endless adventures across its high-rising skyscrapers, luxurious beach resorts, and soaring mountain ranges. It’s known worldwide as the leading holiday destination in the Middle East. Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest infrastructure, will definitely be the first landmark to catch your attention. It has the highest observation deck where you can gaze upon the entirety of the bustling city of Dubai. Malls and souks are also distinct hallmarks of this country, so you can easily find one anytime you want to go on a shopping spree.
There are many fantastic places to visit in the UAE and equally as many amazing accommodations. If you’re planning a trip, keep scrolling to see our picks for the top unique hotels in United Arab Emirates.
Unique attractions in the United Arab Emirates:
- Tourists in Abu Dhabi should check out Masdar City, which aims to become the world's most sustainable eco-city. Here, ancient Arabic architectural techniques and modern methods combine to create marvels such as a central Arabic wind tunnel that keeps the streets cool.
- The Green Planet is a tropical rainforest set amidst the sands of Dubai. Home to 3,000 species of plants, animals, and birds, this is a four-level biodome that provides education and awe-inspiring natural encounters in one place.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 04, 2026.
Your options at a glance
| Accommodation | Unique Feature | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Palazzo Versace Dubai | All furniture and fabric tailor-made by Versace | from USD 305 |
| Armani Hotel Dubai | Located within Burj Khalifa, rooms decorated with Japanese tatami | from USD 805 |
| Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton | Accommodation in traditional Arabian homes | from USD 118 |
| Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai | Secluded retreat with free roaming wildlife | from USD 1756 |
| XVA Art Hotel | Features an art gallery and rooms with Persian aesthetics | from USD 121 |
| QE2, Dubai | Cruise liner converted into a floating luxury hotel | from USD 67 |
| Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi | Designed to be the "Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi" | from USD 171 |
| Atlantis The Royal | Eye-catching architecture that borders on the fantastic | from USD 1446 |
| Meliá Desert Palm member of Meliá Collection | Situated in a polo estate and offers horse-centric activities | from USD 245 |
| Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi | Secluded resort complex out on the desert dunes | from USD 269 |
| The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert | Desert resort with incredible dining experiences out on the dunes | - |
Why should you stay in a unique accommodation?
Cultural immersion: Some accommodations are designed to provide a deep dive into local culture, offering authentic experiences like traditional meals, cultural performances, and local tours.
Connection to nature: Many unique accommodations provide a more secluded and peaceful environment than large hotels, perfect for relaxation. Options such as treehouses, cabins, and glamping sites bring you closer to nature, letting you fully appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.
Thematic experiences: From pirate-themed ships to medieval castles, unique accommodations can transport you to a different time or place, providing a fun and memorable experience.
Instagram-worthy moments: Many unique accommodations offer picturesque backdrops, perfect for capturing unforgettable photos.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a unique cultural experience, staying somewhere distinctive enhances your travel story and makes your trip stand out.
How we choose the best unique accommodations
When selecting the best unique accommodations, we consider various factors to ensure that each recommendation aligns with the preferences and expectations of discerning travelers. Our criteria include:
Regional uniqueness: We prioritize accommodations that are rare or uncommon, offering something distinct that sets them apart from the typical hotel experience.
Architecture and design: We look for properties with unique structures, themed rooms, custom-made decor, artistic elements, or integration of local cultural influences that differentiate the property from typical buildings in the region.
Special experiences: We evaluate the unique experiences offered by the property, including bespoke services, exclusive dining options, as well as extraordinary amenities like underwater spas or private art galleries.
Exclusive location: We seek accommodations situated in unusual or extraordinary settings, such as remote, scenic, or culturally significant areas, providing guests with immersive cultural experiences and extraordinary views.
Overall value: We also evaluate each property’s accessibility, guest experiences, service quality, comfort, and overall quality relative to its price.
By considering these factors, we aim to recommend accommodations that offer an unforgettable stay.
1. Palazzo Versace Dubai (from USD 350)
What makes it unique?
- Exclusive decor: Furnishings, fabrics, and interiors were tailor-made by Versace for this hotel
- Themed dining experiences: Hotel's restaurants and bars are Versace-inspired, featuring al fresco terraces that echo the grandeur of Italian palazzos
- Incredible pools: Hotel's three outdoor pools are lavishly decorated with intricate mosaic tiles and are set amidst palm trees and flowers
Potential trade-offs
- Expensive accommodation
- Some guests have noted that the service isn't as personalized as they were expecting
Insta-worthy corners
- We just love how every nook and cranny of the hotel is luxurious and has custom Versace-designed decor that will look amazing in your photos
- The sparkling pools and poolside loungers are perfect places to capture vacation vibes
Palazzo Versace Dubai
Address: Jaddaf Waterfront
7.57 km (4.7 mi) from Burj Khalifa
2. Armani Hotel Dubai (from USD 948)
What makes it unique?
- Great location: Located in the world’s tallest tower, Burj Khalifa, the hotel occupies eleven floors of the structure
- Designed by Giorgio Armani: Hotel's one and two-bedroom luxury residences were personally designed by the iconic Giorgio Armani and feature elements such as Japanese tatami mats alongside luxury furnishings
- Retail options: Guests enjoy access to nightlife at Armani/Prive Nightclub, Italian sweets at Armani/Dolci, bespoke flower arrangements at Armani/Fiori, and the exclusive opportunity to buy the Giorgio Armani Privé collection at Armani/Galleria
Potential trade-offs
- Guests have reported that the parking system is difficult to navigate for a first-timer
- High prices might be a deterrent for some travelers
Insta-worthy corners
- We're confident the sleek, designer rooms and panoramic vistas will look great on your Instagram feed
- Armani/Amal has understated luxury and views of the iconic Dubai Fountain that will have both you and your followers swooning
Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa
Address: Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashid Boulevard
23 meters (74.9 ft) from Burj Khalifa
3. Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton (from USD 154)
Exceptional breakfast buffet with a good variety of options in a lovely setting, offering delicious local cuisine.
Reasonable pricing for a unique, heritage-style hotel experience.
Conveniently located in the old town area with easy access to souks, traditional water taxis, and nearby attractions.
Authentic Arabic design, free 24/7 parking, and access to pool and gym facilities at a nearby sister property.
What makes it unique?
- Heritage-inspired design: Hotel is spread across 10 bayts (traditional Arabian homes) against the backdrop of Dubai Creek, and features Majlis, traditional seating areas
- Exquisite decor: Rooms have rustic decor elements such as wooden beams, vintage bathrooms, old telephones, traditional windows, and more
- Arabian hospitality: Guests can experience iconic Arabian hospitality through perks such as signature welcome Arabic coffee service when checking in
Potential trade-offs
- Hotel may not be suited for guests who enjoy conventionally luxury facilities and design
- No soundproofing
Insta-worthy corners
- Socialize and take plenty of group photos in the hotel's fun Majlis
- The hotel's balconies have vintage furniture and artfully aged walls that are great backdrops for solo shots
Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton
Address: Al Seef Street, Umm Hurair 1, Dubai Creek, P.O. Box 35449
8.04 km (5.0 mi) from Burj Khalifa
4. Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai (from USD 1707)
What makes it unique?
- Exclusive location: Located in Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and offers wildlife viewing opportunities and vistas of the desert
- Immersive activities: Visitors can opt for activities such as nature excursions using the resort's 4X4 vehicle, guided nature walks, falconry, archery, and more
- Luxury amenities: Each villa and suite has a private pool, private terrace, ornate furnishings, and more
Potential trade-offs
- Hotel only welcomes kids older than 8 years of age
- While some accommodation options have activities included in the price, other guests will have to book them separately
Insta-worthy corners
- Be sure to take some photos of you and your companions lounging in your own pool with the desert in the background
- Nature photographers can spend hours getting that perfect shot of the various animals on the reserve, but don't forget to share them with us
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
Address: Dubai Al Ain Road
56.95 km (35.4 mi) from Burj Khalifa
5. XVA Art Hotel (from USD 145)
What makes it unique?
- Gorgeous interiors: Boutique property that features works from top Middle Eastern artists alongside Persian architecture
- In-house art gallery: On-site XVA Gallery features a selection of art from both established and new artists
- Social spaces: Hotel boasts shaded courtyards reflecting traditional Emirati architecture that are great for events, and there's even an in-house consultancy team to help with planning
Potential trade-offs
- No fitness center or pool
- Guests have reported that the rooms are on the smaller side
Insta-worthy corners
- Head to the gallery to take photos of exquisite artwork
- The courtyards have colorful furniture and lush plants that will brighten up your feed
XVA Art Hotel
Address: Al Fahidi Bastakiya
7.88 km (4.9 mi) from Burj Khalifa
6. QE2, Dubai (from USD 115)
What makes it unique?
- Historic floating hotel: It's the only luxury floating hotel in Dubai
- Non-stop entertainment: Hotel offers live performances and entertainment at its licensed onboard theater
- Heritage tour: Hotel offers a heritage tour to take visitors through the five-decade history of the Queen Elizabeth 2
Potential trade-offs
- Those staying for a longer time may find the lack of activities unsuitable
- Guests have reported that service might be a tad slow
Insta-worthy corners
- Walk in the steps of the ship's iconic guests as you take photos in its beautifully designed halls
- While you're still on land, don't miss the opportunity to post plenty of photos with the ship in the background
Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel
Address: Port Rashid, Al Mina
7.25 km (4.6 mi) from Burj Khalifa
7. Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi (from USD 253)
What makes it unique?
- Remarkable architecture: It's located in Capital Gate, also known as "Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi" as it leans 18 degrees and holds the Guinness World Record for the farthest leaning tower.
- Artsy atmosphere: We're quite into the heritage aspect as the hotel doubles as a gallery with Middle Eastern art pieces, from Islamic calligraphy to intricate wooden designs
- Luxury amenities: Hotel has a 19th-floor terrace pool with breathtaking views of Abu Dhabi
Potential trade-offs
- Some guests have reported that even though the rooms are soundproofed, they still experienced trouble with noise
- The check-in process can be slow
Insta-worthy corners
- Capture unique angles of the building’s 18-degree slant from the ground level
- The hotel’s gallery-like spaces and art installations provide beautiful backdrops for photography
Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, By Hyatt
Address: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC)
121.18 km (75.3 mi) from Burj Khalifa
Unique resorts in the UAE
The UAE is home to some incredible resorts, too. Check them out below for more unique options!
8. Atlantis The Royal (from USD 2054)
What makes it unique?
- Fascinating architecture: Resort has an almost Lego-like architecture with the property split into tall columns and blocks that are perched on top of each other
- Iconic fountain: On-site fountain combines both fire and water into spectacular fountain displays
- Bespoke dining experiences: Resort houses multiple restaurants led by celebrity chefs, including the likes of Nobu Matsuhisa and Heston Blumenthal
Potential trade-offs
- This is one of Dubai's most extravagant resorts, and thus a stay here comes with a hefty price tag
- The resort draws huge crowds which I think might not be suited for those looking for a more peaceful experience
Insta-worthy corners
- Take photos of yourself lounging in the infinity pool with the Dubai skyline in the background
- The resort's fountain puts on a stunning display that deserves pride of place on any feed
Atlantis The Royal
Address: Crescent Road Palm Jumeirah
16.29 km (10.2 mi) from Burj Khalifa
9. Meliá Desert Palm member of Meliá Collection (from USD 377)
What makes it unique?
- Polo-themed resort: We think it's quite interesting the resort is located on a sprawling polo estate. They offer equestrian activities and the chance for guests to watch polo matches
- Aesthetic interiors: Resort's interiors are lined with art and experimental Arabic elements
- Polo and horse-riding school: Subject to a skill test, guests can attend the polo school to hone their skills
Potential trade-offs
- Lack of variety in activities apart from polo and horse-riding sessions
- Check-in is quite late at 3pm, while check-out is at 12pm
Insta-worthy corners
- The resort's majestic horses make for great photo buddies
- The vast polo fields provide a stunning backdrop for photography, especially during matches
Meliá Desert Palm Member of Meliá Collection
Address: Al Awir Road
17.65 km (11.0 mi) from Burj Khalifa
10. Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi (from USD 359)
What makes it unique?
- Fun activities: Resort offers a range of desert activities to enjoy, such as archery, biking in the sand, surfing while surrounded by sand, desert discovery walks, falconry, and more
- Desert dining: Guests can dine at Al Mabeet Desert Camp, which offers a local dining experience inspired by the Bedouin tribe
- Blend of tradition and modernity: Villas and suites have temperature-controlled plunge pools, traditional Bedouin seating, hand-carved furnishings, and Arabesque interiors
Potential trade-offs
- The resort is located in the desert, so guests will have to deal with heat, especially in the summers
- Some guests have noted that responses to queries might be slow, especially during busy tourist months
Insta-worthy corners
- Capture incredible candid photos of yourself and your loved ones as you try out the various activities that the resort has to offer
- The resort offers floating breakfasts that are as appealing to the eyes as the mouth, and they are great additions to vacation photo albums
Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi
Address: Al Wathba South
129.44 km (80.5 mi) from Burj Khalifa
11. The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert (from USD 1279)
What makes it unique?
- Bespoke dining: Guests can choose to dine amid the sand dunes with a customized menu
- Immersive experiences: Resort provides guests with hands-on opportunities to explore Middle Eastern traditions, such as camel riding, horse riding, and private falconry lessons
- Secluded location: Resort is located on a 1,235-ac (499.79-ha) gated nature reserve, promising both security and privacy
Potential trade-offs
- Those looking to be in the thick of the urban action might not find it convenient to do so while staying here
- As the resort is on a nature reserve, we find it likely guests might run into bugs that wander in from outside
Insta-worthy corners
- Book a meal among the sand dunes to enjoy excellent food and take one-of-a-kind photos
- The villas have private pools surrounded by the vast desert landscape and are ideal for capturing peaceful and luxurious moments
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert
Address: PO Box 35288, Wadi Khadeja
70.88 km (44.1 mi) from Burj Khalifa
Create wonderful memories in the Emirates
Long holidays are fast approaching, so better plan them ahead. Check out our list of unique stays in the United Arab Emirates and savor every moment with your loved ones.
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