Taj Palace Hotel, Dubai - Cranley Report

The Cranley Report

Taj Palace Hotel

Taj Palace Hotel, Dubai

Hotel Address

Al Rigga Road and Al Maktoum Street
(P.O. Box 42211)
Dubai
United Arab Emirates

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Cranley Rating

Taj Palace Hotel

Photo 1 of 31. Click to enlarge

Hotel Summary

Category	Hotel and Apartments
Awards Won	2007 Time Out Restaurant Awards - Handi; Highly Commended 2006 Winner of the World Hotel Award 2006 - Business Hotel Time Out Restaurant Awards - Handi; Best Indian Restaurant

Hotel Opened	2001
Refurbishment	2007 Mezzanine Business Centre Diyfa Meeting Room

Cranley Summary

Taj Palace Hotel is a landmark in Dubai city centre and benefits from a fusion of modern business facilities, a range of spacious balconied guest bedrooms and suites, many benefiting from Taj Club lounge facilities which include Dubai International Airport transfers. Additionally, the hotel has a selection of one, two and three bedroomed serviced apartments for guests who prefer self catering. The overall ambience throughout the hotel is an even balance of unpretentious, uncluttered calm with both modern facilities combined with traditional values. The hotel has an eclectic range of restaurants specialising in Indian, Turkish, Japanese and Italian cuisine. There is also an International breakfast restaurant, a lobby lounge with cascading water features serving a range of cakes with coffee and teas and a rooftop pool. The hotel further benefits from having two gyms, a spa, conferencing facilities and a shopping arcade with a small range of outlets. Guests should note that the hotel has a no alcohol policy and serves a range of refreshing non alcoholic beverages.

Hotel Location & Layout

Location Description

The Taj Palace Hotel is located in the heart of Deira city centre and the business district, between Al Maktoum Street and Al Rigga Road close to the 'Clock Tower'. It is ideally situated close to Dubai Creek with its busy working waterway which also offers tourist Creek Dinner Cruises and Abras (water taxis) across to Bur Dubai. Being the original centre of the city many of the original colourful souks and markets are close by. Behind the hotel are a couple of well stocked grocery stores and the hotel runs a five times daily shuttle service to the Deira City Centre mall which has a selection of 370 chain stores and restaurants. The World Trade Centre, Sheik Zayed Road and Dubai International Airport are a short drive away in normal traffic.

Airports
Distance	7 km
Airport Transfers	Approximately 15 minutes in light traffic. Complimentary transfers for guests staying in Taj Club guest rooms and above.

Cities and Sights
Distance	2 km
City/Sight Transfers	Approximately 3 minutes in light traffic.

Layout Description

This large rectangular shaped hotel has a covered driveway at the entrance, with water features, and access to the underground parking levels. The large double height lobby has a lounge to the left with full height windows and serves pastries and light snacks, to the right there is a reception desk and two guest relations desks. The mezzanine floor which overlooks the lobby is reached by stairs or lifts, and both the Business Centre and Le Rendezvous are situated here. There are three separate lift banks, which ascend to the guest floors, located in the lobby and along the long wide restaurant and shopping arcade on the ground floor, which is also where a number of the business and meeting rooms are positioned. The hotel guest rooms are to one end of the hotel, while the apartments are at the furthest end of the hotel, the Taj Club Lounge is situated on the 2nd floor. There is a Health Club and rooftop pool and Spa on the central 12th floor, this is accessed by guest lift to the 11th floor and then by a separate lift or stairs to the 12th floor.

Lobby & Guest Relations

Open Hours	24 hours
Languages Spoken	English, Arabic, Afrikaans, Chinese, Filipino, French, German, Hindi, Japanese, Russian, Spanish, Swahili, Tagalog, and several other languages spoken.
Payment Methods	All major credit cards and cash are accepted.
Foreign Exchange	24 hours All major currencies are exchanged. Exchange rates are commissionable.
Taxis Arranged	Hotel limousines can be arranged on request (chargeable). Street taxis can be arranged on request. There can sometimes be a short wait.
Tours Arranged	A full range of tours and tailor made packages can be organised through the Concierge to include: Abu Dhabi City Tours Al Ain City Tours Camel Riding Desert Safaris Dhow Tours Dinner Cruises Dubai City Tours Fishing Trips Liwa Full Day Safaris Night At The Races Oman Dhow Tour Sand Skiing Sharjah and Ajman City Tours Snorkelling or Scuba Diving Wadi Hatta or Hajar Mountains

Guest Relations	Standard service. Taj Club Floor Reception and check-in and out facility. Car Hire Desk.
Concierge Services	The Concierge is on hand 24 hours a day and will assist guests with any arrangements including restaurant reservations, limousines, car rental, airport transfers.
Medical Facilities	Staff are trained to administer first aid for minor incidents. A doctor is available 24 hours a day with a typical response time of within 10 minutes, according to the hotel. A pharmacy is available within the hotels shopping arcade.
Parking	Complimentary valet underground parking for 211 cars

Cranley Comment

Guests are greeted on arrival at the hotels covered drive-through entrance porch by well groomed staff and welcomed with a glass of sparkling date juice. The light double storey open plan entrance lobby has two guest relations desks and a check-in area, as well as a Lobby Lounge seating area with comfortable sofas and chairs, a pastry counter and central baby grand piano which is played in the evenings between 18:00 to 23:00. The lounge which is overlooked by the mezzanine level, has tall tropical plants, expansive windows along one side and a central cone shaped glassed atrium styled window which runs the full height of the hotel and houses the panoramic lifts. The majority of the hotel's restaurants and meeting rooms are at the rear of the marbled lobby within the shopping arcade.

Shops & Amenities

Description

Prima Gold – Jewellers
10:00 to 13:00, and 19:30 to 23:00 – Saturday to Thursday
19:30 to 23:00 – on Fridays.

Pharmacy
09:00 to 12:00, 14:00 to 24:00 – Saturday to Thursday
14:00 to 24:00 – on Fridays.

Qum Persian Carpets - Carpets
09:00 to 13:00, 16:00 to 22:00 – Saturday to Thursday
16:00 to 22:00 – on Fridays.

Gecce – Arabic souvenirs
10:00 to 22:00, 7 days a week

Malek Nicholas Salon – ladies' and gents' salon
10:00 to 22:00, 7 days a week

ATM Machine

Cranley Comment

The Lobby Lounge leads onto the Taj Palace Hotel’s own restaurant and shopping arcade. The arcade has a small selection of shops including a pharmacy and ladies' and gents' hair salon, ATM machine, an Arabic souvenir shop and an Oriental carpet shop with a worldwide export licence. Additionally there is a fine jewellers situated in the Lobby Lounge. Behind the hotel is a convenient well stocked grocery store and a selection of boutiques on the surrounding main roads. There are 5 shopping malls in Deira, a five times daily complimentary shuttle service is run between the hotel and Deira City Centre Mall which has over 370 stores.

Rooms, Suites & Villas

Number of Floors	11 guest floors with a central 12th floor rooftop pool
Total Rooms	249
Elevators	8 to the guest floors and 1 to the Health Club
Rooms per Elevator	31
Total Staff	300
Staff per Room	1.2

Check-in Time	14:00
Check-out Time	12:00
Late Checkout	Subject to availability to 18:00
Smoking Rooms	51 smoking rooms available; Executive – 34 Taj Club – 17 One Bedroom Apartment – 3rd, 4th and 5th floor Two Bedroom Apartment – 3rd, 4th and 5th floor Three Bedroom Apartment - 3rd, 4th and 5th floor
Room Service	Full menu served 24 hours.
Laundry Service	A next day, same day and express dry cleaning and laundry service is available. Laundry; handed in before 10:00 will be returned the same day. Dry Cleaning; handed in before 10:00 will be returned the same day. Pressing; is available between 07:00 to 20:00, seven days a week. Express Service, 1 hour from 08:00 to 18:00; incurs an extra charge. Express Service, 4 hour available 24 hours; incurs an extra charge. Express Pressing, 1 hour; incurs an extra charge. Children’s clothes up to the age of 3 are complimentary. Alterations (minor) can be carried out between 08:00 and 18:00. Shoe-shine service is available 24 hours (complimentary).

Club or Executive Facilities

The Taj Club is located on the 2nd floor. It is an open plan area with internet terminal and ample seating under a pinnacle glass atrium. There is a central fountain surrounded by tropical plants. Taj Club facilities include:

Pressing of one suit, dress or dishdash during the stay
Complimentary breakfast at the Taj Club Lounge 06:30 to 10:30
Complimentary tea coffee and afternoon snacks at the Taj Club Lounge 15:00 to 19:00
Complimentary high speed internet access in the Taj Club Rooms and above
Butler service
Limousine service pick-up and drop from Dubai International Airport
Express check-in and check-out
Secretarial assistance at the Taj Club Lounge

Cranley Comment

Guest rooms in the Taj Palace Hotel start at 61 square meters. They are furnished with solid grained wood, in a slightly classical Italian style with discreet inlaid black features. The matching furniture is complemented by gold framed mirrors and pictures, occasional lamps and a seating area featuring gold and reds which match the deep pile rugs upon the wooden floors. The spacious rooms all have a lounge area with desk and generous sized marble bathrooms with a bathtub, large walk-in shower and separate toilet closet. The suites have a separate lounge and master en-suite bathroom with a Jacuzzi and sauna. Guests staying in Taj Club Rooms and above, have use of the facilities and services in the club lounge on the 2nd floor. Each of the one, two and three bedroom apartments feature a separate open plan living / dining area and fully fitted kitchen and en-suite bathrooms which are fully serviced twice a week.

Type of Room, Views & Facilities

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Executive Room	113	City	Electronic locking system Viewfinder spy hole Security lock Individually controlled air-conditioning Dedicated work space/desk DDI line Voice mail High speed internet access (chargeable) 3 pin square British sockets 3 pin, 1 large and 2 small round sockets LCD television International Satellite TV Movie channels DVD (on request) Radio/alarm Floor to ceiling windows Energy saving key card light switches Energy saving light bulbs Dimmer switches All lights can be controlled from bed side Double closet Full length mirror Iron and ironing board (on request) Shoe shine service (complimentary) Large safe suitable for laptop Mini-bar Filter coffee and tea making facilities Complimentary (national) daily newspapers Balcony with table and 2 chairs Turndown service Duvet En-suite bathroom Single vanity basin unit Separate toilet closet Bidet Bath tub with hand held shower Separate jet shower Bathrobes Slippers Shaving/make up mirror Shaving point Retractable drying cord Hairdryer Bathroom scale Telephone in bathroom Television speakers in bathroom Luxury Gilchrist and Soames toiletries 28 Interconnecting Rooms	2 adults and 1 extra bed	61

Cranley Comment

The spacious Executive Rooms have either twin or queen size beds. They are well furnished with an array of imported Italian solid wood matching furniture which includes a large dedicated desk, television unit, low level coffee table and occasional tables. The richly furnished sitting area has a sofa and chairs, which match the gold framed prints and mirrors upon the walls and red and gold heavy curtains with deep pile rugs that cover the wooden floors. Each room has a private balcony furnished with a table and chairs. The sizeable en-suite bathroom is fully tiled and has a recessed basin unit with large gold framed mirrors upon two walls, a bath, separate toilet closet with bidet, separate walk-in shower room and luxury Gilchrist and Soames toiletries.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Taj Club Room	34	City	As for Executive Room with the added benefit of: Complimentary high speed internet access Fax Complimentary fruit basket Taj Club Lounge facilities 8 Interconnecting Rooms	2 adults and 1 extra bed	61

Cranley Comment

Taj Club Rooms have the additional benefits of the club lounge which is located on the 2nd floor of the hotel. The Taj Club Rooms are well furnished with an array of imported Italian solid wood matching furniture which includes; a large dedicated desk with fax, television unit, low level coffee table and occasional tables. The richly furnished sitting area has a sofa and chairs, which match the gold framed prints and mirrors upon the walls and red and gold heavy curtains with deep pile rugs that cover the wooden floors. Each room has a private balcony furnished with a table and chairs. The sizeable en-suite bathroom is fully tiled and has a recessed basin unit with large gold framed mirrors upon two walls, a bath, separate toilet closet with bidet, separate walk-in shower room and luxury Gilchrist and Soames toiletries.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Executive Suites	10	City	As for Taj Club Rooms with the added benefit of: Guest cloakroom Separate lounge area Dining table with 4 chairs Additional LCD television DVD/CD player Hi-fi speakers 2 balconies Dressing room Jacuzzi Sauna	2 adults and 1 extra bed	121

Cranley Comment

Executive Suites have the additional benefits of a separate open plan living / dining area which has a table for four people. The rooms are well furnished with an array of imported Italian matching wood furniture and modern sitting area which has a combination of cream and mauve chairs, a sofa, modern low level coffee table and ottomans. Each Executive Suite has two private balconies furnished with a table and chairs. The adjoining en-suite master bedroom has a dressing room and en-suite bathroom which is fully tiled and has a recessed basin unit with large gold framed mirrors upon two walls, a Jacuzzi bath, separate toilet closet with bidet, separate walk-in shower room and private sauna with luxury Gilchrist and Soames toiletries.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Royal Suite	2	City	As for Executive Suites with the added benefit of: Entrance hall 2 Plasma televisions Meeting room for 12 people Larger master bedroom with sitting area Separate rain shower Steam room Interconnecting Rooms	2 adults	225

Cranley Comment

Royal Suites are one bedroom suites which can connect to 2 further adjoining Executive Rooms to make them into three bedroom suites. The Royal Suites are located on the 9th and 10th floors and a private balcony runs the full length of the suite. Double doors lead to a large entrance hall with guest cloakroom and separate vanity area, a lounge, a separate meeting/dining room with kitchenette and an office furnished with a desk, fax machine and lounge area. They are traditionally furnished to a very high standard with luxurious furnishings, drapes and paintings. The bedroom has a king size bed, whilst the bathroom features a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and two separate vanity areas and luxury Gilchrist with Soames toiletries.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
One Bedroom Apartments	3	City	Entrance hall Guest cloakroom Electronic locking system Viewfinder spy hole Security lock Individually controlled air-conditioning DDI line Voice mail Wi-Fi (chargeable) High speed internet access (chargeable) 3 pin square British sockets 2 LCD television International Satellite TV Movie channels DVD (on request) Radio/alarm Floor to ceiling windows Energy saving key card light switches Energy saving light bulbs Double closet Full length mirror Shoe shine service (complimentary) Safe Tea and coffee making facilities Balcony with table and 2 chairs Cleaning service twice a week Duvet En-suite bathroom Single vanity basin unit Separate toilet closet Bidet Bath tub with hand held shower Bathrobes Slippers Shaving/make up mirror Shaving point Retractable drying cord Hairdryer Bathroom scale Luxury Elemis toiletries Separate lounge/dining room Dining table with 4 chairs Fully fitted and equipped kitchen with: Fridge/freezer Dish washer Microwave Cooker 4 ring gas burner Washing machine Iron and ironing board Maids en-suite shower room	2 adults and 1 extra bed	108

Cranley Comment

One Bedroom Apartments are fitted to a high standard and are traditionally furnished in keeping with the style of the hotel. The apartments have every facility required for guests wishing to have the convenience of self catering together with the benefits of a luxury hotel, including a lounge/dining room which is overlooked through a serving hatch from the fully fitted and equipped modern kitchen. The en-suite bedroom has a queen size bed, dressing table and additional television, whilst the bathrooms are fully tiled and have a single vanity unit, bath with shower over and luxury Elemis toiletries.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Two Bedroom Apartments	76	City	As for One Bedroom Apartments with the added benefit of: Additional twin en-suite guest bedroom Additional television	5 adults and 2 children	165

Cranley Comment

Two Bedroom Apartments are fitted to a high standard and are traditionally furnished in keeping with the style of the hotel. The apartments have every facility required for guests wishing to have the convenience of self catering together with the benefits of a luxury hotel, including a lounge/dining room which is overlooked through a serving hatch from the fully fitted and equipped modern kitchen. Each Two Bedroom Apartment has an en-suite guest bedroom and small maid's en-suite shower room. The master en-suite bedroom has a queen size bed, dressing table and additional television, the bathrooms are fully tiled and have a single vanity unit, bath with shower over and luxury Elemis toiletries.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Three Bedroom Apartments	10	City	As for Two Bedroom Apartments with the added benefit of: Larger master bedroom Sitting area Dressing area Larger bathroom Separate shower Additional twin en-suite guest bedroom Additional television	6 adults and 4 children	268

Cranley Comment

Three Bedroom Apartments have the additional benefit of two en-suite guest bedrooms and a larger maid's room and master bedroom. Each Three Bedroom Apartment is fitted to a high standard and is traditionally furnished in keeping with the style of the hotel. The apartments have every facility required for guests wishing to have the convenience of self catering together with the benefits of a luxury hotel, including a lounge/dining room which is overlooked through a serving hatch from the fully fitted and equipped modern kitchen. The larger master en-suite bedroom has a queen size bed, dressing table, dressing area and additional television, the bathrooms are fully tiled and have a single vanity unit, bath and separate shower with luxury Elemis toiletries.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Duplex Apartment	1	City	As for Three Bedroom Apartments with the added benefit of: Accommodation on 2 floors Larger kitchen Separate dining room Dining table with 6 chairs Study area	6 adults and 4 children	268

Cranley Comment

The three bedroom Duplex Apartment has the additional benefit of accommodation being spread over two floors with a larger kitchen, separate dining room and study area. The three bedroom Duplex Apartment is fitted to a high standard and is traditionally furnished in keeping with the style of the hotel. The apartment has every facility required for guests wishing to have the convenience of self catering together with the benefits of a luxury hotel. The three bedrooms are en-suite with the master en-suite bathroom also having a separate shower, vanity basin unit and luxury Elemis toiletries.

Restaurants & Cafés

Number of Restaurants

Restaurant Comments

The Taj Palace Hotel enjoys the benefit of a broad and varied selection of restaurants with cuisine styles from around the world. Guests can choose between the Japanese Sakura, the Italian Verdi and a Turkish restaurant, the Topkapi, not forgetting the Taj's award winning restaurant specialising in North Indian cuisine, the Handi. Le Rendezvous serves an International style buffet and A la carte breakfasts, whilst the 24 hour Lobby Lounge serves a variety of freshly baked cakes and pastries with a selection of teas and coffees. Guests should note that the Taj Palace Hotel does not serve pork and is an alcohol free hotel which serves a range of refreshing non alcoholic beverages.

Lobby Lounge

Restaurant Type	Coffee / Patisserie / Light Snacks
Restaurant Capacity	80
Opening Times	24 hours
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	No smoking allowed
Children’s Facilities	High chairs available
Breakfast Options	Continental 06:30 to 10:30

Cranley Comment

Situated to the left of the lobby and under a circular glass atrium, the Lobby Lounge is decorated with tropical plants, waterfalls and double height floor to ceiling windows. Seating is provided as a range of comfortable settees and arm chairs with a patisserie counter offering a range of fresh pastries, cakes and cookies. The 24 hour menu also offers a range of light meals, sandwiches and an exclusive range of teas, coffees, juices and cold drinks. Afternoon 'High Tea' is served with cakes and pastries and a live pianist entertains guests during the evenings from 18:00 to 22:00

Le Rendezvous

Restaurant Type	Coffee Shop / International Buffet at lunch times
Restaurant Capacity	95
Opening Times	06:30 to 15:00 Breakfast Buffet - 06:30 to 10:30 Breakfast A la carte - 06:30 to 12:00 Lunch 12:30 to 15:00 - Sundays to Thursday. Dinner - closed
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	No smoking allowed
Children’s Facilities	High chairs
Breakfast Options	Continental English Buffet A la carte

Cranley Comment

Le Rendezvous is situated on the mezzanine level. It is decorated in a contemporary style and has floor to ceiling windows, modern Indian style paintings and featured ceilings with subtle colour lighting, bold colours are used in the décor with pea green leather chairs, bright orange serviettes and unusual printed script table runners. The restaurant serves an International buffet and A la carte for breakfast and is also open for lunch from Sunday to Thursday. Teas and coffees are also served in this informal environment until 15:00 during the working week.

Handi

Restaurant Type	Indian
Restaurant Capacity	64
Opening Times	Lunch 12:00 to 15:30 Dinner 19:00 to 23:30
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	No smoking allowed
Children’s Facilities	High chairs available

Cranley Comment

Handi is the Taj Palace Hotel's award winning restaurant which is situated on the ground floor of the hotel. Chef Mohammed Hasib prepares culinary specialties from the northern regions of India, primarily from Luknow and Pradesh. Dishes include the award winning “best curry in Dubai”; Gosht Korma Awadhi, biryanis and dishes from the Tandoori ovens are served in an atmospheric setting with ornamental lighting and decoration. A selection of Handi set menus and specials are also available.

Sakura

Restaurant Type	Japanese / Pan-Asian
Restaurant Capacity	32
Opening Times	Dinner 19:00 to 23:30
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	No smoking allowed

Cranley Comment

Sakura, the Japanese restaurant, is decorated in an Oriental theme with pronounced furniture and teppanyaki tables. Guests are greeted in a traditional, friendly Oriental style with staff in ethnic dress. Artfully prepared sushi and sashimi is available, whilst chefs delight guests at the live cooking stations with true teppanyaki style showmanship. The extensive menu is prepared by Japanese chefs with fresh produce flown in daily direct from the Far East.

Verdi

Restaurant Type	Italian
Restaurant Capacity	28
Opening Times	Dinner 19:00 to 23:30
Dress Codes	Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	No smoking allowed
Children’s Facilities	High chairs available Children’s menu Smaller portions available

Cranley Comment

Verdi is a casual and friendly Italian restaurant opening onto the hotel’s shopping boulevard. It has a relaxed, casual atmosphere with its own pizza oven for an extensive range of pizzas with a selection of toppings. Other dishes include Milan style pasta, risotto, an anti-pasta buffet and Italian desserts. Verdi décor features polished wood, brick walls with arches and large Italian paintings set into the walls. There is an open fireplace decorated with Italian sausages and meats and a bar with high stools and colourful jars of pasta.

Topkapi

Restaurant Type	Turkish
Restaurant Capacity	75
Opening Times	Lunch 12:00 to 15:00 Dinner 19:00 to 23.30
Dress Codes	Smart Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	No smoking allowed
Children’s Facilities	High chairs available

Cranley Comment

Topkapi is a Turkish restaurant specialising in a range of Middle Eastern dishes. A Turkish fountain with running water is the centre piece of this restaurant, which has cobbled stone pillars and wooden floors, while framed ancient jewellery decorate the walls. Chefs prepare specialities from the open charcoal grill and bread oven which include Grilled Quails, Kebabs and Lobster. Turkish and Arabic mezzeh are the house specialities and hot and cold appetizers comprise of Chicken Tajine, Kibbeh, Haloumi cheese and Lebanese sausages amongst others.

Pool Café

Restaurant Type	Pool Café
Restaurant Capacity	40
Opening Times	10:00 to 19:00
Dress Codes	Casual

Smoking Policy

Designated smoking areas

Cranley Comment

The open air Pool Café is situated on the roof terrace by the swimming pool and has some views of the Creek and the city skyline, it is open between 10:00 to 19:00 each day. The café serves a typical range of pool side food, salads, sandwiches, light snacks, desserts, hot and cold beverages and refreshing non alcoholic drinks and cocktails.

Bars

Bar Comments

The Taj Palace Hotel does not have any bars or serve alcohol within the hotel, guest rooms or apartments.

Business & Event Facilities

Wireless Internet

Wireless Internet is available in the;
Lobby area
Meeting rooms
Business Centre
Chargeable, access cards are obtainable from Reception or the Business Centre

In-Room Services

Guest rooms;
Dedicated desk
High speed internet connection (complimentary in Taj Club Rooms and above)
Fax (Taj Club Rooms and above)

Apartments;
WiFi connectivity (chargeable)
High speed internet connection (chargeable)
Chargeable, access cards and codes are obtainable from Reception or via the internet

Business Centre

The 24 hour Business Centre is located on the Mezzanine Level of the hotel and has the following facilities;

2 Desks with workstations with internet connections
Meeting Rooms
Conference Rooms
Audio facilities
Colour copier
Courier Service
Fax hire & faxing service
Laptop hire
Mobile phone hire
Translation /interpretation
Typing
Computer printing
Scanning
Stationery supplies
Binding service
Mobile phone charging
Technical Concierge

Meetings & Events

Venue	Size (m²)	Dimensions L x W x H (metres)
Al Khaimah	472	34.0 x 14.0 x 8.8	500	350	550	300	-	100	-
Al Khaimah Foyer	31	51.0 x 6.5 x 5.6	30	-	-	-	-	-	-
Taj Platinum	88	8.8 x 6.8 x 2.2	-	-	-	-	18	-	-
Taj Crystal	87	12.2 x 7.2 x 3.9	-	40	50	30	30	-	-
Taj Gold	57	9.2 x 7.4 x 2.5	-	-	-	-	18	-	-
Diyafa	54	8.7 x 7.1 x 3.9	-	25	30	30	25	-	-
Taj Silver	27	4.7 x 7.4 x 2.5	-	-	-	-	10	-	-

The Taj Palace Hotel has seven versatile event spaces which are suitable for banquets, conferences, lectures, business meetings, exhibitions and weddings.

Al Khaimah and Foyer:
Al Khaimah and foyer are located on the 6th floor of the hotel and are easily accessible by lift, natural light is available in the pre-function foyer area. Al Khaimah is decorated in a classical style and has an arched ceiling with permanent light and sound equipment which are controlled from a dedicated projection suite. The foyer area has a more contemporary modern style, with marble floors and semi permanent seating arrangements along one side of this semi-circular space. There is one small meeting room also on this level and ladies’ gents’ and disabled facilities on the 6th floor level.

GROUND FLOOR

Meeting Rooms:
The Meeting Rooms are located on the ground floor level and are easily accessible, natural light is available in some of the rooms. The meeting rooms are decorated in a simplistic style which can be furnished and adapted depending on their use. There are ladies’ and gents’ facilities on the ground floor and disabled facilities on the 6th floor level of the hotel.

Facilities and equipment for the Taj Palace Hotels business and conference rooms include:

High speed internet connection, modem lines, Wi-Fi, air conditioning controls in room, telephone points, fully integrated state of the art audio visual equipment in the Al Khaimah Ballroom controlled from a sound projection suite, include video conferencing, simultaneous translation service and integrated video recording, LCD projectors, television monitors, DVD player, VCR, flip chart and markers, whiteboard, lectern, wireless microphone, stage/podium, dance floor, stage lights, power sockets, tungsten/fluorescent/halogen lighting, controls in room, dimmers, black out windows.

Cranley Comment

The Taj Palace Hotel has seven event spaces which are suitable for theatre presentations, banquets, conferences, lectures, business meetings, and weddings. Al Khaimah and foyer are situated on the 6th floor of the hotel, the double height semi-circular foyer has an abundance of natural day light from the large windows and light grey marble floors. Al Khaimah has a curved ceiling, with permanent light and sound equipment in place which is controlled from a projection suite. It is ideally suited for theatre presentations and banquets (no alcohol is served). The additional meeting and conference rooms are either situated on this level or on the ground floor level of the hotel. When set up for meetings each room features high back brown leather chairs, LCD screens flip chart and markers. A selection of delegate packages are available.

Children’s Facilities & Clubs

Restaurant Facilities

See Restaurants

Children's Pool

See Pools

Babysitting service

Hotel staff provide a chargeable babysitting service on request, 8 hours notice should be given to Reception

Cranley Comment

While children are welcome at the Taj Palace Hotel there are limited facilities for them. A baby sitting service is available and is provided by hotel staff, cots and rollout beds are also available. The rooftop pool within the Health Club on the 12th floor has a small circular children’s pool which offers no shade. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult and are not permitted to use the Jacuzzi if they are under 18.

Beaches

Jumeirah Beach Park

Location	16 km
Description	Jumeirah Beach Park is a public beach open from 8:00 to 23:00. Visitors must pay a small charge to enter the beach area and sun loungers and parasols are available for hire. Visitors to the Jumeirah Beach Park should note that one day per week is designated as 'Ladies Only' day and they should check before visiting which day it is.
Private/Public	Public
Size/Frontage	The beach has a water frontage of about four hundred metres and is approximately twenty metres wide.

Facilities	Facilities include showers, toilets, snack bar, sun loungers and parasols for hire, a children’s adventure playground and a grass area with barbeques and straw parasols.
Safety	Lifeguards on duty.
Parking	There is a small charge to bring your car into the park or there is complimentary car parking available nearby.

Cranley Comment

The Jumeirah Beach Park is a public beach with a small charge for entry. The beach park has a large beach with lifeguards, sun lounger and parasol hire, toilet facilities and a snack bar for cold drinks and fast food refreshments. There is a grassed area and an area planted with trees, where barbeques are available for public use. There are football goals and beach volleyball facilities on the beach in addition to an adventure type playground to keep younger children entertained.

Pools

Oval Pool

Opening Times	Pool 07:00 to 22:00 Pool café 10:00 to 19:00
Temperature	Temperature is controlled at 30 degrees celsius
Depths	Max:1.50 metres Min: 0.90 metres
Size	21 metres long by 8.5 metres wide

Facilities	Heavy wood sun beds with cream covers Matching cream umbrellas Wood tables and chairs Jacuzzi Pool showers Pool café Ladies' and men's changing rooms with sauna and steam room.
Safety	Lifeguards on duty during opening hours

Cranley Comment

The oval shaped rooftop swimming pool is situated on the 12th floor of the hotel within the Health Club complex and reached by separate lift and stairs from the 11th floor. The pool is open between 07:00 to 22:00 and is surrounded by rock features and tropical plants, a large terrace with sun beds and views over the city. The pool area has a Jacuzzi and a pool café which is open between 10:00 to 19:00 and serves a range of salads, sandwiches, light snacks, desserts and hot and cold beverages. There are separate ladies' and gents' changing facilities within the Health Club which have lockers, a shower, sauna, and steam room. Towels are available at the Health Club Reception.

Children's Pool

Opening Times	07:00 to 22:00
Temperature	Temperature is controlled at 30 degrees celsius
Depths	39 centimetres
Size	Approx 3.0 metres diameter

Safety

Lifeguards on duty during opening hours

Cranley Comment

The children’s circular pool is situated on a slightly lower terraced level than the main Oval Pool and is next to the pool showers. No shade is provided. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult and children under the age of 18 are not permitted to use the Jacuzzi. Towels are available from the Health Club Reception.

Sports & Gym

Gym & Health Club

Opening Times	7:00 to 22:00
Description	Taj Palace Health Club facilities include: 4 Treadmills 1 Up Ride Bicycle 2 Incline Bicycles 1 Cross Trainers 1 Rowing Machine 1 Stepper 1 Cross Trainer 1 Chain (multi) Machine 1 Leg Extension 1 Leg Curl 1 Leg Press 1 Lat Pull Down 1 Abdominal Crunch 1 Bench Press 1 Incline Bench Press 1 Pector Range of free weights and dumb bells Changing rooms with sauna, steam room, showers and lockers Children under the age of 17 are not permitted to use the gym equipment.
Size	Two gyms, overall size 310² metres

Cranley Comment

The Taj Palace Health Club Gym is situated on the central 12th floor of the hotel which is reached by a separate lift or stairs from the 11th floor of the hotel. The Health Club provides towels and water and there is a small relaxation area. There are two separate gyms, one features cardio vascular machines and has full height windows offering plenty of natural day light. A full range of weight training equipment is found in the other. The separate ladies' and gents' changing rooms each have a shower, lockers, steam room and sauna. A personal trainer is on hand for fitness assessment and gym orientation programmes. The hotel's rooftop pool is situated within the same complex.

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	6 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	35 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.

Four Seasons Golf Club Dubai

Description

Opened in February 2005 the Four Seasons Golf Club Dubai continues to receive rave reviews about its design, condition and playability. This is a Robert Trent Jones II designed course, neighbouring the banks of the Dubai Creek and is only 2 minutes from Dubai Airport. The Four Seasons Golf Club provides a challenging round for seasoned golfers and assures recreational players a memorable experience. It features extensive use of water with 11 lakes and several smaller ponds with stunning views across the impressive Dubai Skyline.

Location	7 km
Holes	18
Length/Par	7,250 Yards Par 72 sss 74

Facilities

Driving range
Practice areas

Spa

Name of Spa	Taj Spa
Opening Times	07:00 to 22:00

Facilities

Ayurvedic Signatures:
These holistic, Ayurvedic treatments use the inherent principles of nature to bring mind, body and soul into a state of relaxation or rejuvenation.
Abhyanga - 75 minutes
Shiro Dhara - 90 minutes
Udvartana - 90 minutes
Four-handed Abyanga - 60 minutes
Nasyam - 30 minutes
Sharir Lepa - 90 minutes
Taila Seka - 90 minutes

Spa Rituals:
Chocolate Addiction - 90 minutes
Grape Wine - 90 minutes
Spa Moroccan Anti Aging - 45 minutes
Energising Seaweed Hammam - 30 minutes
Milk and Honey - 30 minutes
Aromatherapy - 30 minutes

European Spa:
European Seaweed Body Treatment - 90 minutes
Peppermint Sea Twist - 90 minutes
Sea Spa Glow - 90 minutes
Honey Body Polish - 60 minutes

Facials:
Majestic Glow Facial - 120 minutes
Aromatherapy Purifying Facial - 90 minutes
European Seaweed Facial - 90 minutes
Mukhalepam - 60 minutes
Men’s Facial - 60 minutes

Massage Therapies:
Swedish Massage - 75 minutes
Swedish back massage - 45 minutes
Sports and Fitness Massage - 90 minutes
Sports and Fitness Back Massage - 45 minutes
Aromatherapy Massage - 75 minutes
Balinese Massage - 75 minutes
Thai Massage - 90 minutes
Hot Stone Massage - 120 minutes
Royal Back Treatment - 45 minutes

Scalp, Hand and Foot:
Spa Manicure - 60 minutes
Spa Pedicure - 60 minutes
Reflexology - 75 minutes
Oriental Foot Massage - 60 minutes
Herbal Foot Soak - 60 minutes
Aromatherapy Scalp Treatment - 45 minutes
Indian Head Massage - 45 minutes
Ear Candling - 30 minutes

Spa Extras:
Half-leg Wax - 30 minutes
Full-leg Wax - 60 minutes
Underarm Wax - 15 minutes
Half-arm Wax - 15 minutes
Full-arm Wax - 30 minutes
Bikini Line Wax - 15 minutes
Full Body Wax - 120 minutes
Eye Brow Wax - 15 minutes
Upper Lip Wax - 10 minutes

Separate changing, relaxation and treatment rooms;

2 ladies' single spa treatment rooms with Jacuzzi and body steam shower
1 ladies' double spa treatment rooms with Jacuzzi and body steam shower
3 ladies' single spa treatment rooms with Jacuzzi and body steam shower

Cranley Comment

The Taj Spa is situated on the 12th floor of the hotel and can be reached by separate stairs or a lift from the 11th floor or Health Club. It offers a range of Ayurvedic and European treatments in an Oriental Indian style environment with floating candles, Oriental flowers, low lighting and with relaxing Indian music. The spa has an overall size of 375² metres with each treatment room having a Jacuzzi bath and body steam shower. Guests have the luxury of a foot massage on arrival before their treatment and a shoulder massage after their treatment. Guests are encouraged to relax after their treatment and are offered a detoxifying drink of Amla juice from the Indian Himalayas. Special daily packages are also available. .

Special Needs

Communal Areas

With the exception of the rooftop pool all areas within the hotel are accessible to guests who may be physically challenged. There is one specially adapted cloakroom on the 6th floor of the hotel, close to the Al Khaimah Ballroom.

Rooms & Bathrooms

There is one specially adapted Taj Executive double guest bedroom at the hotel, the substantial bedroom and bathroom has been modified to include a lowered energy key card switch, and lowered hanging rail within the closet. The bathroom has a wheel in shower with adjustable bench shower seat, there are solid grab rails around the shower and the lavatory area. The bath is recessed in granite with an approximately 6cm surround, it has a fixed grab rail on the wall. The single vanity basin unit is also recessed with some free space below. There is a telephone within the bathroom which connects to the Reception.

Restaurants & Catering

With the exception of the Pool Café all food and beverage outlets within the hotel are on the ground floor, with Le Rendezvous being on the mezzanine floor, each have level entrances and interiors. The restaurants have free standing furniture with both Handi and Topkapi having additional bench seating. Neither pork nor alcohol is used or served within the hotel, should guests have any special dietary requirements special arrangements will be made to accommodate them.

Recreation Facilities

The Health Club and spa are on the 12th floor of the hotel, both the gym facilities and spa are approachable by lifts and ramps although not connectable. The rooftop pool is central to both these facilities and is reached by a series of stairs from either end. With access from the spa being slightly less challenging with only 6 steps.

Staff Assistance

Guests staying at the Taj Palace Hotel who have special needs or are physically challenged are assigned a personal Guest Relations Officer. Members of the hotel staff are trained in first aid and are able to give assistance if required however some aspects of special care may not be available. The hotel has its own wheelchair for use if required and also a Defribulator.

Cranley Comment

The Taj Palace Hotel has one Taj Executive Double guest bedroom with large bathroom which has been specially adapted with the physically challenged traveller in mind. Notably all areas of the hotel are accessible by either lift or ramps with the exception of the rooftop swimming pool. While staying at the hotel, guests with special needs are allocated a personal Guest Relations Officer during their stay. A pharmacy is available within the hotel's shopping arcade. No special facilities are available for the partially sighted or the hard of hearing.

Environment

Measures

Recycling
Energy Saving

Cranley Comment

The Taj Palace is conscious of environmental practices and has energy saving light bulbs in all rooms and along the guest floor corridors, each guest room also has energy saving key card switches. Air conditioning is switched off in meeting rooms and guest rooms when they are not in use. Plastic guest laundry bags have been replaced by linen ones and guests are provided with hotel branded hessian shopping bags. Paper is recycled as well as glass and bottles.

Taj Palace Hotel, Dubai, Report Details

Second Review - 26th September 2008

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