ONE of the most famous hotels in the world is closing its doors until next year.
The Burj Al Arab in Dubai, which opened back in 1999 and is known for being a rare ‘seven star’ hotel. is to undergo a major renovation.
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The major project comes after the hotel was damaged by a drone being intercepted near the hotel in late February, which caused a minor fire and damage to the façade of the building.
However, the renovation was already planned before this happened.
As part of the refurb works, the hotel will redesign all of its 198 suites.
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Some of the hotels key interior design features will be kept, including the large aquarium and marble cladding.
The hotel’s spa will also be upgraded, as well as other guest areas.
The project will be led by French interior architect Tristan Auer, who is mainly known for his projects in France but has also worked on redesigning the interiors of the Royal Scotsman Belmond Train.
In a statement on the hotel’s website, it states: “Jumeirah Burj Al Arab is currently undergoing a carefully phased restoration programme designed to refresh and upgrade the hotel’s iconic décor while preserving its distinctive character.
“The programme has been developed through long-term planning, following more than 25 years of continuous operation.
“We would be pleased to assist with an alternative reservation in one of our Jumeirah properties in town.”
The hotel will be closed from this month and is expected to reopen in late 2027.
When staying at the Burj Al Arab, guests can expect a 24/7 butler service, an adult-only infinity pool and 10,000 square metre terrace.
If that wasn’t luxury enough, the hotel also boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant and an underwater aquarium experience.
It’s on its own man-made island and inside, some of its interiors even feature 24 carat gold.
Though, this doesn’t come cheap as it usually costs over £1,000 per night to stay at the hotel.
The Burj Al Arab is not the only hotel getting upgraded in Dubai either.
The Armani Hotel Dubai was closed on April 1 for a major refurb and is expected to reopen later this year.
JW Marriott Marquis is also partially closed to redesign all of its 1,608 rooms and suites.
Then, the Park Hyatt Dubai will close for a short period from May 2026 to finish off its renovation works that include upgrading rooms and refreshing the guest areas.
And finally, the St. Regis Dubai The Palm hotel is also currently temporarily closed for improvements.
However, Dubai remains on the do-not-travel list by the UK Foreign Office due to the ongoing Iran war.
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