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One&Only Za’abeel: A Sky-High Icon in the Heart of Dubai

Published on 31 March 2024•4 minutes
Written by Hugo Audouy

Step into the rarefied world of One&Only Za’abeel, Dubai’s new architectural showpiece by visionary designer Jean-Michel Gathy. Here, soaring lines and dramatic perspectives frame a sanctuary of hushed luxury, where crisp contemporary design meets uncompromising comfort. Bathed in natural light, every space opens onto sweeping views of the city’s famed skyline, turning the metropolis into a breathtaking backdrop. A bold new chapter in urban resort living, this vertical oasis is already redefining what a stay in Dubai can be. Official website

Map of One&Only Za’abeel: A Sky-High Icon in the Heart of Dubai

Explore the surroundings

Dubai Fountain

Dubai Fountain

Huge fountain offering sound-and-light shows with water jets reaching up to 140 meters.

4.8
Fountain
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Burj Park

Burj Park

This small island with lush lawns offers views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain.

4.8
Park
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St. Mary's Catholic Church, Dubai

St. Mary's Catholic Church, Dubai

Lively church with daily services in multiple languages and an attached Catholic school.

4.8
Tourist attraction
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Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa

Skyscraper 828 meters tall topped by a spire, featuring an observation deck, a restaurant, a hotel and offices.

4.7
Landmark
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AYA Universe

AYA Universe

4.7
Tourist attraction
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Sky Views Observatory

Sky Views Observatory

4.5
Observation deck
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Deira Island Beach

Deira Island Beach

4.5
Park
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Hor Al Anz Park

Hor Al Anz Park

Enclosed green space featuring a basketball court, a shaded play structure, swings and benches.

4.2
Park
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Dubai Frame

Dubai Frame

Unique 150-meter-tall building shaped like a picture frame, with historical exhibits and panoramic views.

4.6
Monument
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Zabeel Park

Zabeel Park

Picturesque 47-hectare park, with a flea market, a giant picture-frame monument and other attractions.

4.6
Park
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Jean-Michel Gathy: The Visionary Behind Dubai’s First Vertical Resort

In a world where luxury hotels constantly push the boundaries of innovation, few projects manage to redefine exclusivity as convincingly as One&Only Za’abeel in Dubai. This architectural statement, imagined by visionary designer Jean-Michel Gathy, renowned for his trailblazing approach to luxury hospitality, marks a turning point in the city’s hotel landscape. With One&Only Za’abeel, Gathy brings a fresh dimension to Dubai’s skyline, in a destination already famous for its bold architecture and love of grandeur. Rising in a vibrant district, the resort showcases a striking fusion between the evocative allure of the East and the futuristic spirit of the metropolis. More than a hotel, it is conceived as an ode to harmony and balance, inspired by the tones and majesty of the desert that encircles the city.

Design That Strikes the Imagination and Soothes the Senses

The interiors of One&Only Za’abeel live up to the reputation of their creator. Every space is crafted to inspire a feeling of calm and timeless elegance, underpinned by a refined, contemporary sophistication. The pared-back design creates an enveloping sense of tranquillity, where luxury is expressed through understatement and meticulous attention to detail. Materials range from fine woods and delicate textiles to crystal lighting and exceptional carpets, all handpicked for their quality and their ability to deliver a distinct sensory experience. The layout of the public and private areas is carefully judged to balance scale with intimacy, giving guests a setting where beautiful design naturally encourages relaxation and escapism.

Rooms and Suites Shaped as Personal Luxury Retreats

The rooms and suites at One&Only Za’abeel go far beyond the conventional idea of hotel accommodation. Dressed in a palette of soft, soothing tones, they feel like private cocoons where comfort and luxury are seamlessly aligned. Space is used intelligently, with every detail oriented towards showcasing sweeping views of Dubai’s dynamic skyline, turning each stay into a vivid, memorable experience. Floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies invite the city panorama into the room, making the urban landscape part of the interior design itself and creating a distinctive connection with Dubai. This is especially striking in a place where architecture and city planning are as emblematic as the local culture.

An Invitation to Exclusivity and Discovery

Beyond its outstanding accommodation and interiors, One&Only Za’abeel stands out for a curated range of experiences designed to delight and surprise. Dining here spans restaurants that promise original culinary journeys, while the wellness and relaxation areas redefine what a luxury spa can be. Leisure facilities are conceived for all generations, supporting an exceptionally versatile stay. On-site and off-property activities are carefully selected to offer a deep dive into Dubai life, where tradition and modernity exist side by side with ease.

One&Only Za’abeel is not simply another addition to Dubai’s hotel scene; it is a new landmark, embodying the city’s ongoing ascent to ever higher levels of luxury and innovation. Jean-Michel Gathy once again demonstrates that with vision and boldness, architecture can transcend its primary function to become a living work of art, inviting guests to explore every nuance.

Hugo Audouy
Written by Hugo Audouy—About the author