A LUXURIOUS OASIS OF HOSPITALITY EXCELLENCE
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Dubai, the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates stands as an epitome of luxury and hospitality excellence. From the moment one steps into its opulent confines, a world of unparalleled comfort, sophistication, and impeccable service unfolds. During my recent business trip to Dubai, I sought a retreat that seamlessly blended relaxation with convenience, and the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates proved to be the perfect sanctuary.
Upon arrival, I was greeted by the enchanting sight of the hotel’s grand lobby, a symphony of elegance and bustling activity. What struck me immediately was the personalized attention lavished upon guests – a hallmark of Kempinski hospitality. Two impeccably attired ladies, clad in the hotel’s signature red uniforms, welcomed me by name, setting the tone for the extraordinary experience that awaited. Their warm smiles and gracious demeanor instantly made me feel at home, a sentiment that would be echoed throughout my stay.
As I made my way to the reception desk, I couldn’t help but marvel at the sheer magnitude of the lobby, which exuded an air of refined sophistication. With its soaring ceilings, lavish furnishings, and direct access to the renowned Mall of the Emirates, it was clear that no detail had been spared in creating an ambiance of unparalleled luxury.
Having completed the seamless check-in process, I was whisked away to the 11th floor Executive Lounge by one of the delightful ladies in red, whom I later learned was named Begum. The lounge, with its exclusive ambiance and panoramic views of the city skyline, provided the perfect respite after a long journey. As I settled into the plush surroundings, I was greeted with a welcome drink and made to feel truly pampered by Begum’s attentive care.
While my room was being prepared, I took the opportunity to explore the Executive Lounge further, sampling an array of delectable treats and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. From the moment I arrived, it was evident that the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates spared no expense in ensuring the comfort and satisfaction of its guests.
Upon receiving word that my room was ready, I eagerly made my way to the 9th floor to discover what awaited me. As I entered the Grand Deluxe Room, I was immediately struck by the sense of luxury that enveloped me. From the spacious living area to the meticulously appointed furnishings, every detail spoke to the hotel’s commitment to providing a truly indulgent experience.
One of the most delightful surprises awaited me as I entered the room: a beautifully adorned round table, laden with an assortment of delicious treats. From macarons to fresh fruit and a refreshing bottle of water, it was clear that no detail had been overlooked in ensuring my comfort and satisfaction. However, the pièce de résistance was a stunning chocolate-framed photo of myself, a thoughtful touch that left me feeling truly special.
As I settled into my luxurious surroundings, I couldn’t help but admire the panoramic views of the city skyline from my window. With two 46-inch TV screens and high-speed Wi-Fi at my disposal, I knew that every convenience had been provided for my enjoyment and relaxation.
Of course, no stay at a luxury hotel would be complete without indulging in the lavish amenities of the bathroom. Here, too, the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates exceeded my expectations, with its sumptuous fixtures and luxurious toiletries providing the perfect sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.
With my client meetings looming on the horizon, I decided to take advantage of the hotel’s exceptional dining options to fuel my productivity. My first stop was Aspen, the lobby lounge renowned for its specialty afternoon teas and European cuisine. As I arrived for my meeting, I was struck by the elegant ambiance and attentive service that greeted me, setting the stage for a productive discussion over delicious coffee.
Later that evening, I reconvened with my UAE team for another meeting at Aspen, drawn once again by its inviting atmosphere and delectable offerings. Kempinski Mall of the Emirates serves up myriad cuisines, from authentic Levantine fare at Olea, with its live open kitchen, Spanish tapas and paella at Salero, European all-day dining at the grand Aspen Cafe, French fine-dining at Eugene Eugene and cutting-edge Cantonese at Xu. However, for dinner, I decided to venture further afield and experience the culinary delights of XU, the hotel’s Cantonese-inspired restaurant located on the second floor.
From the moment I stepped through the doors of XU, I was transported to a world of traditional and modern fusion, where Southeast Asian flavors melded seamlessly with Cantonese cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere, complete with a live DJ and attentive staff, set the stage for a dining experience unlike any other.
For starters, I indulged in the Spicy Seaweed Cucumber and Crispy Soft-Shell Crab, each dish bursting with flavor and expertly prepared. As I sipped on a refreshing Mango Pao cocktail, I couldn’t help but marvel at the culinary artistry on display.
Of course, no visit to XU would be complete without sampling their signature dish: the XU Cherry Wood Peking Duck. Served with thin pancakes, cucumber, spring onion, and duck sauce, it was a feast for the senses that left me craving more.
For the main course, I opted for the Black Bean Grouper accompanied by Stir Fried Green Bean and Black Pepper Vegetables. Each dish was a symphony of flavors, expertly crafted to tantalize the taste buds and satisfy the palate.
As I savored the last bite of my Lychee Milk Cake dessert, I couldn’t help but reflect on the culinary journey I had just undertaken. From start to finish, the experience had been nothing short of extraordinary, a testament to the culinary expertise and impeccable service that define the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates.
After a restful night’s sleep in the comfort of my luxurious accommodations, I awoke refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead. Eager to explore more of what the hotel had to offer, I made my way to Olea for breakfast, eager to sample the authentic flavors of dishes from six nations.
With its panoramic views of the city and extensive buffet spread, Olea provided the perfect start to my day. From traditional Lebanese dishes to Turkish delights, each bite was a culinary delight that left me craving more.
Following breakfast, I took some time to relax on the outdoor terrace near the pool, soaking in the warm Dubai sunshine and savoring a leisurely coffee. It was the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge before embarking on the day’s adventures.
One of the highlights of my stay was exploring the hotel’s proximity to the Mall of the Emirates, with its myriad entertainment options ranging from Ski Dubai to a 15-seat private cinema in a luxurious setting, just for you and your guests. Whether seeking thrills on the slopes or catching the latest blockbuster film, the hotel’s prime location ensured there was something for everyone.
Located within the luxurious Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Salero Tapas & Bodega offers a delightful journey through the flavors of Spain. As I entered the restaurant on a Thursday evening, I was greeted by lively Flamenco music and the aroma of Spanish cuisine.
The ambiance was lively and inviting, with the sounds of Flamenco music filling the air as dancers twirled and swirled in a captivating display of passion and skill.
As I explored the menu, I was struck by the diverse array of offerings, from traditional tapas to hearty paellas and indulgent desserts. Eager to sample a taste of everything, I opted for a selection of cold and hot tapas, each dish a masterpiece of flavor and presentation.
First up was the Ensalada de 3 tomates, a refreshing tomato salad bursting with vibrant colors and fresh Mediterranean flavors. The combination of ripe tomatoes, tangy vinaigrette, and fragrant herbs was a delightful precursor to the feast that awaited.
Next, I savored the Pinchos Morunos con Pisto Andaluz, tender chicken skewers marinated in aromatic spices and served with a side of Spanish ratatouille. The succulent meat paired perfectly with the rich, hearty flavors of the ratatouille, creating a harmonious symphony of taste and texture.
For the main course, I indulged in the Solomillo de ternera en costra de manchego, a decadent dish featuring tender beef tenderloin encased in a crisp coating of Manchego cheese gratin. Each bite was a revelation, with the savory beef complemented by the nutty richness of the cheese.
No Spanish meal would be complete without a taste of the sea, and the Paella de Marisco did not disappoint. Brimming with succulent seafood, including shrimp, mussels, and calamari, and infused with the fragrant aroma of saffron, it was a true culinary masterpiece that transported me to the shores of the Mediterranean.
As I sipped on a refreshing Ipanema cocktail, made with fresh passionfruit, orange, lime, and ginger ale, I couldn’t help but marvel at the depth and complexity of flavors that Salero had to offer. It was a true testament to the skill and artistry of the chefs behind the scenes.
To round off the meal, I indulged in two decadent desserts: the Pastel de queso, a Basque burnt goat cheese cheesecake that was rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent, and the Crema Catalana quemada, a caramelized Catalan cream that was the perfect balance of sweetness and sophistication.
In between meetings and leisure activities, I took full advantage of the hotel’s extensive leisure facilities, including the Infinity edge pool, K Wellness Health Club, and SENSASIA Stories Spa. While I regret not having the opportunity to experience the spa firsthand, I was impressed by the hotel’s commitment to health and wellness, providing guests with a range of options to relax and rejuvenate.
As my stay drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the exceptional experience I had enjoyed at the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. From the luxurious accommodations to the world-class dining options and impeccable service, every aspect of my stay had exceeded my expectations.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates to discerning travelers seeking a truly exceptional experience in Dubai. Whether for business or leisure, this luxurious oasis offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and sophistication, ensuring an unforgettable stay. I look forward to returning to this unparalleled haven of luxury on my next visit to Dubai.
