The welcome
I visit quite soon after the hotel opens its doors, so the jitters and slight confusion at the entrance are easily forgiven. The nerves are apparent as valet and door staff fumble with their tags and work out who is going to do what. But as soon as we step into the lobby, all is forgotten and the process at the check-in counter is efficient and friendly.
The neighbourhood
The only other Caesars Palace property in the world besides the one in Las Vegas is situated on Bluewaters Island, the new man-made promontory overlooking Jumeirah Beach. Once fully operational, aside from the two Caesars properties (Caesars Resort is next door) and Cove Beach, the precinct will be home to more than 100 retail and dining concepts. Ain Dubai – the largest Ferris wheel in the world – towers over the property and is due to open this year. The hotel is a 10-minute taxi ride from Dubai Marina.
The room
Of the five room categories available, I'm staying in a one-bedroom suite that offers sweeping views over the pool and sea. It has a large combined living and dining area, a good-sized workstation and an expansive terrace. There are two washrooms, and the en suite is fitted with a curved tub with an accompanying head pillow. The quality of the amenities – by Italian perfumer Lorenzo Villoresi – adds to a sense of luxuriousness. While the room is mostly comfortable, the shower is not very functional in its design, spraying out of the recess. Faulty air conditioning in the bedroom and a rogue light that won't go off in the entry area are niggles that make for a restless first night, but thankfully issues are attended to swiftly once reported.
The service
Dealings with staff are better than expected, given the property is still new. They appear happy and proud to be part of the Caesars team and it is apparent that a lot of effort has been put into training. Special mention has to go to the pool staff, who are incredibly attentive, welcoming and thorough, and the team at Gordon Ramsey’s Hell’s Kitchen restaurant, who are on point from start to finish.
The scene
Romanesque in its design, the hotel expertly blends comfort and quality. It’s not overly busy when I stay, and has fewer “beautiful people” in its confines than the adjoining Cove Beach club, which is full of people looking to see and be seen.
The food
Hell’s Kitchen is the star culinary offering here, and given that it is only the second to open globally, it’s almost certainly the biggest draw for foodies. The restaurant offers a British-centric menu and an interior inspired by the trident of its logo. Entrees here start from Dh150. The restaurant also serves breakfast, so you can start your day with a decent selection of fruits, cereals, meats and cheeses, and more appetising hot dishes like Ramsay’s famous Eggs in Purgatory (shakshuka), eggs Benedict, apple crepes and passion fruit pancakes. It’s worth noting that the coffee here is as good as any you’ll find in Dubai, consistently so.
Zhen Wei is the other dinner restaurant on the property. The eatery offers indoor and outdoor seating and serves Pan-Asian fare. It boasts a dim sum master and a dedicated wok chef serving dishes that include Kung Pao Lobster and Cantonese sea bass. Small sharing plates cost from Dh35. The Roman Lounge is a great spot for a sunset drink, and there is a pool bar, too, for those wanting to snack between swims.
Loved
The theatre that goes along with the meal at Hell’s Kitchen, and The Rotunda – the purpose-built circular entertainment dome.
Hated
That I had to send a cappuccino back at the Roman Lounge because it was lukewarm – for Dh40, it should at least be hot.
The verdict
Great if you want to feel like you are on a beach anywhere in the world. This hotel is perfect for those who like the finer things in life.
The bottom line
Rooms at Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai (www.caesars.com/dubai/caesars-resort) cost from about Dh1,855 a night, including taxes and Wi-Fi. Breakfast is an additional Dh150 per person.
