Rooftop parties, pools with DJs, and legendary views of the Marina. We tell you why this hotel has become a style icon, who it’s perfect for, and who should consider another option.
Dubai is a city where luxury constantly reinvents itself. But what if, instead of gilded interiors and serene tranquility, you’re looking for energy, music, and the epicenter of social life? That’s exactly what FIVE Palm Jumeirah delivers. Forget the classic 5-star hotel on the Palm. FIVE is a phenomenon, the ultimate party hub, and the place everyone who wants to be at the heart of the action aspires to visit. This article is your comprehensive guide to the world of FIVE. We’ll help you determine whether its famous vibe matches your expectations and plan your trip to maximize your experience while avoiding any pitfalls.
What is FIVE Palm Jumeirah?: It’s a hotel where entertainment comes first, and rooms come second. When you book a night here, you’re essentially buying a ticket to the center of Dubai’s social scene: access to parties and restaurants that the entire city dreams of attending.
First impression: How FIVE’s architecture sets the tone for the party
The first thing that catches your eye when you see FIVE Palm Jumeirah is its bold, strikingly photogenic architecture. A futuristic building with a giant central arch and a glass cube at its heart is the perfect backdrop for your Instagram reel. Since its opening in 2017, it has become one of Palm Jumeirah’s most recognizable landmarks. And here, architecture is truly more than just a background—it’s a full-fledged party guest, creating dozens of Instagram-worthy spots and setting the tone for your entire stay.
A million-dollar view: Why FIVE’s location is its greatest asset
The hotel’s main highlight is its view. From most rooms, restaurants, and of course, the legendary rooftop terrace, you’ll enjoy that quintessential, iconic panorama of Dubai Marina and JBR’s forest of skyscrapers. By day, it’s a play of azure waters and pristine white yachts, while at night, a pulsating glow of lights stretches out beneath you—the very sight that has become synonymous with modern Dubai.
The hotel’s location on the “trunk” of Palm Jumeirah has a dual nature. On one hand, it offers a prestigious and secluded spot right by the waterfront; on the other, it’s just 10–20 minutes by taxi from Dubai Marina’s main nightlife hubs, restaurants, and boutiques. However, keep in mind that traveling to downtown Dubai, home to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, will take longer, especially during peak hours.
Travel time to key locations (approximate):
- Dubai Marina / JBR: 10–25 minutes
- Mall of the Emirates: 15–30 minutes
- Dubai Mall / Burj Khalifa: 25–50 minutes
- DXB Airport: 30–60 minutes
Tip: Taxis and services like Uber/Careem are your best friends for getting around Palm Jumeirah. It’s fast, comfortable, and makes it easy to reach any part of the city, especially the bustling Dubai Marina.
Where will you sleep? A breakdown of rooms based on your vacation scenarios
FIVE Palm Jumeirah offers a total of 470 rooms and suites, and to help you navigate your choice, let's explore three main scenarios:
Scenario 1: You're traveling as a couple, and the view is your top priority.
In this case, your choice should be the Luxe Sea View (38 m²). While there's also a basic Superior option, it's the 'luxury sea view' room that will provide you with that postcard-perfect panorama of the Marina, which is exactly why people come here. Inside, you'll find a stylish modern design, a comfortable bed, and everything you need for comfort, but the highlight is the balcony, which will become your personal viewing platform.
Scenario 2: You've arrived with a group of friends and need space.
Forget about the standard rooms. Instead, consider the suites: the Junior Suite (55 m²) offers an extra living area for gatherings, while the spacious Luxe One/Two Bedroom Suite (80-125 m²) are practically full-fledged apartments. With separate bedrooms, living rooms, and fully equipped kitchens, they're ideal for comfortably accommodating a large group.
Scenario 3: You want to throw your own exclusive party.
For this, FIVE has the ultimate weapon — the Four Bedroom Duplex Suite with Private Pool (250 m²). Essentially, it’s a private two-level villa inside the hotel, complete with its own pool on the terrace. The perfect spot to gather all your friends and host an unforgettable party with the best view in town.
The center of attraction: Restaurants and clubs that bring all of Dubai to FIVE
The key thing to understand about the restaurants and bars at FIVE is that they have a life of their own. They’re not just service points for hotel guests; they’re standalone magnets drawing in Dubai’s entire trendy crowd. People come here specifically to dine and have fun, and hotel guests simply get an exclusive backstage pass.
A Guide to FIVE’s Establishments:
- For panoramic views and top DJs: The Penthouse
- For high-end Italian cuisine: Cinque
- For a vibrant Chinese brunch: Maiden Shanghai
- For beachside sunset parties: Praia
The Penthouse: a legend on the rooftop
The Penthouse is the heart and soul of the hotel. During the day, it’s a luxurious chill-out area by the rooftop pool, offering that very same 360-degree view. And as the sun sets, this place transforms into one of the hottest clubs in town, featuring world-renowned DJs and an atmosphere charged to the limit.
Gastronomic stars: Cinque and Maiden Shanghai
FIVE is not just about parties; it’s also about haute cuisine. Cinque will transport you to the Amalfi Coast with its modern Italian cuisine and exquisite interior design. Maiden Shanghai offers a bold take on Chinese cuisine styled after the 1920s and is famous for its lively and fun brunches.
A seal of quality: The high standard of cuisine at FIVE is internationally recognized: the restaurant Cinque has been featured in the prestigious Michelin Guide. Be sure to book your table in advance!
Praia: from sunset on the sand to dancing under the stars
Praia is a beach club where the carefree seaside vibe smoothly transitions into energetic open-air parties on the sand as evening approaches. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand, accompanied by sets from trendy DJs.
Recharging after the party: Pools, beach, and SPA
Despite its reputation as a party hotel, FIVE also offers excellent opportunities for relaxation. Forget about quiet swims. The main 55-meter pool, running through the heart of the hotel, serves as a catwalk, auditorium, and stage all at once. Music is always playing here, fashion events are held, and life is bustling.
For a more relaxed getaway, the hotel features its own private beach stretching 150 meters. It is fully equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas and offers full-service amenities, including a bar and a water sports center.
To recharge after a busy night, drop by the modern The Spa at FIVE. You’ll find massages, comprehensive treatments, and a thermal area with a sauna, hammam, and hydrotherapy pool. And for those who don’t skip their workouts, there’s a 24-hour fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment.
Is it possible to stay at FIVE with children?: The hotel has a kids' club and a swimming pool, so formally it's 'family-friendly.' However, the dominant party atmosphere makes it more of an acquired taste. It’s best suited for families with teenagers or if you’re comfortable with loud music.
A practical guide to FIVE: Budget, tips, and reviews
Inspired? Now let’s dive into the details and plan your perfect trip.
How much does a stay at FIVE really cost?
FIVE Palm Jumeirah falls into the high-price segment. The cost of a standard room starts from $250 in the low season and can exceed $460 in the high season. But that’s not the final amount.
- Taxes and fees: When booking, add around 22% to the room rate (VAT, service, and municipal charges).
- Tourism Tax: A fixed Tourism Dirham fee of 20 AED (approximately $5.5) per room per night is charged separately.
- Deposit: Upon check-in, the hotel will request a security deposit (typically 1000–2000 AED), which is refundable upon departure if you have not used any paid services.
Important: figures may change!: The room rates, tax amounts, and deposit sizes provided here are current as of the date this guide was written. Be sure to verify accurate and up-to-date information on the hotel's official website or booking page before your trip to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
The secret to smart savings: which meal plan should you choose?
The hotel offers various meal plans, but for the FIVE format, the "bed and breakfast" (BB) rate is often the most sensible choice. This gives you the freedom to visit iconic restaurants and bars without restrictions.
Attention: half board and full board!: HB and FB meal plans primarily include dinners at the buffet restaurant. To access famous eateries like Cinque or The Penthouse, you'll only be given a small credit that won't cover the bill. To avoid overpaying, opt for the breakfast-included rate and enjoy the freedom of choice.
What guests are saying: real pros and cons
To get a complete picture, it's important to know not only about the advantages but also about the drawbacks noted by guests.
What guests love about FIVE:
- An unparalleled party atmosphere and a constant sense of celebration.
- Stunning views of Dubai Marina.
- High level of service and friendly staff.
- Impeccable cleanliness in rooms and throughout the property.
Complaints include:
- High noise levels from music by the pool and in the bars (the main drawback for those seeking tranquility).
- High prices for food, drinks, and mini-bar services.
- During peak hours, the pool area and beach can get extremely crowded.
Your verdict: Is FIVE the perfect spot or just too much of a party?
FIVE Palm Jumeirah is truly more than just a hotel. It’s a meticulously crafted experience, a hybrid of a luxurious beach resort and an elite club, where you pay not only for your room but also for access to an exclusive social environment.
Who will enjoy it here?: FIVE Palm Jumeirah is your ideal choice if you’re young at heart (and probably in your passport too), love being at the center of the action, appreciate stylish design and quality music, and are ready to pay for it. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, and anyone traveling to Dubai for vibrant experiences.
Who should look for another hotel?: This hotel is absolutely not suitable for you if you’re looking for peace, privacy, and a quiet family vacation. Loud music by the pool and in the bars isn’t accidental—it’s part of the hotel’s DNA. If this is a downside for you, it’s better to consider other options on Palm Jumeirah.
So yes, FIVE Palm Jumeirah isn’t just a hotel. It’s your personal stage. The key is to be prepared for a full house.
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