Exploring The New Stylish ME Dubai

The 5-star property is the only hotel in the Middle East to be fully designed both inside and out by the late Dame Zaha Hadid. It is located in her mesmerizing The Opus development by Omniyat, in the heart of Dubai’s Business Bay district. ME Dubai is also the first ME by Meliá Hotel in the Middle East, and in keeping with the personality-led ethos of the brand it plans to become the social hub of Dubai’s dynamic cultural scene. A focus of the hotel will be on its world-class F&B mix with Executive Chef, James Knight-Pacheco at the helm, showcasing an array of sophisticated dining venues; Deseo, Botanica and The Atrium by Zaha Hadid, followed by the largest nightclub space in Dubai.

After a swift check-in we are shown to our room. The room offers stylish interiors boasting clean lines and minimalist decor. The bedroom features one large double bed, a work desk, and a small seating area. The bathroom has a separate restroom, large bathtub, and opulent walk-in shower. Although minimalistic the room is very warm and welcoming with crisp whites and low lighting.

At the heart of The Opus by Omniyat, Zaha Hadid’s trademark designs flow boldly through the spectacular lobby area known as The Atrium by Zaha Hadid. A perfect place for impromptu meetings, lights snacks, morning pick-me-ups or Afternoon Tea. Here we enjoy a few petit four along with our coffee and admire the architecture.

The Atrium by Zaha Hadid is open throughout the day with an exciting program of performances from sunset. Guests can also enjoy the modern music flowing with a line-up of in-house entertainment featuring Resident DJ Shezad K, live music by SaxoKid and a performance by Ramon Kailani, paying homage to the brand’s Spanish roots.

Before making our way to Deseo we decide to stop by Botanica for a pre-dinner beverage. Enclosed off from the lobby area, Botanica offers a hidden bar serving a selection of stylish beverages dedicated to hand-crafted and specialty mixers that are elevated with an array of freshly cut herbs and botanicals, adding a touch of sensory showmanship. An edited menu of light bites sits perfectly alongside the innovative selection of infused beverages. Offering a sophisticated yet whimsical experience, Botanica is the ideal place for evening catch ups with friends and colleagues.

After a relaxing start to the evening, we make our way to Deseo. Currently the place to see and be seen, Deseo is a South American inspired contemporary urban terrace, restaurant, and lounge. Situated beside the modern rooftop pool overlooking the glittering Dubai skyline, the venue brings a little slice of Latin American charm, sophistication and fun where guests can encapsulate themselves in the stylish surroundings and indulge in the Latin inspired exotic cuisine.

Providing an ultimate pool escape for the sun seekers during the day, guests can lounge by the glistening pool and enjoy an authentic mix of bespoke beverages paired with eclectic bites.

In the evening, as the sun cascades throughout the terrace, the soulful experience is heightened. Guests can kick-off their evening with a delectable ‘bebida’ as the lights dim, the ambience transforms, bringing live music by resident DJ Shehzad K for a sensational evening of lounging and playful fun.

With bursts of greenery and the mesmerizing Dubai skyline, Deseo offers the perfect opportunity to be in the social core of the city. We try a few nibbles from the menu, but we do look forward to returning and experiencing what Deseo fully has to offer.

Next morning, we are up bright and early for breakfast at Central. Exuding a cosmopolitan vibe with a Mediterranean flair, Central is the hotel’s signature restaurant offering a curious palate of Spanish flavours served with a modern twist creating a truly distinctive dining experience. But for today it is our breakfast location serving a range of tempting ways to start the day, our advice is opt for the Pancakes.

From contemporary South American inspired cuisine at the poolside-chic Deseo, to iconic Afternoon Teas at The Atrium by Zaha Hadid, guests at ME Dubai will have exclusive 24-hour access to world-class cuisine.

Overall ME Dubai is a welcome addition to Dubai’s hospitality scene. With The Maine Oyster Bar and Grill and Roka by Zuma already at the hotel we are excited to see what other F&B’s ME Dubai has planned for the future.

ME Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai, +971 4 525 2500