For people who have been here before, Dubai is a treasure trove. For first time visitors, it is an endless surprise. Whilst still retaining its original, evocative Arabian atmosphere, it now offers some of the finest accommodation, recreational facilities, dining and shopping to be found anywhere on earth.

Designed to resemble the graceful sails of an Arabian dhow, Burj Al Arab soars to a height of 321 meters and is less than 20 kilometres south of Dubai city, dominating Dubai's coastline.

Adjacent to Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Wild Wadi waterpark, and in close proximity to Mall of Emirates, Ski Dubai, The Palm Jumeirah and array of world-class golf courses, Burj Al Arab is perfectly located and acts as a landmark at the very heart of Dubai.

The interior design of Burj Al Arab is evocative of a contemporary Arabian fantasy. The magnificent lobby is sumptuously carpeted in a rich combination of vibrant colours and lavish materials. Chairs and sofas, upholstered in flame-reds and yellows, continue the theme.

The mezzanine fountain, a kaleidoscope of colour and patterns, is programmed to shoot a water column up to 32 metres in the air, drawing the eye up the gold columns to the triangular blue ceiling 180 metres away.

Slowly it becomes apparent just how spacious the interior is. This feeling is heightened by the impressive view of the Arabian Gulf afforded by the hotels huge panoramic windows.