Top seven Dubai-only luxury experiences

The famed Queen Elizabeth II (QE2) ocean liner has been given a new lease of life as a floating hotel in Dubai. From its new home in Port Rashid, visitors can tour the QE2's key features, including the Captain’s Bridge, vintage cabin designs from the 1960s, original paintings dating back to the 1840s, and much more. Tours are hosted by Peter Warwick, a QE2 staff member who served onboard its sailing days, so you can expect plenty of insider insights and stories of famous guests. Not ready to leave? Spend the night in one of two royal suites: the Queen Elizabeth or the Queen Mary – previously exclusively reserved for members of the Royal Family.

Imagine soaring above rolling sand dunes on a hot air balloon, watching the sunrise on a once-in-a-lifetime desert setting. Now, imagine all this for just the two of you. The expert team at Balloon Adventures regularly organises private sessions for couples or small groups, with just the pilot in the basket with you. While the panoramic views are memorable enough, there will be a special gourmet breakfast waiting for you back on land, served in style at an exclusive royal retreat.

The only other Caesars Palace property besides the one in Las Vegas can be found at Dubai's chic Bluewaters Island. In keeping with its exclusive vibe, the hotel's Qua Spa features a series of wellbeing highlights such as the country's first Iyashi Dome – a Japanese-inspired experience that uses cleansing infrared rays – a unique quartz bed for thermal therapies, and even signature treatments using 24-carat gold. Try the Golden Glow facial, which uses 24-carat gold leaf and pure collagen for the ultimate glow.

If a lavish afternoon by one of Dubai's many beaches has spoiled you for the better, then book a night at the Burj Al Arab. The Royal Suite is the definition of luxe living, stretching across two levels at 780sqm and resplendent with marble and gold detailing. The hotel's largest suite features plush Arabian furnishings, personal butlers, a private library, priority use of the helipad, an extensive pillow menu and incomparable views of the city. One for very special occasions!

Glamping means you can enjoy all the creature comforts of hotels, in an unmatched outdoor setting. Trust Dubai to take this trendy concept a notch above most, in the sweeping expanse of the desert. Platinum Heritage offers a memorable safari and stay experience where you can explore the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve on a guided tour, spotting native wildlife like Arabian oryx and gazelles, followed by a falconry demonstration and a delectable multi-course dinner of roast duck, oysters, Australian steak and more. At the end of the night, you can retire to your luxe private cabana, set beside a glittering oasis. Still tempted by an old-school hotel experience? Dubai also boasts five-star resorts on the sands, such as Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa and Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa where uninterrupted fun on the desert dunes await.

Journey along the city's iconic waterways and beyond by chartering a yacht, complete with refreshing snacks and beverages, served by a smiling crew. Check out Xclusive Yachts to choose from a variety of options, with great deals on offer, especially during the summer months. While temperatures in the city can hover around 40 ̊C, you can expect it to be at least a few degrees cooler out at sea. Xclusive also accept tailored bookings for a dream adventure – choose your preferred departure time, unwind on the sun deck and drop anchor for a spot of fishing, which can then be grilled in the yacht's kitchen – your seafood meal won't get fresher than this!