Jumeirah Al Qasr | Dubai

The crowning jewel of the Madinat Jumeirah complex on Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah Al Qasr ("The Palace" in Arabic) is a five-star hotel conceived to evoke a Sheikh's summer residence. Opened in 2004, the building is the architectural centrepiece of Madinat Jumeirah, a 40-hectare resort that recreates the atmosphere of an ancient Arabian citadel, connecting four luxury hotels (Al Qasr, Mina A'Salam, Dar Al Masyaf and Al Naseem), over 40 restaurants and bars, Souk Madinat Jumeirah and the 1,000-seat Madinat Arena, all linked by more than 3 km of navigable waterways plied by traditional abra boats. The Burj Al Arab stands just steps away along the same coastline

The architectural project for the entire Madinat Jumeirah complex, including Al Qasr, was designed by DSA Architects International. The original brief called for the creation of a luxury resort within an ancient Arabian citadel: the design team studied the cultural fabric of Dubai, from its humble beginnings as a small fishing community to the tradition of its historic forts and coral-and-lime courtyard houses that the city’s founders built along the banks of the Creek. Al Qasr is the grandest translation of this vision, with palatial architecture celebrating Arabian hospitality through decorative wind towers, Moorish arches and internal garden courts.

The entrance is announced by a driveway lined with 18 full-sized gilded horses and mature date palms. In the lobby, the walls are clad in rare Azul Bahia marble from Brazil, and a five-tonne Swarovski crystal chandelier hangs overhead. The 294 rooms and suites (from Lagoon Deluxe Room to Family Suite and the three-bedroom Royal Suite) combine understated luxury with contemporary comfort through arabesque furnishings, premium carpeting and marble bathrooms with Amouage amenities. The Talise Spa, Talise Fitness centre and private beach complete an experience that unites cultural heritage with world-class hospitality.

Year
2004

Architecture Studio
DSA Architects International

Client
Jumeirah Group (Dubai Holding)