We’re sharing everything about the former Lords Hotel: who it’s suited for, and who might want to look elsewhere. Location, rooms, prices, and hidden nuances. Dubai is often associated with the glitz of skyscrapers, luxurious shopping malls, and futuristic islands. But there’s another Dubai—a vibrant, bustling city filled with the scents of spices and cardamom. This is Deira, the historic heart and true soul of the city, where lively markets still buzz with trade, and traditional abra boats glide gracefully across Dubai Creek. Right in the center of this authentic atmosphere lies the Lavender Hotel Deira (formerly Lords Hotel). It’s not a glossy resort straight out of a magazine cover; rather, it’s a cozy and strategically important “port” for those eager to explore this more unpretentious side of the emirate. This 3-star hotel is the choice of pragmatists who value substance over style. We won’t paint you a polished picture. Our goal is to provide an honest and balanced review, so after reading it, you’ll clearly understand whether the Lavender Hotel Deira will become your reliable ally in discovering the real, non-touristy Dubai.
What is Lavender Hotel Deira: Concept and Atmosphere
The "Dry Hotel" concept: peace and quiet as the main advantage
Lavender Hotel Deira is part of the small regional chain Lavender Hotels, which often means a more personalized approach and a focus on family values, unlike the giant international chains. However, its main distinguishing feature is its status as a non-alcoholic hotel ("dry hotel"). Yet, it is precisely this limitation that forms the hotel's key advantage. The absence of noisy bars creates an atmosphere of calm and tranquility, making it an ideal choice for families with children or travelers who want to fully relax after a busy day in the metropolis.
History and renovation: classic or "Wear and Tear"?
The hotel is no newcomer to Dubai's hospitality scene. It first opened its doors back in 1996, and its last major renovation took place in 2014. In practice, this means you shouldn't expect ultra-modern interiors—instead, a time-tested classic style prevails here. But what's truly important, and what numerous reviews confirm, is that cleanliness and order at the hotel are maintained at the highest level.
Location – the Hotel's Main Strength
If you had to name just one, primary reason to choose this hotel, it would be its location. Lavender Hotel Deira is the perfect base for city explorers who prefer public transport and walking to expensive taxis.
Just a stone's throw from the pulse of Old Dubai
The hotel is located right in the heart of Deira. From here, you're just a short stroll away from the famous gold and spice markets, the Dubai Creek waterfront, and the large Al Ghurair Centre shopping mall. The area is completely safe and ideal for walking. However, it's worth noting that, like any bustling city center, it can be noisy, especially if your room windows face the street.
Proximity to the metro: how the hotel saves you money and time
Now, let's talk about this hotel's real superpower, which saves you both money and nerves. Within a leisurely 7–10 minute walk, you'll find two key metro stations:
- Al Rigga (Red Line)
- Union Station (a transfer hub for the Red and Green Lines)
This gives you incredible freedom of movement and allows you to save significantly on transportation. Here are some approximate travel times:
- Dubai Airport (DXB): 10–20 minutes by taxi.
- Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall: 15–30 minutes by taxi or metro.
- Dubai Marina / JBR: 30–45 minutes by taxi or metro.
What Awaits You in the Rooms?
The hotel's room stock offers functionality and comfort without unnecessary frills, perfectly matching its 3-star status and pricing policy.
Room categories and standard amenities
The hotel offers 117 rooms of several types:
- Standard Room (29 sq.m): An excellent choice for couples or solo travelers.
- Deluxe Room (42 sq.m): A more spacious room with an additional relaxation area.
- Suite (72 sq.m): The best option for families, featuring a separate living area.
Regardless of the category, each room includes a reliable basic set for a comfortable stay:
- Climate and Connectivity: Individual air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.
- Appliances: LCD TV and an electronic safe that can accommodate a laptop.
- Comfort Essentials: Tea and coffee-making kit, as well as a non-alcoholic minibar.
The main trade-off: impeccable cleanliness vs. signs of time
An analysis of hundreds of guest reviews reveals one key detail. The vast majority of guests praise the high level of cleanliness and the quality of daily housekeeping—this is a strong point of the hotel. At the same time, be prepared for the fact that furniture, plumbing, and textiles may show signs of natural wear and tear. This is an honest compromise and the price to pay for affordability and the fact that it has been over ten years since the last renovation.
Food, Relaxation, and Other On-Site Services
Restaurants: breakfast at the hotel, dinner in the city
Main meals are served at the Gondole Restaurant, which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner either as a buffet or à la carte. Additionally, the Lavender Café operates around the clock in the lobby.
Practical tip: Feel free to book the hotel with breakfast only (BB system). For lunch and dinner, dive into Deira's gastronomic ocean! Just around the corner, you'll find dozens of spots where locals eat—ranging from tiny Pakistani eateries with the city's best flatbreads to solid Iranian and Lebanese restaurants. Drop by the food court at the nearby Al Ghurair Centre or simply stroll along the bustling Al Rigga Road. It'll be cheaper, significantly tastier, and let you experience the true flavor of Dubai.
Rooftop pool, spa, and fitness center
One of the hotel's delightful features is its rooftop pool. It's a great way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing while enjoying views of Deira's urban landscapes. There's also a lounge area with sunbeds next to the pool. For those who want to stay in shape, there's a small fitness center, and for complete relaxation, you can visit the spa with a sauna and massage rooms.
Attention: this is not a beachfront hotel!: It's important to understand: Lavender Hotel Deira is a city hotel. It doesn't have its own beach or shuttle service to the sea. If your main goal is a beach vacation, you might want to consider options in other areas, such as JBR or Dubai Marina.
Verdict: Who is Lavender Hotel Deira perfect for?
The hotel will be your best choice if you:
- Are a budget-conscious traveler who values the convenience of metro transportation.
- Want to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Old Dubai, its markets, and history.
- Have come to Dubai on business and need to be located in the Deira area.
- Are a family looking for a quiet, alcohol-free hotel to relax after city walks.
You might want to look for another option if you:
- Dream of a "staycation" beach experience right at the hotel.
- Seek luxury, novelty, and premium service.
- Are traveling with children and need a kids' club and entertainment.
- Plan to spend evenings at the hotel bar.
Planning Your Trip: Everything You Need to Know Before Booking
Budget and hidden fees
When calculating the cost of your stay, it's important to consider more than just the room rate. As everywhere in Dubai, taxes (VAT and municipal fees) will be added to the final amount. Additionally, a refundable deposit of 100 dirhams and a mandatory tourist tax are charged upon check-in.
Don't forget about the tourist tax!: When planning your budget, keep in mind that in addition to the room rate, Dubai charges a 'Tourism Dirham' tourist tax. For 3-star hotels, it amounts to 10 dirhams (about $3) per night of accommodation in the room.
Best time to visit and booking tips
The hotel market in Dubai is characterized by high demand, with an average annual occupancy rate of around 77%. To get the best price, especially during peak season, it's advisable to book your stay in advance.
Useful nearby facilities: supermarkets, pharmacies, and top Affordable eateries
One of the conveniences of Deira is having everything at your fingertips. Just a 3-5 minute walk from the hotel, you'll find:
- Supermarket: Several branches, including `Carrefour City` or `West Zone Fresh Supermarket`, perfect for buying water, fruit, or local sweets.
- Pharmacy: Chain pharmacies like `Life Pharmacy` stay open late and are always nearby.
- Currency Exchange: Don't exchange money at the hotel. Head over to any major exchange office, such as `Al Ansari Exchange`; the rates there will always be more favorable.
- The Ultimate Shawarma: Locals recommend stopping by one of the dozens of Lebanese or Syrian eateries on Al Rigga Road, famous for their shawarma priced at just 7-10 dirhams.
Is It Worth It?
Lavender Hotel Deira is an honest, reliable, and functional 3-star hotel. Its main value lies not in luxurious interiors, but in its unique location, which provides access to a different, authentic Dubai. It offers exactly what you pay for: a clean room, a comfortable bed, and fantastic transport accessibility. This hotel is a smart choice for pragmatic travelers for whom the city’s atmosphere matters more than the novelty of the room’s furnishings.
Lavender Hotel Deira isn’t a ticket to Dubai’s luxurious world—it’s a key to the door of an authentic, unglamorous city. And for the right kind of traveler, such a key will prove far more valuable than gold from the local market.
Comments