The welcome
Guests are whisked into a lift upstairs to reception, rather than the regular check-in process. When we arrive, there’s a desk in the lower foyer that looks like it could be the reception, but it had no one manning it. After a few confusing moments, however, we’re ushered up to the actual reception, where check-in takes place.
The neighbourhood
This four-star Hyatt is in a handy location, a block back from Dubai Creek, within walking distance of the popular Gold Souk, as well as Baniyas Square Metro station. It’s a 20-minute drive or taxi ride from Dubai International Airport. The hotel is in the old city, and constantly abuzz. There’s plenty to see and do – all you need to do is start walking.
The room
We’re staying in a standard room, which features a king bed and a suitably named “cozy corner”, which has a sofa bed. I’m impressed with the view, which looks out over the park below. The white linen and subtle interior design touches, which combine Arabic influences with natural wood finishes, are nice, too. All told, it’s comfortable and convenient.
The service
It could be better. Check-in is a little slow, and service calls aren’t answered as promptly as expected, especially considering the hotel officially opened two months before our visit. That said, a bellboy who serves us is very knowledgeable about the area and the facilities, and for the most part, the staff are attentive, despite a disappointing food-intolerance error with the service staff at dinner.
The scene
Very family-orientated. When we check in, there’s a family of eight waiting to check in, too, and that proves indicative of the rest of our stay. Everywhere we turn, there are families or couples, especially round the pool area and the hotel’s only eatery, the Gallery Cafe. There’s no bar area, but being so close to the historic heart of the city, there’s plenty to do outside of the hotel, so there’s no real reason to hang out at the property.
The food
The breakfast selection at the Gallery Cafe is very basic, but should provide everything that those on a budget are looking for. There are eggs, yogurt, fresh fruit, toast, pastries and a variety of cereals to choose from, and the meal is included in the room cost. For our evening meal, my opinion is a little clouded by the experience I have with the riyash (Dh60) which was supposedly gluten-free, according to a special menu that I was provided with, after informing the hotel about my dietary requirements. But when it arrives, the lamb is resting on non-gluten-free bread. My parents, however, enjoy the biryani (Dh50) and traditional fish and chips (Dh45).
Loved
The handy location and the view from our room, not to mention the enthusiastic bellboy.
Hated
The lack of understanding of food intolerances is inexcusable.
The verdict
The perfect hotel for tourists and families wanting to get among the old-city action without an exorbitant price tag.
The bottom line
Rooms at Hyatt Place Dubai/Baniyas Square (www.dubaibaniyassquare.place.hyatt.com; 04 404 1234) cost from Dh534 per night, including taxes, breakfast and Wi-Fi.
mhealy@thenational.ae
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