Puttin' on the Ritz: Dubai International Financial Centre Reopens

We're thrilled to hear that Ritz-Carlton has reopened Dubai International Financial Centre in the bustling heart of the United Arab Emirates.

With interior design by HBA/Hirsch Bedner Associates and Gensler as the architect, the luxury hotel rises 14 stories high and features 341 guest rooms and suites and 124 serviced apartments.

Built in traditional limestone, the Ritz-Carlton is surrounded by landscaped gardens, including a sunken courtyard garden. Featuring water features, shaded terraces and a 10-story water wall to minimize the impact of noise from the street, the garden also serves to lessen the impact of the summer heat.

Be sure to take a waltz in the 1,400-square-meter ballroom (complete with rooftop terrace access) as well as the health club, spa and indoor swimming pool.

Nice Touch: A whimsical aviary-inspired chandelier dangles in the colonnade, flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows.

For privacy and security, the main entrance of the hotel is set back from the street for controlled acccess. Guests of serviced apartments also have a separate entrance, linked to the main building through a full-height atrium.