Dar Al Masyaf, Dubai - Cranley Report

The Cranley Report

Dar Al Masyaf

Dar Al Masyaf, Dubai

Hotel Address

Madinat Jumeirah Resort
Jumeirah Beach
PO Box 75157
Dubai
United Arab Emirates

Cranley Rating

Dar Al Masyaf Summer House

Photo 1 of 23. Click to enlarge

Hotel Summary

Category	Resort Hotel
Awards Won	2005 World Travel Awards: - Middle East’s Leading Resort - World’s Leading Conference Resort - Dubai’s Leading Resort - Middle East’s Leading Conference Hotel 2005 Spa Finder Worldwide Reader Awards: - Best Spa in the Middle East 2005 Gallivanter’s Guide Editor’s Choice Awards - Hotel of the Year

Hotel Opened

2004

Cranley Summary

The Dar Al Masyaf is part of the Madinat Jumeirah Resort along with the Mina A Salam Hotel and the Al Qasr Hotel. The three properties share the award winning Talise Spa, gym and health club, Sinbad?s children?s club, private beach facilities and magnificent views of Burj Al Arab and the Arabian Gulf. In the middle of the resort complex is a Souk with over 75 boutiques, restaurants, cafes and bars. The resort has the largest swimming pool in the Gulf at over 2,200 square metres. There is a canal system meandering through the entire resort and guests can get about by using the traditional water ferries or Abras, take a stroll along the pathways or use one of the many buggies available.

Dar Al Masyaf or ?Summer House? comprises 29 traditional old Arabian courtyard summer houses, set over two floors and representing the premium accommodation of the Madinat Jumeirah Resort, particularly suited to guests seeking a more intimate and private hideaway. The summer houses are approached via the abra waterway or walk paths that meander through the landscaped gardens. Each summer house has a central garden courtyard and a Majlis room with a 24 hour butler and have both Deluxe Rooms and Suites. Rooms are spacious, starting at 60 sq metres to 135 sq metres for the Arabian Suite in the Arabian Summer House. There are two dedicated restaurants for the exclusive use of Dar Al Masyaf guests as well as a private swimming pool for every three summer houses.

Hotel Location & Layout

Location Description

Dar Al Masyaf is located along Jumeirah beach in Dubai next to the world famous Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel. The hotel is part of the overall Madinat Resort but has its own entrance and benefits from being away from some of the major construction projects currently underway in Dubai like the Dubai Marina and Palm development. Nearby attractions include the Mall of the Emirates, the new ski dome and several internationally recognised golf courses. The Wild Wadi Water Park is a couple of minutes away by complimentary transport. Guests can have all charges from other Jumeirah properties charged to their Dar Al Masyaf account.

Airports
Distance	25 km
Airport Transfers	Complimentary for suite guests

Cities and Sights
Distance	20 km
City/Sight Transfers	Taxi

Hotel Layout

Click here to view

Layout Description

The Dar Al Masyaf is part of the substantial Madinat Jumeirah Resort which includes the Mina A Salam and Al Qasr hotels. The three properties share the leisure complex, spa, beach and the souk that runs through the middle of the complex. The Dar Al Masyaf comprises of 29 individual summer houses spreda across the Madinat resort grounds that house 283 rooms and suites and are spread throughout the resort. The rooms and suites are described as either Arabian or Ocean, with the Arabian having views over the gardens and abra waterways and the Ocean having views over the Gulf. Whatever the particular location of the summer house the journey to either of the hotels, spa, gym or other resort facility is a short ride away in an abra or golf buggie; guests can also walk along the meandering pathways. The summer houses comprise an inner courtyard, Majlis or reception room with a 24 hour butler. Rooms and suites are located over the ground and first floor.

Lobby & Guest Relations

Open Hours	24 hours
Languages Spoken	English and Arabic
Payment Methods	All major credit cards and cash accepted
Foreign Exchange	All major currencies
Taxis Arranged	Taxi pool
Tours Arranged	A variety of activities can be arranged with the tour desk including Tours of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Sharjah and Ajman, Dinner Cruises, Safari's to the Desert, Wadi Hatta or Hajar Mountains, a Night at the Races, Camel Riding, Sand Skiing, Snorkelling or Scuba Diving.

Guest Relations	Check-in and check-out takes place in the Summer house Majlis or guest room
Concierge Services	24 hour butler service to take care of every need from unpacking to organising reservations
Medical Facilities	Paramedic on duty 24 hours and a doctor on duty between 08.00 and 20.00
Parking	Complimentary valet parking

Cranley Comment

Guests of the Dar Al Masyaf are taken directly to their summer house on arrival where they are checked in either in the Majlis area of the house or their room. Each summer house is set out with its rooms on two floors, a central courtyard in the middle and a Majlis or welcoming room on the ground floor with a butler. The Majlis is two floors high, creating a sense of space and with its Arabic artwork and antique Arabic furniture gives a real flavour of the region. Guests can have breakfast in the courtyard or at any of the breakfast locations in the resort.

Shops & Amenities

Description

Based at the Al Qasr hotel are:

Armoury Lounge:
A private club-like cigar lounge where guests can enjoy tranquil isolation while enjoying afternoon tea should they wish, designated as an adults-only lounge. The lounge is decorated in the theme of an old Arab Armoury with antique hunting rifles, swords and shields on display on the walls.

Al Fayrooz Lounge:
This is the hotel lobby lounge; its high elevation gives it panoramic views over the hotel grounds, ocean and Burj Al Arab. The lounge is decorated in the same Arabian style that permeates the hotel. The lounge seats 60 inside in a sofa environment and 104 on the terrace. The lounge has high ceilings and wood fans with Arabic background music adding to the ambience.

Other Shops and Boutiques:
Pearl Boutique
Giftshop & Newsagent
Carita Hair and Beauty Salon
(separate mens and ladies rooms)

Cranley Comment

There are a small number of boutiques within the Al Qasr and Mina A Salam hotels but guests have direct access to the Madinat Souk where there are many more shops, boutiques, restaurants, cafes and nightclubs. The Mall of the Emirates is a 5 km drive away with its comprehensive shopping facilities ranging from a hypermarket to designer boutiques.

Rooms, Suites & Villas

Number of Floors	2
Total Rooms	283

Check-in Time	14.00
Check-out Time	12.00
Late Checkout	Subject to availability
Smoking Rooms	Designated rooms available
Room Service	24 hours full menu
Laundry Service	Same day return if dropped off before 09.00
Unique Features	24 hour butler service

Cranley Comment

The rooms and suites at the Dar Al Masyaf are located in 29 summer houses which are designated as either Arabian summer houses or Gulf summer houses. Each summer house has Deluxe rooms and Suites located on the ground and first floors and a Majlis where the butler is on 24 hour duty. Guests can enjoy pre-dinner drinks or just relax in the Majlis or the central garden courtyard. The Arabian summer houses have views over the abra waterways whilst the Gulf summer houses have Deluxe rooms and Suites which either have views over the ocean, or abra waterways depending on which side of the summer house they are located. The rooms themselves are very well appointed in terms of furnishings and fittings and are styled in an Arabic theme in keeping with the overall style of the resort.

Type of Room, Views & Facilities

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Arabian Summer House-Deluxe	144	Abra Canal	Lounge seating area Authentic Arabian furnishings Luxury room amenities Marble bathroom Walk-in rain shower Roll topped bathtub Wide terrace Private butler service Private fax/printer/copier Data Port Voicemail LCD satellite television and radio Safe Hairdryer Minibar Bathrobes and slippers	3 Adults or 2 Adults and 1 child under 12	60

Cranley Comment

Deluxe Rooms in the Arabian Summer Houses are very well appointed and approached through a stylish central garden courtyard. The room is spacious at 60 sq metres and styled in traditional Arabic themes with dark woods and antiques from the region. The room comprises a bedroom with seating area, open plan dressing room and a well appointed marble bathroom with rain shower and a roll top bath. The room opens out onto a terrace or balcony where guests can dine al-fresco or watch the passing abra’s.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Arabian Summer House-Suite	18	Abra Canal	As per the Deluxe Room with the added benefit of: Separate 'majlis' lounge Complimentary transfer to Dubai airport 2 private balconies 2 LCD satellite televisions Laptop computer	3 Adults or 2 Adults and 1 child under 12	135

Cranley Comment

Suites in the Arabian Summer Houses are again very well appointed and approached through a stylish central garden courtyard through a traditional large Arabian door. The suite is a very spacious 135 sq metres and styled in traditional Arabic themes with dark woods and antiques from the region. The suite comprises a bedroom with seating area, lounge/dinning room, open plan dressing room and a well appointed marble bathroom with rain shower and a roll top bath. The room opens out onto a double terrace or balcony where guests can dine al-fresco or watch the passing abra’s. The room comes with two LCD satellite televisions, DVD player and a laptop computer.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Gulf Summer House-Deluxe	110	48 Ocean 62 Abra Canal	As per the Deluxe room in the Arabian Summer House.	3 Adults or 2 Adults and 1 child under 12	60

Cranley Comment

Deluxe Rooms in the Gulf Summer Houses are equally well appointed and have either an ocean view or abra view. They are approached through a stylish central garden courtyard. The room is spacious at 60 sq metres and styled in traditional Arabic themes with dark woods and antiques from the region. The room comprises a bedroom, dressing area and a well appointed bathroom with rain shower and a roll top bath. The room opens out onto a terrace or balconies where guests can dine al-fresco, watch the passing abra’s or enjoy views of the ocean.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Gulf Summer House-Suite	11	8 Ocean 3 Abra Canal	As per the Deluxe room in the Arabian Summer House with the added benefit of: Separate 'majlis' lounge 2 wide balconies 2 LCD satellite televisions Laptop computer Easy access to the beach	3 Adults or 2 Adults and 1 child under 12	120

Cranley Comment

Suites in the Gulf Summer Houses are very well appointed and located on the first floor to enjoy the best views. They are approached through a stylish central garden courtyard and through a traditional large Arabian door. The suite is a spacious 120 sq metres and styled in traditional Arabic themes with dark woods and antiques from the region. The suite comprises a bedroom with seating area, lounge/dinning room, open plan dressing room and a well appointed marble bathroom with rain shower and a roll top bath. The room opens out onto a double balcony where guests can dine al-fresco with views over the Arabian Gulf or the abra waterways. The room comes with two LCD satellite televisions, DVD player and laptop computer.

Restaurants & Cafés

Number of Restaurants

Restaurant Comments

Dar Al Masyaf has two restaurants; a fine dinning Italian restaurant and a Thai restaurant. Both are set nestled between the summer houses next to the abra waterways. In addition, guests can use the restaurants at both the Al Qasr and Mina A Salam hotels which include a number of dining options covering a variety of cuisines. Per Chic Seafood restaurant is the most unusual and is located at the end of a 100 metre pier giving diners a spectacular view of the Burj Al Arab and back to the Madinat Jumeirah resort. As well as the restaurants in the hotel, guests can also dine at several other restaurants within the Souk which is located at the heart of the resort. Below are listed a selection of the restaurants available.

Paithai

Restaurant Type	Thai
Restaurant Capacity	Total 124 (44 inside, 80 outside)
Opening Times	Dinner 19.00 to 23.30
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking areas
Children’s Facilities	Children's menu
Breakfast Options	No

Cranley Comment

Paithai means 'go Thai' and is set in a tranquil location serving traditional Thai dishes with a contemporary twist. There is seating inside with the benefit of air conditioning and outside on a terrace over-looking the abra canal where guests can enjoy their dinner watching the lit abra’s pass by at night while listening to music. The restaurant is for the exclusive use of Dar Al Masyaf residents and signature dishes include pan seared scallops with sam tam salad and red curry salad as well as Thai spiced chicken breast, preserved lemon cus cus and rosemary sauce.

Segreto

Restaurant Type	Italian Fine Dining
Restaurant Capacity	Total 246 (110 inside, 20 outside, bar and lounge 116)
Opening Times	Lunch 12.00 to 15.00 Dinner 19.00 to 23.30
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking areas
Children’s Facilities	Children have to be over 10 and a children's menu is available.
Breakfast Options	No

Cranley Comment

Segreto is the second restaurant/bar exclusive to Dar Al Masyaf guests. It is a fine dining Italian restaurant set between the summer houses and under the shadow of the Al Qasr hotel. Guests can choose to dine outside with views over the waterways or inside in the sophisticatedly decorated restaurant. Specialities include Lobster and beef Carpaccio, cracked black pepper and lemon vinaigrette and potato gnocchi with chicken, fava beans and ricotta.

Al Hambra

Restaurant Type	Spanish
Restaurant Capacity	Total 120 (40 outside and 80 inside)
Opening Times	Lunch 12.00 to 15.00 Dinner 19.00 to 23.30
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking areas
Children’s Facilities	High chairs and children's menu
Breakfast Options	No

Cranley Comment

Al Hambra is a family orientated restaurant themed in a Spanish Hacienda style. It has exposed brickwork and vaulted ceilings which give it a feel of earlier times. The menu is based on Andalucia cuisine and includes recipes ranging from seafood Paella to classics like tagine and blistery. The restaurant has a flamenco guitarist playing six nights a week to give it an authentic atmosphere. Guests can also dine outside with views of the waterways, lit boats meandering past at night, and views of the Arabian coast.

Napa

Restaurant Type	Mediterranean
Restaurant Capacity	Total 120 (80 outside and 40 inside)
Opening Times	Breakfast 09.00 to 11.00 Dinner 19.00 to 23.30
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking areas
Children’s Facilities	High chairs and children’s menu
Breakfast Options	Full breakfast buffet

Cranley Comment

Mediterranean style restaurant with an open kitchen and brick oven for cooking fresh bread. It is located next to the Arboretum restaurant and has outside dining, enjoying the same views of the waterway and Arabian ocean as the Arboretum and Al Hambra restaurants, with background music to add to the ambience. Signature dishes include Tuna Carpaccio, braised Lamb Shank and Roasted Loin.

Arboretum

Restaurant Type	International
Restaurant Capacity	Total 190 (120 outside and 70 inside)
Opening Times	Breakfast 07.00 to 11.00 Lunch 12.30 to 15.00 Dinner 19.00 to 23.30
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking areas
Children’s Facilities	High chairs and children’s menu
Breakfast Options	Full breakfast buffet

Cranley Comment

Arboretum is styled in a light Arabic theme with dining both inside and outside next to the waterways, with views of the Arabian Gulf. The restaurant is approached by two staircases that lead down either side of the front of the restaurant with a fountain that cascades down the middle, creating an impressive entrance. The restaurant also has very high ceilings and the tables inside are interspersed with six replica palm trees to further re-enforce the Arabic theme. The signature dishes include roasted salmon fillet, arabian mixed grill and peppered fillet of beef.

Khaymat Al Bahar (Tent of the Beach)

Restaurant Type	International
Restaurant Capacity	Total 220 (110 outside and 110 inside)
Opening Times	Breakfast 06.30 to 11.00 Lunch 12.30 to 15.00 Dinner 19.00 to 23.30
Dress Codes	Day: Casual Evening: Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking areas
Children’s Facilities	High chairs and children’s menu
Breakfast Options	Full breakfast buffet

Cranley Comment

Khaymat Al Bahar is located next to the main pool and beach. It is designed as a series of separate marques connected by glass passageways to give the impression of a Bedouin structure. The restaurant serves the beach and pool during the day and into the evening with a pleasant view of the pool, beach and Burj Al Arab. At night the pool is lit with over 2,000 small white lights. The restaurant has an open kitchen in one of the marques and a full buffet selection. Signature dishes include grilled prawns and crabmeat tagliolni, braised Arabic lamb shank and duck breast with oven roasted grapes.

Per Chic

Restaurant Type	Seafood
Restaurant Capacity	Total 110
Opening Times	Lunch 12.00 to 15.00 Dinner 19.00 to 23.30
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking areas
Children’s Facilities	Children over 10 - children’s menu

Cranley Comment

This restaurant has the benefit of being located at the end of the 100 metre wood pier. The restaurant is in a dark wood summer house with tables inside and outside at the front and back of the house. The tables at the back have spectacular views of the Burj Al Arab whilst those at the front enjoy views of the Madinat resort. The walk to the restaurant along the pier is very pleasant on a warm evening with the Burj Al Arab lit up in the background. The restaurant serves Mediterranean seafood and other specialties include an Arabic cold seafood platter, poached Atlantic lobster and poached Sea Bass fillet.

Pool Kiosk

Restaurant Type	Light dining
Restaurant Capacity	Total 76 outside
Opening Times	Food 08.00 to 19.45 Lunch 11.30 to 16.45
Dress Codes	Casual/ Swimwear

Air-Conditioning	No
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking areas
Children’s Facilities	High chairs and children’s menu
Breakfast Options	No

Cranley Comment

This poolside restaurant at the Al Qasr pool either serves guests at the restaurant or does sun lounger delivery. The dining area itself is designed as two bedouin tents that match the design of the Khaymat Al Bahar across the pool. The restaurant serves a variety of foods. Under one tent is the dining tables made of wood with ceramic surfaces and under the other is a circular bar.

Zheng He's

Restaurant Type	Chinese
Restaurant Capacity	Total 173 (Inside 115, outside 58)
Opening Times	Lunch 12:00 to 15:00 Dinner 19:00 to 23:30
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking area available
Children’s Facilities	Children's menu available
Breakfast Options	No

Cranley Comment

Named after a famous Chinese admiral and explorer of the 15th century Zheng He’s is a quality Chinese restaurant that claims to mix far eastern ambience with western tastes. This results in Chinese cuisine with western style presentation; food is served to individual diners rather than in dishes on the table. The interior is themed and the atmosphere is stylish but informal and all staff and chef’s are of Chinese origin. The signature dishes include sautéed seafood and cashew nuts with dried chilli vinegar sauce, sautéed diced beef tenderloin with black pepper sauce and Beijing roasted duck.

Wharf

Restaurant Type	Mediterranean Seafood
Restaurant Capacity	Total 124 (64 inside, 60 outside)
Opening Times	Lunch 12:00 to 15:00 Dinner 19:30 to 23:30
Dress Codes	Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking area available
Children’s Facilities	Children’s menu
Breakfast Options	No

Cranley Comment

The Wharf is located next to the Abra lake with tables inside and outside along the harbor side. The outside tables have ceramic tops and cast iron chairs to give the outside environment a quality feel. The inside of the restaurant has a tiled floor and high vaulted ceiling which creates a Mediterranean feel. There is an open brick oven for cooking breads and pizzas. Signature dishes include gratinated sea scallops with spinach and mushroom fleuron croustillant, wharf seafood paella and Moroccan spiced braised lamb shank.

Al Muna

Restaurant Type	International
Restaurant Capacity	Total 250 (120 outside, 130 inside)
Opening Times	Restaurant is open 24 hours with an a-la-carte menu. A buffet is served: Breakfast 06.30 to 11.00 Lunch 12.30 to 15.00 Dinner 19.00 to 23.30
Dress Codes	Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking area available
Children’s Facilities	Children's menu
Breakfast Options	Comprehensive buffet breakfast.

Cranley Comment

Set overlooking the Abra Lake with its authentic dowl, the restaurant is decorated in an Arabic style and offers a buffet with Arabic as well as international cuisine at breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as an al a carte menu. There is a large outdoor terrace with tables and chairs of wood and a number are under a tall wooden pergola for shade with background music adding to the ambience. Signature dishes include marinated chicken breasts with warmed hummus and pickled cucumber as well as sautéed halwayoo and crushed potato and prawns, rocket salad and fennel cream.

Bars

Number of Bars	4
Bar Comments

Guests can enjoy the bars at the Al Qasr and Mina A Salam hotels, some of which are located on reception level giving elevated views over the resort and Burj Al Arab or are located around the abra harbour. In addition guests have easy access to the many bars in the Souk and the bar at the Segreto restaurant which is available exclusively to Dar Al Masyaf guests.

Koubba

Bar Type	Rooftop bar
Bar Capacity	Total 180 Inside 60, Outside 120
Opening Times	12.00 to 02.00
Dress Codes	Smart casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking areas
Admissions Policy	Over 21's only after 18.00

Cranley Comment

The Koubba rooftop bar at the Al Qasr hotel is located on the top floor and is designed to give guests the feeling of an Arabian tent. The bar's elevation gives it spectacular views over the pool, gardens, beach and the Arabian Gulf. The bar has seating inside and outside on sofas and lounge chairs.

Bahri Bar

Bar Type	Cocktail Bar
Bar Capacity	Total 140, Inside 80, Outside 60
Opening Times	Lunch & Dinner 12:00 to 02:00
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking area available
Admissions Policy	Under 21’s are not allowed after 18:00

Cranley Comment

Set on the first floor of the Mina A Salam hotel this cocktail bar is decorated in an Arabic style with high ceilings and wood floors. There is a walk-around bar and outside is a terrace with wood tables and relaxing chairs to sit and enjoy the impressive views over the Abra harbor and beyond to the beach and ocean.

Nakhuda Bar

Bar Type	Wine bar
Bar Capacity	Total 45, Inside 30, Outside 15
Opening Times	Lunch 12:00 to 15:00 Dinner 19:00 to 01:00
Dress Codes	Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking area available
Admissions Policy	Allowed inside the bar until 18:00 and outside after 18:00

Cranley Comment

The bar is located on the harbor-side next to the Wharf restaurant. Guests can drink either inside or outside. Tables are made of wood barrels with high bar stools to sit on. High ceilings, wood floors and the bar give the outlet a docklands feel. The bar has a couple of television screens for watching sports events.

Shimmers Beach Bar

Bar Type	Beach Restaurant & Bar
Bar Capacity	Total 72
Opening Times	Drinks 09.00 to 18.00 Food 11.00 to 18.00 Evening 19.00 to 23.00
Dress Codes	Casual & Swimwear

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Non-smoking area available
Admissions Policy	Children’s menu and high chairs are available

Cranley Comment

Shimmers is a beach bar/restaurant set on the beach next to the boardwalk on wood decking with wood tables and chairs. There are a number of shaded tables under pagoda’s as well as a number of un-shaded tables. The bar provides a butler service to the sunbeds on the beach or around the pool. Signature dishes include the grilled field mushrooms with parmesan, gargea leaves and chick pea sprouts or the home smoked rib eye steak.

Business & Event Facilities

Wireless Internet

In the summer house lobby

In-Room Services

High speed internet
Fax, scanner and printer
Laptop in the suites

Business Centre

Dar Al Masyaf guests have use of the business centre facilities at the Al Qasr and Mina A Salam hotels which includes three workstations, photocopying, faxes, scanning, secretarial support, ATM, 2 meeting rooms, outside terrace area with 12 seats overlooking the ocean.

Meetings & Events

Conference facilities serve all of the hotels in the Madinat resort and include:
Madinat Conference Hall: 9,000 square metres, incorporating Joharah Ballroom, Murjaan Ballroom, pre function area and meeting rooms.
Madinat Arena: Multi-purpose venue that includes a ground floor arena, pre-function and upstairs VIP areas catering for up to 4,500 guests.
Fort Island: An outdoor function venue catering for a maximum of 200 people on an island in the middle of a lake near the Souk.

Cranley Comment

The 24 hour butler service can organise faxes and secretarial support from the summer houses. The Madinat Jumeirah resort as a whole also has comprehensive business and banqueting facilities. Business centres are located in the Al Qasr and Mina A Salam hotels and are decorated and equipped to a high standard. They are staffed with a receptionist to provide assistance and have several PC's with internet connection as well as two working desks without PC's. The banqueting facilities serve the whole of the Madinat resort and comprise several options including the unique Fort Island.

Children’s Facilities & Clubs

Restaurant Facilities	See Restaurants
Playground	See Children's club

Children's Pool	See Pools
Games Room	See Children's club

Children's Club

Ages : Four and over
Under four: Only with guardian

Opening Hours: 08.00 to 19.00 or 21.30 (with the dinner option)

The Sinbads Children's club caters for children of four years and over without their guardians and for children under four years of age with their guardian present. The club is in a separate building next to the main pool. It has a reception area and then a main lounge where different activities are organised for every hour. It also has a TV for watching films. Off to one side is the computer room with computers and playstation games and off to the other side is the children’s pool.

The club has a full range of activities for guests under seven years of age and for those between seven and twelve. Typical activities for the older age group include shell painting, beach football, fun on boogie boards, fun on kayaks, beach relays and sand castle competitions. For the younger age, group activities include fun with puppets, shell painting, leaf painting, hair braiding, souvenir making, bracelet making and parachute games.

Babysitting service

Hotel staff provide a babysitting service with at least one hour's notice.

Cranley Comment

The Madinat resort has a full facility children’s club. The purpose built club includes a swimming pool that is also a mini water park with various apparatus for children to play with. As well as the children’s club there are beach activities with football goals, pentaque, beach volleyball and water sports centre which hires equipment and provides lessons. Guests also enjoy free access to the Wild Wadi Water Park which is a few minutes walk away along the boardwalk or by the hotel shuttle bus.

Entertainment

Daytime Activities

Henna Studio

Open from 10.00 to 18.00 near the Dwol harbour at Mina A Salam.

Arabian Adventures

Excursions can be arranged through the Arabian Adventures desk.

Evening Activities

Night Clubs

Night clubs are located in the Souk area located between the Mina A Salam and Al Qasr hotels and is open to hotel guest and the public alike. The Souk contains over 75 boutiques, shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. The bars and restaurants are located on open Piazza’s next to the canal.

Beaches

Madinat Resort Beach

Location	Private Beach
Description	The beach is an extension of the resort grounds. At the start of the beach are palm trees which break the landscape from the swimming pool. There is also a boardwalk that links the hotel properties and is ideal for a stroll.
Private/Public	Private
Size/Frontage	Approximately 1 km frontage which it shares with the neighbouring Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab. The Beach is approximately 30 to 40 metres deep.

Facilities	Wood sun loungers and parasols and a number of Arabian tents for those wanting more shade. Showers, toilets, food and drinks are delivered to beachgoers. There is no specific beach bar but guests can go to the nearby Pool Kiosk. There are half size football goals, pentanque and volleyball for beach activity.
Safety	Across the Madinat Jumeirah stretch of the beach, six lifeguards provide for continuous coverage. Lifeguards are on duty from 09.00 to 18.00.

Cranley Comment

The beach caters for most needs and has enough space for full hotels. The beach is very clean and the quality of furnishings gives it a pleasant ambience. Guests can also enjoy the Shimmers Beach Bar for drinks and food, included in the restaurant section above.

Pools

Cranley Comments

There are three outdoor pools at the Madinat Jumeirah resort as well as an adult lap pool and children’s pool at the fitness centre. The outdoor pools are a short distance from each other and are used by guests of both hotels. The Al Qasr pool is the largest in the middle-east and is well landscaped whilst the Mina A Salam Pool has a sophisticated feel and enjoys an elevated position above the beach and Abra harbour. For children there is a specialist children’s activity pool with a sail canopy to protect children from the sun.

Dar Al Masyaf Pools

Opening Times	08.00 to 22.00
Temperature	Temperature controlled at 28c
Depths	Standard depth of 1.05m
Size	Approx 14m by 7m

Facilities	Iron sunbeds, wood parasols, showers, toilets and towels
Safety	Lifeguards on duty during opening hours

Cranley Comment

Every three summer houses share an exclusive swimming pool set between two of the summer houses. The pools are rectangular in shape and have all the amenities of the main swimming pools with cast iron sunbeds, lifeguards on duty and refreshments available from the butlers. The pools are set in a tranquil setting generally overlooking the Abra waterway surrounded by palm trees and provide a more secluded and private environment than the main resort pools.

Al Qasr Pool

Opening Times	08.00 to 22.00
Temperature	Temperature controlled at 28c
Depths	Min 0.9m Max 1.5m
Size	Surface area of 2,200 square meters

Facilities	Iron sun loungers, wood parasols, showers, toilets, towels and changing facilities. The pool kiosk and the Khaymat Al Bahar restaurant serve pool guests with food and drinks. Up to eight qualified lifeguards are on duty at any one time.
Safety	Lifeguards on duty during opening hours

Cranley Comment

The pool is located in front of the Al Qasr Hotel and just a short Abra ride from the Mina A Salam. The Al Qasr pool claims to be the largest swimming pool in the Gulf at over 2,200 square metres. It is an irregular shape which adds to the visual appeal. The pool is set next to the beach and just over the Abra waterway from the main hotel building. The pool is quite impressive given its size and its landscaping with palm trees and flowerbeds. The two restaurants next to the pool blend in with the Arabic theme by being designed as bedouin tents. The pool is well managed with several lifeguards and is well supplied with high quality iron sun loungers.

Mina A Salam Pool

Opening Times	08.00 to 22.00
Temperature	Temperature controlled at 28c
Depths	Max depth 1.5 metres Min depth 0.9 metres
Size	Approx 14m by 10m

Facilities	Showers, toilets, towels, changing facilities, pool bar/restaurant, wood sun loungers, wood parasols and Jacuzzi
Safety	Lifeguards on duty during opening hours

Cranley Comment

The pool is set next to the Abra harbor and the hotel’s private beach, just a couple of minutes on an Abra ride from the Al Qasr. It is elevated above ground level and commands good views of the beach and ocean. Pool guests are served with drinks from the pool bar and there is a large terrace next to that serving food and dinks, elevated above the pool level to further enhance the views. Near the entrance to the pool is a gazebo where guests can sit in the shade and enjoy views over the pool and Abra harbor. The surrounding area is well landscaped with an ornate wood guardrail running around the edge of the terrace area.

Children's Pool

Opening Times	08.00 to 19.00
Temperature	Temperature controlled at 30c
Depths	Maximum depth of 60cms
Size	25 metres by 10 metres

Facilities	Showers, toilets, towels, changing facilities, drinks and snacks from inside the Sinbad’s kids club. Some chairs are available around the pool for parents to sit on.
Safety	Up to three qualified lifeguards are on duty at any one time.

Cranley Comment

Located in the Sinbad’s Children’s club which is next to the main pool, the children’s pool is a mini water park with various fun showers and slides for smaller children to play. The pool has an array of apparatus and is set underneath a large canopy designed as a sail to provide shade over the pool.

Sports & Gym

Gym & Health Club

Opening Times	06:30 to 22:30
Description	Fitness Centre/Gym with the following apparatus at time of viewing: 9 treadmills 3 rowing machines 8 bikes 6 cross trainers 3 steppers 17 resistance machines 28 spinning bikes Free weights 5 televisions to which the gym provide wireless headphones A lap pool of 25 metres by 12 metres and a small children’s pool with temperature kept at 27c Fencing Aerobic studio that can accommodate class sizes of up to 30
Size	3,000 square metres

Cranley Comment

The Gym is a substantial purpose built complex with a full range of the latest gym equipment, squash courts, indoor pools, sauna’s, steam rooms, televisions with wireless headphones, a gym café and shop. The gym has five personal trainers that can assess and design a specific program for guests and runs a full studio programme including spinning /RPM classes. The gym also operates as a private club for local residents.

Water Sport

Opening Times	09.00 to Sunset
Description	Boat trips Water Skiing Wake boarding Knee boarding Triple tube Banana ride Sailing Windsurfing Boogie boards Kayaks Windsurfing and sailing lessons

Cranley Comment

The hotel has two water sports centres on the beach offering similar activities. The two centres ensure that guests from either hotel don’t have to walk far to reach a water sports facility. The centres themselves are well equipped and offer tuition.

Land Sport

Opening Times	Tennis 07.00 to 21.30 Squash 06.30 to 22.30
Description	Five hard court floodlit tennis courts Three Squash Courts

Cranley Comment

The hotel has tennis courts located at the front of the hotel that can be booked in advance. There is tuition available for all age groups. The squash courts are located within the health club where no tuition is available.

Golf

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club

Description

Opened in 1993 and extensively re-modelled in 2005, the course is set next to Dubai Creek, close to the city centre and Dubai International Airport. The championship course was re-designed by Thomas Bjorn and is set in undulating fairways lined with palms, attractive water hazards and shrubbery that give it a tropical and secluded feel despite being close to the city centre. The complex also features a nine hole floodlit par-three course. The course was voted in November 2005 as one of the top 100 world courses to play and hosted the Dubai Desert Classic in 1999 and 2000.

Location	20 km
Holes	Two Courses: 18 Hole and 9 Hole
Length/Par	18 Hole Course: 6,839 Yards Par 71 sss 72

Facilities

The centrepiece clubhouse is designed in the shape of a Dhow, making this one of Dubai’s landmark buildings. There is a golf academy with high tech studio, double ended driving range, six PGA qualified professionals and a comprehensive pro shop.

Emirates Golf Club

Description

This was the first grass course in the Gulf region when it opened in 1988. The club features two championship courses; the Majlis and the Wadi. The Majlis was the original course and was designed by Florida based designer Karl Litten. The Wadi opened in 1996 and was re-designed in 2007 by Nick Faldo. Despite a number of new courses, it still ranks as one of the best in Dubai. It has hosted the Dubai Desert Classic fifteen times for the last six years in succession.

Location	7 km
Holes	Majlis 18, Wadi 18
Length/Par	Majlis: 7,185 Yards par 72 sss 74 , Wadi: 7,263 Yards par 72 sss 74

Facilities

Teaching academy, two driving ranges (one of which is floodlit), pitching and chipping areas, fairway and greenside practice bunkers. Several bars and restaurants.

Montgomerie Dubai

Description

Covering more than 265 acres of landscaped turf, gardens and lakes, this spectacular golf course provides the player with undulating "links land" style fairways which challenge and intrigue all levels of player. Placement of the drive to the generous fairways remains the cornerstone of any good round. The flat landing area of each fairway can be challenging to find, but a rewarding adventure. With 14 lakes and 81 bunkers, The Montgomerie Dubai, the first and only example of the association between golfing great Colin Montgomerie and Desmond Muirhead, adds a distinctive variety to the golfing landscape of the region.

One of the signature holes is the par 5 fourth, dubbed the Snake hole for its saddleback fairway which doglegs towards the green, with 2 bunkers behind forming the eyes of the snake. Further on, the par 5 ninth, with water down the left, is a tough finish to the opening half. The par 3 thirteenth, a hole designed in the shape of the UAE, boasts a 360 degree teeing area around an island fairway and green, allowing for a completely different golf hole to be played every time. However, it is the par 5 eighteenth that offers a more classic test. At 656 yards it is a monster and, with water protecting the front of the green, it defies even the best player to hit the green in two.

Website: www.themontgomerie.com
Phone: +971 4 390 5600

Location	8 km
Holes	18
Length/Par	7396 Yards, Par 72, sss 75

Facilities

Driving range
Teaching academy
9 hole par 3 Academy course
5 star hotel accommodation
3 restaurants
Cigar lounge
Angsana Spa,
Fitness centre
Outdoor swimming pool
Extensive function areas.

Spa

Name of Spa	Talise Spa
Opening Times	09:00 to 22:00

Facilities

Massages:
Holistic, Energiser, Swedish, Sports, Thai, Thai herbal, Balinese, Taksu, Tui Na, Pregnancy Consultation and Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Shiatsu, Foot reflexology, hot stone therapy & Indian head massage.

Alternative Energy Treatments:
Watsu, Reiki, Ear Candling, Crystal Therapy, Bach flower therapy, Colour Therapy, Colour Therapy inc meditation, Star light essences

Sodashi Facial Treatments:
Sensitive, Purity facial, Radiance facial, marine mineral facial, Aromatic hydration, thermal indulgence, Man Maintenance

Sodashi Body Treatments:
Jojoba body polish, Salt therapy, Marine Enzyme exfoliation, Refining body toner, Purifying Body boast, Detoxifying body wrap, Contouring body wrap.

Shiffa Signature Facial Treatments:
Signature facial, Mini facial, Planet earth gem facial

Shiffa Body Treatments:
Velvet nights (and with hair and body mask), Hamman ancienne (and with facial hammam and body mask). Rose heaven, Rose heaven steam and bath, Rose heaven Bliss balm massage, Andalusian bath, Planet Earth Core treatment, Sweetness body polish, Divine Bridal Package, Planet earth bath, Planet earth body and facial massage, Crystal body and face massage, Massage, Basil and mint salt scrub, Body mask, Hair oils, Bath.

Aromatherapy Treatments:
Lavender cooler, Real Aromatherapy Experience Layers of luxury Rose Body Indulgence, Sensuality Bath, Renew Rose anti age facial, Renew Rose total indulgence facial

Body Work:
Yoga Zone, Meditation, Weight Loss management package, Personal Training (Aqua work-out, Pre and Post Natal Exercise, Personal Assessment), Spa Physio Therapy, Remedial Therapy, Niramaya Classical Slimming Stretch, Angatha Yoga, Elementary Canal Cleansing, Jala Neti (Nasal Cleansing), Kunkal (Stomach Cleansing), Yoga and Meditation, Yoga / Group Classes

Beauty Treatments:
Spa Manicure, Spa Pedicure, Deluxe Spa Hand and foot treatment, Radiance Hand, Treatment, Sodashi Refreshing Mint foot treatment

Cranley Comment

The Talise Spa is built on landscaped islands with quiet courtyards and is surrounded by water, offering complete privacy and seclusion. Twenty six treatment rooms are available with balconies (of which ten are ladies-only) are arranged in island clusters with some accommodating double occupancy to allow guests to share the experience with friends or partners. Outdoor treatment tents offer a taste of Arabia whilst experiencing a range of internationally acclaimed treatments.

Special Needs

Communal Areas

Each summer house has its own dedicated reception area where guests check in and are generally wheelchair friendly.

Rooms & Bathrooms

There are no designated special needs rooms

Restaurants & Catering

Adequate wheelchair access to all restaurants is available.

Recreation Facilities

A lot of movement around the hotel is by the water Abras. There are also flat path alternatives and the hotel runs numerous buggies to ferry guests around.

Cranley Comment

Dar Al Masyaf summer houses have no rooms designated for special needs and are built on two floors without a lift alternative. Guests can move around the resort in one of a number of buggies.

Environment

Cranley Comment

No environmental policies in place

Dar Al Masyaf, Dubai, Report Details

23 January 2006

Home I Back | Cranley reference: 100198 | Quick link: http://www.cranley.com/?100198