Bazaar Arabia Escapes To Banyan Tree Dubai
Perched on picturesque Bluewaters Island, the Banyan Tree Dubai marries French Riviera chic with Asian hospitality
It’s hard to pick which aspect impresses most: the sheer expanse – the three-bedroom Harmony Royal Suite sprawls over 315sqm – or the serene water views, shown uninterrupted thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. The Banyan Tree resort’s signature striped orange and white umbrellas can be seen outside, framing the pools, seemingly straight out of a Slim Aarons snap. But although the pristine beach, sparkling water and Riviera-style restaurant Alizée look inviting, you’ll also be loathe to leave the sanctuary of your plush private space.
In hotels you often find suites designed for visual impact – ideal for Instagram shots – or those that cater to comfort. Blink Design Group has ensured that this one ticks both boxes. The layout ensures the whole family can enjoy time together with shared living rooms, or saunter off to a cosy bedroom to enjoy some privacy. Balconies ensure the outside comes in, with dark woods, room dividers and neutral shades, plus a standalone bath, securing calm inside. The smell of incense, lit at turndown, lingers through the air at night, further adding to the atmosphere.
Pop little ones aged three to twelve into the activity packed kids’ club (with its own covered pool for safe frolicking), and maintain your feeling of serenity with a tailored treatment at the strongly Asian-accented Spa – book the Rainforest Suite with its own hydrotherapy, sauna and steam rooms so no one else impinges on your zen. When it comes to culinary adventures, you can go to the Far East thanks to celebrity chef Alvin Leung’s Demon Duck, indulge in Japanese treats and tea at lobby-based Tocha, or sit poolside at Alizée. In the wider complex, which also includes the Delano property, are a multitude of other options too, including sushi and A5 Kobe beef specialists Taka Hisa and Gohan.
Surrounded by water, there’s an innate tranquillity to this retreat that’s in keeping with the Phuket-born Banyan Tree DNA. It may seem a cliché, but in the case of this resort, you really do feel like you’ve escaped the bustle of the city to unwind.
Must try: La Cantine Beach Chef Yiannis’ Mediterranean menu is made for those who want to while away the afternoon with gastronomic gusto. Start with the king crab salad, then opt for the signature seafood risotto and finish with the best apple tart in town. There is also a bespoke menu for little-ones. For more information, visit lacantinebeach.ae
For more information, visit banyantree.com
Imagery Supplied
From the Harper’s Bazaar Arabia February 2026 issue.
