Floating Hotels in Dubai: Dubai, the city of audacious dreams and architectural marvels, continues to push boundaries. Forget five-star hotels and sprawling beach resorts; Dubai’s hospitality scene is setting its sights on the water with a lineup of innovative floating hotels.
Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of waves against your window, or sipping cocktails on a rooftop overlooking the glistening Arabian Gulf. These aren’t mere fantasies – they’re the reality awaiting guests at Dubai’s soon-to-be iconic floating hotels.
Here is a list of the top floating hotels in Dubai:
Floating Hotels in Dubai
Queen Elizabeth 2: A Maritime Legacy
Currently, Dubai boasts one existing floating hotel – the Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2). This majestic 13-deck vessel, named after the late British monarch, carries a rich history. Once a luxurious cruise ship, the QE2 has traversed the world’s oceans, completing over 1,400 voyages. Now, docked at Port Rashid, it offers a unique lodging experience just minutes away from Downtown Dubai and the iconic Burj Khalifa. Guests can choose from 447 comfortable rooms and indulge in delectable international cuisine at the Lido restaurant. History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Golden Lion, Dubai’s oldest pub, located within the QE2.
Kempinski Floating Palace: Luxury Afloat
For those seeking an ultra-luxurious escape, the Kempinski Floating Palace, slated to open in 2026, promises an unparalleled floating hotel experience. This five-star, 163-key hotel will be a haven of indulgence, featuring world-class restaurants, bars, a spa, swimming pools, and exclusive boutiques. But the pièce de résistance? A sprawling 25,000-30,000 square foot floating restaurant, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. Imagine savoring a gourmet meal while surrounded by the glistening turquoise waters of the Gulf. The Kempinski Floating Palace will further amplify its grandeur with a stunning glass pyramid roof adorning the main building and a dedicated yacht parking facility accommodating up to 16 yachts.
The Floating Seahorse: An Underwater Paradise
For a truly unique and immersive experience, look no further than the Floating Seahorse by Kleindienst Group. This innovative concept takes the form of intricately designed three-level villas nestled within The Heart of Europe, a man-made archipelago located in The World Islands. Each Seahorse villa boasts a distinct layout and size, but the highlight remains the world’s first underwater bedroom.
Imagine drifting off to sleep surrounded by vibrant marine life! The remaining floors comprise a sea-level living room and an upper deck featuring an al fresco lounge and snack bar. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors blur the lines between the interior and the surrounding aquatic environment, creating a truly captivating space. While completion is expected in 2026, these futuristic villas are currently available for purchase for a cool AED 20 million (approximately USD 5.4 million) – a hefty price tag for an unforgettable stay.
The Floating Venice: A Slice of Europe on the Water
Dubai’s love affair with over-the-top experiences extends to recreating iconic locations. The Floating Venice, also known as the Floating Lido, aims to become the world’s first five-star on-water accommodation featuring underwater cabins. This ambitious project, also situated in The Heart of Europe, promises to transport guests to the romantic canals of Venice. Imagine waking up to stunning views of the Dubai skyline and gondolas gracefully gliding past your window. While details about the underwater cabins are still under wraps, one thing’s for certain – The Floating Venice will be a landmark destination, offering a unique blend of European charm and Dubai’s breathtaking cityscape.
Dubai’s foray into floating hotels is a testament to its relentless pursuit of innovation and luxury. These pioneering projects offer more than just accommodation – they represent a futuristic vision of hospitality that blurs the lines between land and sea, creating truly unforgettable experiences for discerning travelers. With these marvels set to grace Dubai’s skyline in the coming years, the city further solidifies its position as a global leader in pushing the boundaries of travel and luxury.