Dorchester Collection opens first hotel in the Middle East – Design Middle East

Dorchester Collection’s hotly anticipated new opening, The Lana, Dubai, has welcomed its first dining and overnight guests. An architectural statement designed by Foster + Partners, the hotel represents the ultimate expression of trusted hospitality and elevated living, offering 225 rooms and suites and eight new dining concepts; including four that have been created with three of the world’s most celebrated chefs.

The hotel’s sophisticated interiors have been designed and executed by the famed Parisian duo, Gilles & Boissier and incorporate a carefully curated section of more than 50 art pieces, commissioned by local and global artists. The Lana will also be home to the first Dior Spa in the UAE, set to open in April 2024.

A new era for Dorchester Collection

The Lana is the tenth Dorchester Collection hotel and represents the next chapter in the brand’s unparalleled, global sensibility of service and quality. The first new opening for the group in more than a decade, the property sets a new benchmark for design and timeless care and enchantment in the city of Dubai.

Commenting on the opening, Christopher Cowdray, president of Dorchester Collection, said: “As Dorchester Collection welcomes its first guests in the Middle East, we are entering a new era in our company history. The Lana is one of the year’s most anticipated hotel openings, and we are certain it will be celebrated for its remarkable design, superb location in one of the world’s most vibrant cities and a dining scene that will undoubtedly attract much local and international attention.”

Conceptualised and managed on behalf of Dubai-based developers: OMNIYAT, The Lana is the first step in curating a new phase for the Downtown Dubai neighbourhood. Speaking about his vision and further developments in the area, founder and chairman of OMNIYAT, Mr. Mahdi Amjad, said: “Working hand-in-hand with Dorchester Collection to bring their very first full hospitality offering to Asia and the Middle East brings us great joy, with the shared vision of bringing exceptional experiences to life.

Standing today in Marasi Bay Marina, The Lana marks our dedication to transforming the area into the ultimate luxury enclave in the heart of Dubai and is a representation of the city’s growth and development as a hub for those who seek a life of refinement. We are confident that this new era in Dorchester Collection’s legacy will open new doors for the experience of luxury lifestyle and living.”

Distinctive design

Foster + Partners took inspiration from Dubai’s ever-changing skyline for the 30-storey building. The striking interconnected design features a central podium – The Lana Promenade – for retail and restaurants, as well as an infinity rooftop pool with views over the cityscape and desert landscape beyond.

Influenced by the modern minimalism and the bright weather of Dubai, space and light are the defining features of the interior by Gilles & Boissier.  The designers took influence from the rich tapestry of cultural influence in the UAE, with a focus on intricate details and utilising textures. Each room features an outdoor terrace and floor-to-ceiling glass windows providing natural light and sweeping views.

The Lana’s five signature suites – Marina Duplex and Marina Terrace Suites – have unique duplex layouts, double-height corner living rooms, and outdoor terraces on both levels. The Marina Royal Suite, a magnificent presidential suite, features a balcony running along the length of the building, with sweeping views of Burj Khalifa, while the two-bedroom The Lana Royal Suite, envelops the north corner of the building.

An evolving Dubai district

Situated in the heart of the city near downtown Dubai, the hotel is located on the Marasi Bay marina, overlooking Burj Khalifa. Appealing to both business and leisure clientele, the hotel is a 15-minute walk from Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, and a 20-minute drive from Dubai International Airport.

The hotel will also provide guests with exceptional transportation options including custom Rolls-Royces and a futuristic foiler boat for leisurely cruises along the canal.

Unparalleled culinary programme

The Lana is home to eight restaurant and mixology concepts, four developed in collaboration with famed Michelin-starred chefs – Jean Imbert, Martín Berasategui, and pastry chef, Angelo Musa – and four original concepts operated by the hotel team.

Jean Imbert, who also leads the culinary team at Dorchester Collection’s Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris, has developed Riviera, a new modern Mediterranean restaurant inspired by his heritage and travels, and High Society located on the rooftop with 180° views across Downtown Dubai.

Martín Berasategui, who has collected 12 Michelin stars, has created Jara (opening mid-February), the first restaurant of its kind in Dubai serving Basque cuisine as well as Txakolina, a speakeasy cigar lounge. While Bonbon Café by Angelo Musa, also of Hôtel Plaza Athénée, brings a taste of Parisian glamour, serving viennoiseries, freshly baked bread, a range of chocolate bonbons and ice cream, as well as sandwiches and salads.

Other establishments will be led by the executive chef of the hotel, Oliver Jackson, and include Veranda, an open-air, lush garden bar serving signature cocktails, paired with a sharing menu of tapas and international dishes with a Levantine influence, and The Gallery, serving a signature afternoon tea with pastries courtesy of Angelo Musa. Lastly, Bitter Honey, will be an intimate bar, nestled within the splendour of the lobby of The Lana.

First Dior Spa in the UAE

From April 2024, guests will be able to experience the first Dior Spa in the UAE, located on 29^th floor of The Lana. With five treatment rooms and one couple’s suite, the spa’s elevated position allows light to flood in, and harnesses the renowned elegance of the House of Dior.

The Dior Spa The Lana will utilise cutting-edge technology into treatments, featuring Icoone Therapy, Hydrafacial, Dior Micro-Abrasion, and the Dior Skin Light LED therapy mask. It will also offer three signature treatments exclusive to The Lana, including Escale at The Lana, Dior Stone Therapy and D-Sculpt.