The Waldorf Astoria DIFC is located in one of the most exclusive and sophisticated areas of the city, the International Financial Center, home to some of the world’s most famous companies and brands. Everything about this hotel is sophisticated, a must-have authenticity for design lovers, a fashion that extends to all areas of the hotel – lobby, suites, spa or restaurant. Unique and majestic, and with impeccable service where every detail makes us feel special.
When we arrived at the imposing Burj Daman building, and crossed the marble Boulevard entrance, we immediately felt that this was a world-class hotel, and we went up to the 18th floor, where the lobby is located. In total, there are 55 floors of pure inspiration, dominated by pieces of art, sculptures, bronze details, leather furniture and a team that runs the hotel with absolute efficiency and friendliness that makes us feel at home. We can forget the typical corporate environment to give way to something more relaxed and welcoming, where the financial elite take the opportunity to rest and socialize.
When we arrived at our suite, located on the 42nd floor, we entered a universe of sophistication, with large glass windows that allow an infinite view of the city’s skyscrapers, which at night are lit up with thousands of lights, a spectacle worthy of a movie. Waiting for us we had several welcome amenities that surprised us with the attention and affection with which we were received. The areas are grand and the decor is superb, with soft tones and noble materials, a comfort that cannot be explained, it can only be felt – in the carpets, sheets, towels or robes, a touch of silk.
One of the gastronomic offerings is the Bull & Bear restaurant (inspired by the original Waldorf Astoria New York, a legacy dating back over 80 years). To the sound of jazz, in a sophisticated atmosphere and at a table with an exclusive view of the Burj Khalifa, we tasted some international dishes from Chef Luca Depaloe, where it is essential to try a good steak but also seafood and even innovative plant-based dishes, a good option for vegetarians. Highlights include the Shrimp Cocktail and Cured Salmon, served perfectly and accompanied by a careful selection of wines in a kitchen with passion and creativity. The executive lunch menu also has excellent options and fluid dishes for those who don’t have much time.
Late afternoons at St. Trop are a slice of the French Riviera. Music, cocktails and light dishes by the pool on the 18th floor, while we chatted and watched the sunset over the Dubai skyline, simply incredible! At Peacock Alley, enjoying Afternoon Tea is a moment of pure pleasure and a timeless tradition, reinvented with a touch of sophistication and a touch of indulgence, set to the sound of piano. Awaiting us is an exquisite selection of teas, classic and exotic, served with delicious mini-sandwiches, fresh scones and a variety of delicate sweets that illustrate the art of good service.
And to make our stay even better, there’s nothing like a visit to the Waldorf Astoria Spa, a hidden gem in the heart of the city. We can choose one of the four themed suites – Grooming, Floatation, Vichy or Couples – and enjoy several exclusive treatments. We performed a relaxing massage on a heated table that perfectly adapted to our body, an incredible experience from which we left completely refreshed and light.
The Waldorf Astoria DIFC is a surprising hotel, a luxury hotel with dynamics and a very distinct notion of hospitality achieved through a team that manages all the grandeur of this space with great professionalism. It was a memorable stay and I wanted to return multiple times, for leisure or business.
By Carla Branco