Dubai’s ‘seven star’ Burj Al Arab to close for 18-month renovations

One of Dubai’s most famous luxury hotels is closing its doors until 2027 to undergo a “carefully phased restoration programme”.

As of May, Jumeirah Burj Al Arab will be shut to guests, with a reopening expected late next year.

The 60-storey hotel, opened in 1999, was hit by an intercepted drone in February.

A notice on the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab website reads: “Jumeirah Burj Al Arab is currently undergoing a carefully phased restoration programme designed to refresh and upgrade the hotel's iconic decor 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.”

Refurbishment plans include a redesign of all 198 suites and a spa upgrade led by French interior architect Tristan Auer, reported The Sun.

Standard suites at the hotel start from around £650 per night during off-peak travel times.

Luxury facilities include a round-the-clock butler service, an adults-only infinity pool and a Michelin-starred restaurant. The hotel markets itself as being a ‘seven star’ venue.

In February, the Burj Al Arab was damaged by an intercepted drone following US-Israeli attacks on Iran that triggered retaliatory assaults across the region.

“Authorities confirm that a drone was intercepted, and debris caused a minor fire on the Burj Al Arab's outer facade,” the Dubai Media Office wrote on X on 28 February. “Civil Defence teams responded immediately and brought the incident under control. No injuries have been reported.”

The UK Foreign Office (FCDO) currently advises against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai.

Read more: Iconic Dubai hotel Burj Al Arab on fire after being hit by shot-down Iranian drone