Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah Targets December 24 Soft Opening

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah aims to receive its first guests on Christmas Eve, marking the upmarket Hilton brand’s first entry in Dubai and second property in the UAE after Ras Al Khaimah.

Al Habtoor Group chairman Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor confirmed the target date today during a media tour of the 319-room property, located on the Palm’s Eastern Crescent, although currently the website’s booking engine is not taking reservations and says the scheduled opening is Spring 2014.

“This quality is higher than the one in New York and a good addition to the quality of hotels in Dubai,” said Al Habtoor. “This will be the meeting point for business and for leisure.”

Rooms span 52sqm and feature wireless internet, Sony LCD TVs, oval desks and iHome docking station for iPad, iPod and iPhone, and separate tub and spacious rainshower, as well as terraces. The property is spacious with plentiful marble, although colour schemes are muted.

The Peacock Alley lounge, which snakes 180 degrees at the back of the lobby, is a breath of fresh air from the standard lobby lounge design, and contains a large terrace.

Other options include an as-yet unnamed European speciality restaurant, Mezzerie (international), Lao (South Asian) and Serafina (Venetian-inspired bar) and Palm Avenue (poolside). Guests can also avail of 24-hour room service.

Leisure facilities include a 2,000sqm spa and 200m private beach. Chic meeting rooms with sumptuous leather chairs are available and a ballroom, which can host up to 600 guests, will open in the new year.