The Meydan Hotel: Off to the Races, Discovering Meydan

Departing Dubai’s main roads and heading into Meydan means to drift away from the city’s busy lifestyle and to step into an adventure inspired by the love of horse racing that run deeps through the veins of Emirati culture.

The Meydan Hotel has long been a staple in Dubai’s yearly calendar, holding the globally renowned World Cup which brings together crowds to watch the fastest horses making history in an elegant and magnificent setting. To stay at Meydan, means to embark into this rich heritage while indulging oneself into lush hospitality.

As a Dubai-kid, someone who grew up and saw the city become the metropolis it is today, I was looking forward to spending the night at a place that took me away from my overwhelming routine, without losing the essence of the Emirate.

At first glance, I was caught up in all the references of the magnificent animal that stars in the races. The ode to horses, from large statues to the small details creates consistency in every corner of the hotel. It’s possible to feel the pride and elegance of equitation flowing through high ceiling and glass halls of the lobby.

After a smooth check in, I arrived at my room. Vast wooden walls, lavish furniture, a large king-sized bed and a glass wall exposing a massive bathtub. By said bathtub, there was a small television which led me to my first order of business – a long and relaxing shower using the hotel’s aromatherapy products. 

After washing off the long work week, I headed to the balcony. I was met by the breathtaking view of the horse track. Perfectly trimmed grass expanding throughout the entire side of hotel, which’s modern glass structure created an ideal photo op. For those who enjoy an early rise, the horses put on a spectacle where guests can sit on the balconies of their very rooms and watch them train at around 5AM every morning. This is also the ideal place to stay during the races, where one can watch the adrenaline fueled experience from the comfort of their rooms.

As the sun set, I prepared myself for dinner. I stepped out into the lobby and I was met by a live pianist entertaining guests and elevating my experience. I headed into the charming courtyard, hungry and anticipating a fantastic feast.

For only 150AED per person, one can enjoy Courtyard Meydan’s Arabic BBQ Night with soft beverages. The set menu includes Arabic Mezzes, such as hummus and tabouleh, as well as your choice of Arabian Mixed Grill Platters or Seafood BBQ, where the food was cooked in front of me creating an authentic and exciting experience. The final touch was the live Arabic music, an idyllic atmosphere for a traditional date night. For those who enjoy shisha, the traditional smoking apparatus is also available to diners. 

Well fed and looking forward to an early morning, I headed back into my room, where I shut the electronic curtains and I spent a relaxing evening of movies in the plush bed.

As I woke up the following morning, I headed into Farrier’s Restaurant for breakfast with a vast array of options. From a live omelet cooking station to mouth-watering waffles and French toast. I sat outdoors, right by the racing track, where I listened to birds chirping while sipping on flawlessly prepared coffee.

My check out was scheduled for 2PM, which gave me enough time to bring my experience at the Meydan Hotel to a close at the rooftop infinity pool. Once again showcasing its exuberant horse track, the pool allows guests to enjoy the warm pool while sipping on cocktails. I took in the sun and pondered upon just how relaxed I felt after my stay.

I would highly recommend the Meydan hotel, for tourists and UAE residents alike. With polite and professional staff, an array of dining experiences and its unique view of the horse track – the hotel provides a singular getaway from the city. I look forward to returning to the hotel and potentially even watching the horse races from its luxurious rooms.