Spotlight: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort
Whether your visit to Dubai is for work or for pleasure, the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort + Marina is a fabulous place to stay. The primary purpose of my trip was for business but given it was my first time there, I added on two days for sightseeing. [See my recommendations for what to see+do as well as where to eat.] Like others around the world, the Westin catered to my needs as a business traveler while also serving all of my "off duty" needs.
Upon arrival, I was greeted with smiles and a traditional Emirati welcome gift of medjool dates and mint lemonade. After hours upon hours of travel to get there, this was exactly what I needed. The champagne sent to my room by the Guest Manager made unwinding on my private balcony even better!
LOCATION. You just can't beat the Westin's location. It is very close to popular destinations such as the Palm Jumerai, Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai and the Marina. And for business travelers, it's a quick 5-minute ride to Knowledge Village and even closer to Media City and Internet City. With its private beach on the shores of the Persian Gulf, the property feels like a tropical resort nowhere near an urban environment. The highlights of the Westin for me are:
FOOD. Similar to other Western hotels in Dubai, the Westin is massive in size. It has 5 full restaurants and several bars, not to mention additional bars and restaurants next door at both the Marina and the Le Meridien hotel property. Located at the Westin are: Bussola (Italian), Asia de Cuba (Asian fusion), Spice Emporium (Thai), Hunters Room + Grill (steak) and Blue Orange (international). All have indoor and outdoor seating, which is terrific in months that are not scorching hot, and serve alcohol due to the Westin being a Western company. I ate at Spice Emporium, Asia de Cuba and Bussola on my visit; all 3 were very good.
RELAX. I admit I was tired during my week-long trip. Between jet lag and a busy work schedule, I was glad to have the pools and beach to help with relaxation. Service at each is prompt and friendly with a near constant supply of Evian spray and cold cucumber towels. Watching the sunsets through the palm trees was such a treat at the end of each day. If you need additional relaxation, the spa is said to be wonderful.
PARTY. Friday Brunch is a really popular activity in Dubai and the Westin's Bubbalicious Brunch is the most popular place to party. And a few nights a week, Asia de Cuba turns into a nightclub where both locals and tourists gather to drink and dance the night away. During the day, visit any one of a number of pool bars to cool off with a daiquiri whilst watching the sun set over the Gulf.
