Form Hotel is the first designer hotel in the UAE. With 136 well-designed rooms, it’s a rather small hotel for Dubai but you can expect everything you need during your stay. The rooms are minimalistic; mainly white with wide windows with a nice view of Dubai. It is situated in the Al Jadaf area, a cultural area between Dubai International Airport and downtown Dubai.
Formal or laid back? What’s the first impression upon arrival?
The sleek design of the hotel stands out in Dubai. The interior is minimalistic but with plenty of reference to the history of the Al Jadaf area, which was historically a dhow building area (wooden traditional boats). The wood used for building these boats is also used throughout the interior of the Form Hotel – giving it a warm feeling despite the predominant minimalism. Al Jadaf is also rapidly becoming a bustling part of the city thanks to the development of Dubai Culture Village, making it the perfect location for the Form Hotel.
Jet setters or families? What’s the crowd like?
The hotel has a very European vibe, clearly attracting millennials and travelers looking for leisure. During my stay, there were big groups of Asian travelers. The hotel plans to change its policy to adults only in the future with a focus on the more modern travelers.
Scandinavian minimalism or roaring twenties? What are the rooms like?
The wide windows and minimalistic look give the room a very spacious feel. All rooms have wooden elements referring to the history of the hotel, a small desk, a huge flatscreen TV and a sitting area. The rooms don’t have carpets or curtains for hygienic reasons; overall the rooms look affordably luxurious. The bed is extremely comfortable!
What about details?
What stands out is the artificial intelligence (AI) used for services offered by the hotel, including room and concierge services. It is operated from a smart TV which can also mirror the screen from your tablet or computer so you can watch your favorite Netflix series from the comfort of your bed. The filtered organic coffee is delicious, and the hotel also offers two bottles of complimentary water each day. The Wi-Fi is fast and free. An iron is available upon request.
Shower, tub or jacuzzi? What’s the bathroom like?
The bathroom has a walk-in shower and separate toilet but no windows. The toiletries are rather basic.
Wining or dining? What’s the food like?
You can order room service through the AI feature in your room. I’d recommend eating at the Long Hill Brasserie downstairs since it’s a beautiful restaurant offering plenty of clean eating and balanced meals. The hotel doesn’t serve alcohol, so you’ll have to go elsewhere for a glass of wine with your meal.
Bed, bath & beyond: are there any other services worth mentioning or notable features?
On the rooftop, you will find a half-length Olympic pool and a view of the Burj Khalifa. Next to the pool, you will find a 24-hour gym. The central location of the hotel is also a big plus; 10 minutes from the airport, 10 minutes from downtown and 10 minutes from old Dubai (Deira). There are free shuttles transporting guests to the closest beach area a few times a day. At the moment of writing this article, Al Jadaaf is a rather deserted location, but by 2022 the area will turn into a second downtown with plans of opening the biggest library in the middle east, several museums and the highest tower in the world: the Dubai Creek Tower. There is an easy-going vibe throughout the hotel.
What is really, and we mean really, worth mentioning about your stay?
The AI feature worked mind-blowingly well. The minimalistic design and laidback feel of the hotel made me feel right at home.
The million-dollar question? Would you stay here again and why?
Absolutely. The value of the hotel – around $80 per night – makes up for some of the Uber drives towards The Palm or downtown. Staying at the Form Hotel is really good value for money.
For more information about Form Hotel Dubai and bookings visit the website of Design Hotels.