The ultimate guide to the floating hotel-museum: from royal cabins and historical tours to the best restaurants and practical tips. In a city striving toward the future, where skyscrapers pierce the clouds, there’s a place where time has stood still. At Port Rashid, not just any ship but an entire era has found its permanent berth—the legendary transatlantic liner Queen Elizabeth 2, transformed into a unique floating hotel. Forget standard hotels. The QE2 is your ticket to a time machine, where luxurious hospitality conceals authentic history, and the air is infused with the salty breeze of golden-age transatlantic voyages. This guide will be your navigator through the world of the QE2. We’ll explore its decks, peek into the cabins, sample dishes at its restaurants, and provide all the essential practical advice for planning an unforgettable stay.
Legend of the oceans: A brief history of the Queen Elizabeth 2
Launched in an era when transatlantic voyages were synonymous with luxury and adventure, the QE2 became an icon of maritime travel. It connected continents long before mass aviation made the world smaller, and its decks were walked by some of the most influential people on the planet. On board were members of the British royal family, Hollywood stars, and global celebrities, for whom traveling aboard the QE2 was an integral part of their status. But the liner’s story isn’t just about glamour and glitz. In 1982, during the Falklands War, the QE2 was requisitioned and converted into a military transport vessel for troop deployment. This dramatic episode added a stark chapter of courage and military duty to its illustrious history. Having completed a glorious career filled with countless round-the-world voyages, the liner did not retire quietly. Its farewell horn signaled the beginning of a new chapter: the Queen Elizabeth 2 dropped anchor in Dubai to become a unique hotel and a living monument to a great maritime era.
Should you drop anchor here? Who will find the perfect stay on the QE2 (and who won’t)
Before boarding, it's important to understand whether this unique experience matches your expectations for a Dubai getaway.
Ideal for:
- History buffs and lovers of one-of-a-kind experiences: If a hotel is more than just a place to sleep for you—it’s part of the adventure—then the QE2 will be a real discovery. It’s a rare chance not just to visit a museum, but to wake up inside one.
- Romantics: The atmosphere of the golden age of cruising, elegant dinners, and panoramic views of the city lights from the deck—all these create perfect conditions for a romantic weekend.
- Those seeking a "different" Dubai: Tired of skyscrapers' glitz and futuristic design? The QE2 offers an immersion into a world of elegant classics and British heritage right in the heart of Arabia.
You might want to look elsewhere if:
- You’re a fan of beach vacations: The liner is docked in the port, and getting to the nearest beaches will require transportation. There is no direct access to the sea for swimming here.
- You’re a fan of ultra-modern design: The interiors of QE2 are authentic classics. You won’t find minimalism or high-tech here—only carefully restored heritage.
- You want to be at the heart of the action: Located in Port Rashid, the setting offers peace and seclusion, but reaching major tourist attractions such as Dubai Mall or Burj Khalifa requires a taxi ride.
Important aspect: location: The QE2 hotel is situated in Port Rashid. It’s a quiet and atmospheric spot, but when traveling to main attractions, beaches, and malls, always factor in time and budget for taxis or car rentals.
Life onboard: Cabins and suites with history
Forget the word "room." Onboard the QE2, you’ll live in cabins—genuine ones, rescued from the past and lovingly restored, retaining their authentic maritime charm. Here, you’ll find original portholes, vintage furniture, and authentic finishes that transport guests back to the days of transatlantic voyages.
Standard & superior cabins
This is perhaps the most honest immersion into maritime classics. Yes, these cabins are compact, as befits a real ocean liner, but it’s precisely here that you’ll feel the true spirit of the ship. Sunlight streams through the thick glass of the round porthole, your hand touches the cool brass fittings, and a subtle scent of polished wood lingers in the air. Every detail here is genuine.
Captain's rooms & suites
Located on the upper decks, these spacious rooms were once reserved for the ship's officers. Their main advantage is the private balconies, offering stunning views of the Persian Gulf and the Dubai skyline. They are the perfect choice for those who appreciate extra space and the opportunity to enjoy fresh sea air while standing on their own deck with a cup of morning coffee.
Royal suites
The pinnacle of luxury aboard the QE2. It was in these suites that members of the royal family stayed during their voyages. Guests can look forward to spacious private verandas, luxurious interiors featuring exclusive furnishings, and impeccable service. Staying here is a unique chance to touch the royal history of the liner and feel like an elite passenger aboard a legend.
Tip: When booking, please specify the cabin location. Rooms on higher decks with views of the Dubai skyline offer the most breathtaking panoramas, especially at sunset.
From captain's dinner to Dubai's oldest pub: A guide to restaurants on the QE2
Gastronomy aboard the QE2 is a chapter unto itself in its history. Each establishment here doesn’t just feed you—it tells its own piece of the legend, whether it’s a story about luxurious first-class dinners or cozy gatherings at Dubai’s oldest pub.
The Queen's grill
The flagship fine-dining restaurant, preserving the spirit of exclusive dinners for first-class passengers. Its historic ambiance, menu inspired by original recipes from the liner’s golden age, and strict dress code turn dining here into a true event. It’s a place for special occasions, where the clinking of crystal and hushed conversations provide the backdrop for unforgettable gastronomic experiences.
Lido
A more casual restaurant featuring huge panoramic windows offering views of the sea and the city. Here, guests can enjoy international cuisine served both buffet-style and à la carte. Lido is especially renowned for its famous Friday brunches, which attract not only hotel guests but also Dubai residents looking to spend the day in an extraordinary setting.
The Golden lion
An authentic British pub, considered one of the oldest of its kind in Dubai. People come here for a pint of ale, classic pub dishes like fish and chips, and that unique atmosphere filled with the scent of wood and beer, where low ceilings and soft lighting create a sense of coziness and detachment from the bustling world outside. Major sporting events are also broadcast here, drawing fans from all over the city.
The Chart room
An elegant lounge bar, the perfect spot for an aperitif before dinner or a digestif afterward. The walls are adorned with original navigational charts and maritime artifacts, while the windows offer a view of Dubai's sparkling skyline. A tranquil atmosphere and an extensive cocktail menu make it an ideal place to unwind in the evening, accompanied by the gentle sounds of a piano.
Fact: The Golden Lion pub was entirely relocated from an active liner, preserving its original bar counter, furniture, and even the authentic spirit of a true British pub that sailed the oceans for decades.
More than just a hotel: Leisure and entertainment onboard
Staying on the QE2 is not only an opportunity to relax but also to immerse yourself in the unique history and culture of this legendary vessel.
Heritage tours
A must-do for every guest. During a guided tour, you'll have the chance to visit areas usually hidden from passengers' eyes: step onto the captain's bridge, explore the vast engine room, and hear fascinating stories about famous passengers, round-the-world voyages, and the secrets held by the liner.
Theatre by QE2
A one-of-a-kind theater aboard the historic liner, preserving its original appearance. The theater's repertoire is impressively diverse, ranging from Broadway productions and opera arias to live concerts, stand-up shows, and film screenings. An evening at this theater offers a unique cultural experience.
Deck and pool area
On the open deck, there’s a relaxation zone featuring a swimming pool and sun loungers. Here you can soak up the sun, enjoy refreshing drinks from the bar, and take in the incredible panorama of modern Dubai from aboard a historic vessel—a contrast possible only here.
Full Immersion: Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, you can book a historical tour or purchase tickets for a performance at the theater. It’s a great way to experience the legend without spending the night onboard.
Your QE2 cruise: Planning in detail
- Best time to visit: The ideal season for visiting Dubai and enjoying QE2 is from October to April. During this period, the weather is comfortable, perfect for strolling on deck and exploring the city.
- Booking: It’s recommended to book your stay directly through the hotel’s official website. This way, you’ll have access to special packages that may include a historical tour or dinner at one of the restaurants. During holidays and school vacations, it’s best to book well in advance.
- Getting there: The hotel is located in Port Rashid, Dubai. A taxi ride from Dubai International Airport (DXB) will take approximately 20–25 minutes.
- Budget and prices: Accommodation costs vary significantly depending on the season, but as a rough guide, you can expect to pay from $150–200 for a standard cabin during the low season, up to $1,000 or more for a royal suite during peak dates. It's important to remember that Dubai imposes a Tourism Dirham Fee for each night of your stay, which is often paid separately upon check-in. The hotel may also request a deposit. We strongly recommend checking current prices for your dates on the hotel's official website.
- Dress code and etiquette: Smart casual attire is generally acceptable throughout most areas of the ship. However, dinner at the flagship restaurant, The Queen's Grill, requires a more formal dress code: elegant clothing, long trousers for men, and closed-toe shoes.
Saving tip: Subscribe to QE2 hotel newsletters. They frequently announce seasonal discounts and package deals that include dinners or theater tickets, which can significantly save your budget.
Drop anchor in the heart of history
Stepping aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2 means more than just checking into a hotel. It means taking a step back into another era, becoming part of a maritime legend, and temporarily swapping your tourist status for the title of passenger aboard one of the greatest liners in history. Here, British heritage elegantly meets Arabian hospitality on decks that have seen the whole world. So, if one day, standing on the Dubai waterfront, you grow tired of looking up at the skyscrapers of the future, just look around. Perhaps your very own personal time machine is already waiting for you in the harbor. Its ramp is lowered, and it’s ready to take aboard another passenger, adding their name to its endless onboard logbook.
Comments