Honest first-hand reviews of the best luxury hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi: beach resorts and city icons.

One&Only Royal Mirage feels unlike the rest of Dubai. No skyscrapers here, just Arabian courts, a private beach, and everything slowing right down.

Rixos Club Privé on Saadiyat Island is all-inclusive done at the top end: private villas, an Abu Dhabi beach, and room for the whole family.

I took my mum to Rixos Premium Dubai for her birthday. Right on the JBR beachfront, all-inclusive, and made for a proper celebration.

Caesars Palace brings Roman grandeur to Bluewaters Island in Dubai: two beaches, big-name dining, and a pool scene that runs all day.

Rixos Premium Dubai sits right on The Walk at JBR, steps from the beach and Dubai Marina. All-inclusive, lively, and central to everything.

Rixos Saadiyat Island was the first all-inclusive of its kind in Abu Dhabi: a long private beach, endless dining, and family-friendly throughout.

Four Seasons Dubai DIFC is the address in Dubai's financial district: a rooftop pool, standout restaurants, and resort polish in the middle of the city.