The Lana represents the much-anticipated debut of the Dorchester Collection in the Middle East. This new, intimate, 225-room hotel in Downtown Dubai is the epitome of “anti-bling” – and a sign that Dubai really is able to hold its own among the big-name global cities that the Dorchester Collection already operates in. It’s clear that architecture firm Foster + Partners designed this 30-storey hotel around the views: the circular Marasi Marina sits in the foreground, its inky blue waters reflecting the lights of Downtown Dubai’s skyscrapers at night; and Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, reaches into the clouds just beyond. Suites consist of a bedroom, living and dining area, entertainment room, kitchenette, walk-in wardrobe and dressing area, and a bathroom where a large bathtub is wrapped in white and grey-veined marble.
But it’s on the micro level that The Lana really sets itself apart: in the 100 per cent goose-down duvets; Dyson Supersonic hair dryer; the heated toilet seats. Bed linen is custom made by Frette and mattresses are Vispring, preferred supplier to Buckingham Palace. Dubai’s first Dior spa is due to open here soon. For the hotel's restaurant, Riviera, Jean Imbert has created a soulful ode to the coastal cuisines of France and Italy, with a menu that journeys from La Spezia down to Saint Tropez, via Portofino, Genova, Monaco and Nice.