A Pet-Friendly Getaway at the Radisson Hotel RED Dubai Silicon Oasis

In search of a pet-friendly staycation in Dubai, I stumbled upon the Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis. Located at Dubai Digital Park, in Dubai’s first-ever smart city project built with the latest AI and IOT technologies, the hotel resides a short 20-minute ride from the heart of town, where I found myself at one of the most charming hotels I’ve ever visited.

Since adopting Nico, a small Jack Russell puppy, my options have been limited for hotels, restaurants and other venues that I could visit and bring him along. Add the blazing Dubai summer and travel restrictions to the equation, there wasn’t much I could do with him outside of the home. So it was refreshing to arrive at a spot that not only welcomed pets, they made them feel at home.

Think of consistency – that is the first word that came to mind as I entered through the glass doors of the Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis. The first of its kind in the Middle East, the upscale hotel opened doors earlier in 2020 offering a differentiated service with a playful twist. The walls were covered floor to ceiling in artwork, all in vibrant red hues. The lobby continued with the red schematic throughout with red chairs, a red bike and even a food truck that serves both as a photo op, as well as a breakfast spot.

Rooms at Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis

With 104 contemporary designed and pet-friendly rooms, 8 suites and 59 apartments, Nico and myself stayed at the Premium Room – a spacious board consisting of a living area and suite. My first surprise happened as I entered the room, Nico had his own doggy bed and bowl set up, everything to ensure that he felt as comfortable as I did during our stay.

I was pleased to see that the artwork covering the living and bedroom walls had been created by regional artists, who had their Instagram handles credited on the walls. This gave a localized twist to the international concept that is the Radisson RED. The suite was massive, with a large red falcon painted on the wall, the hotel’s symbol. As per the bathroom – white and red tiles created music inspired designs on the walls, with flawless lighting to help in creating the perfect Instagram shot.

Dining at Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis

During my stay, I had an array of different meals. The one which impressed me the most was the Black + Blue Burger, which was composed of beef and blue cheese inside of a black bun. I enjoyed my burger by the pool at the RED Roof, but more on that later.

Nico and I had our dinner at the OUIBar + Terrace – yes, I said Nico and I. The restaurant welcomes pets, with a designated indoor area where you and your furry friend can enjoy a meal alongside other pet owners. I chose the Fish and Chips, whilst Nico opted for a bowl of Hugo & Celine pet ice cream, which is served at the hotel.

The OUIBar + Terrace clearly is a community spot. It was lovely to see that people were enjoying the bar’s happy hour and sipping on the large selection of cocktails, enjoying a lively Friday night. My cocktail of choice was an Aperol Spritz, the Radisson RED Dubai has a series of different interpretations of this classic drink.

In the morning, we were back to the OUIBar + Terrace for breakfast, where the restaurant served a set menu following the preventive regulations around COVID-19 where buffets are not permitted for hotel breakfasts in Dubai. There was a selection of different egg dishes, and I chose the Shakshouka. The portions were more than enough, including a pastry for starters, the main dish and a variety of sides. Needless to say that the unlimited coffee was my favorite part of breakfast.

The Pool at Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis

All the time that I wasn’t in my room, I spent by the pool in the RED Roof. Overlooking the neighborhood, the pool fits roughly 50 people and has its own bar. With plenty of seating, this is the perfect spot for some reading, tanning and enjoying a few of those delicious cocktails I mentioned before.

With a smaller cold and shaded pool right next to the main one, staying out of the heat was simple. Pets are not allowed in the pool facilities, but that was a non-issue, Nico stayed in the room with the television tuned into DogTV and resting his tiny paws.

The Staff at Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis

I have no shortage of compliments for my stay at the Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis, but without a shadow of a doubt, the best part was the staff.

This is a pet-friendly hotel where the staff clearly loves pets. Nico was welcomed and taken care of at every encounter we had with the team – the belly rubs were the cherry on top. Sai and Manuel, the pool bar staff treated me like a friend, with a warm smile every time I came by. And that was mimicked from check-in to check-out, at dinner and during breakfast – I was cordially met at every spot, even receiving compliments on my hairstyle.

The Verdict at Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis

I can honestly say that my night at the Radisson RED Dubai was one of my most pleasant stays I’ve had in a while. This hotel is a hidden gem and being able to bring Nico along only made it better. Having a dog completely changes one’s lifestyle, and you’re sometimes forced to compromise on your leisure time in order to accommodate your pet’s needs. At the Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis, there was no compromising. I enjoyed my down time, without having to worry about finding a place for Nico to stay, as well as enjoying his little company.

To book the Radisson RED Pet Staycation offer visit radissonhotels.com/red – Read more about our Editorial Policy here.