Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai (now The St. Regis Downtown)

A complete guide to one of the most elegant hotels in the heart of Business Bay—covering signature rituals, panoramic views, and practical booking tips.

In 2021, a quiet yet significant revolution took place on Dubai's map. The Renaissance Downtown sign was replaced with The St. Regis, signaling one thing: legendary New York heritage had arrived in the city's business district, bringing impeccable butlers, refined rituals, and an entirely new level of luxury. This transition marked the birth of a unique space where Dubai's futurism meets timeless elegance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down every detail that makes the hotel special, helping you decide whether it will become the backdrop for your perfect Dubai story.

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Concept and atmosphere: New York chic meets arabian gold

The evolution of luxury: from renaissance to St. Regis

Opened in 2017 as the Renaissance Downtown Hotel, the property underwent a landmark rebranding in 2021. What did this change of sign mean for you personally as a guest? Everything. The hotel didn't just climb higher in the rankings—it absorbed the DNA of a legendary brand. This means that modern architecture and stunning views have been complemented by world-renowned service standards, refined traditions, and that very atmosphere of aristocratic luxury that makes St. Regis... well, St. Regis.

Design inspired by the Gold Souk

The hotel's interior design is an ode to Dubai's famous Gold Souk. Designers from HBA/Hirsch Bedner Associates have created a space imbued with noble radiance. You're greeted by monumental chandeliers reminiscent of scattered jewels, interiors adorned with shimmering gold and bronze accents, and every art piece evoking the pinnacle of fine jewelry craftsmanship. As a result, the luxury here doesn't shout—it envelops you, creating a meticulously crafted sense of a contemporary palace.

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Signature St. Regis Rituals

What sets St. Regis apart from hundreds of other luxury hotels? Centuries-old traditions that are not merely honored here but transformed into daily rituals for guests. At your service is the signature butler service, always ready to anticipate your every wish. Each evening, you can witness the elegant sabrage ritual—a masterful technique of opening a champagne bottle with a saber. And in the bar, you'll find a local interpretation of the legendary Bloody Mary cocktail, unique to each hotel in the chain.

Rooms and suites: Your personal oasis with panoramic views

The room inventory at The St. Regis Downtown fully meets the brand's standards: spaciousness, impeccable comfort, and understated elegance reign here. Even the basic room categories, starting from 50 square meters, exceed standard expectations, offering guests spacious walk-in closets and luxurious bathrooms.

• Standard rooms (Superior, Deluxe): Essentially, choosing between Superior and Deluxe is about selecting your daily view from the window. Superior rooms overlook the urban panorama of Business Bay—a dynamic and captivating sight in its own right. But if you'd like to wake up to the sight of boats gliding across the Dubai Canal and in the evening admire the skyscrapers reflected in the water, then the view from the Deluxe rooms will transform your stay from merely comfortable into truly unforgettable.
• Suites: For those seeking even more space and exclusivity, the hotel offers 78 suites ranging from 80 square meters upwards. With separate living areas and the finest views, they are perfect for a special occasion, an extended stay, or a journey where comfort knows no compromise.

And naturally, the details match the status: whether it's the scent of premium toiletries in the bathroom, an invigorating espresso from the Nespresso machine, or flawlessly functioning Wi-Fi—here, comfort demands no compromises.

A Gastronomic journey from breakfast to dinner

Breakfast at St. Regis: format, selection, and atmosphere

Breakfast at The St. Regis Downtown isn't a buffet; it's a carefully orchestrated morning performance. The emphasis here isn't on overwhelming quantity but on the impeccable quality of each element: from artisanal cheeses and freshly squeezed juices to perfectly prepared eggs Benedict made to order. The atmosphere is equally fitting: a serene silence broken only by the clinking of utensils and soft conversations, snow-white tablecloths, and impeccable service. It's a place where the day begins not with haste, but with enjoyment.

A collection of restaurants and bars

The hotel's gastronomic concept, led by Chef Fabio Sansone, focuses on exquisite à la carte dining experiences.

• BASTA! — a lively and charismatic Italian trattoria with soul. The aromas from the wood-fired oven, homemade pasta, and the atmosphere of a big family dinner make this place perfect for an informal get-together with friends or a meal where you can just be yourself.
• TABŪ is more than just a Japanese restaurant. It’s a theater of taste on the 23rd floor, featuring avant-garde presentations and panoramic city views. Recognized by the Gault&Millau guide, it’s designed for special evenings when you don’t just want to eat, but also to create vivid impressions.
• The St. Regis Bar — the quintessence of a classic bar at its finest. Heavy armchairs, polished wood, impeccable signature cocktails, and a separate cigar room. The ideal spot for business meetings or an aperitif before dinner, accompanied by the evening ritual of sabrage.
• Ginori Terrace — an elegant terrace overlooking the canal, seemingly made for leisurely conversations. During the day, it serves the famous afternoon tea with a tiered stand of snacks, and in the evening, light dishes and cocktails. An oasis of tranquility in the heart of the metropolis.

For guests who prefer dining outside the hotel, the best choice would be the Bed & Breakfast (BB) rate. This offers maximum freedom to explore Dubai’s rich gastronomic scene.

Relaxation and recreation: Infinity pool and signature spa

Perhaps the hotel’s main gem is the outdoor infinity pool, where the water surface merges seamlessly with the panoramic view of the Dubai Canal. During the day, it’s your personal oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling metropolis, where you can watch yachts glide by with a cocktail in hand. In the evening, it transforms into a mesmerizing mirror reflecting myriad lights from the skyscrapers. The pool is heated, making this pleasure available year-round.

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Forget about the urban hustle as soon as you step through the doors of The St. Regis Spa. This is a space of absolute serenity, offering a wide range of treatments featuring premium cosmetics from Sothys Paris and Aromatherapy Associates. Guests have access to a sauna, steam room, and treatment rooms, including a luxurious suite for couples. It’s important to understand that the hotel provides infrastructure for urban relaxation rather than beachside leisure, fully aligning with its concept.

The St. Regis Downtown among competitors: How to make the right choice

The Downtown and Business Bay areas are filled with luxury hotels, each with its own unique character. The St. Regis Downtown occupies a distinctive niche within this environment.

• If you want a direct view of the fountains and Burj Khalifa: Consider Address Downtown. Its style is ultra-modern and glossy, and its location is perfect for those who want to be at the heart of tourist activity.
• If you dream of an "Arabian fairy tale" atmosphere: Your choice is Palace Downtown. Its traditional architecture, lush gardens, and authentic Middle Eastern ambiance create a unique experience.
• If impeccable service, classic elegance, and prestige are your top priorities: The St. Regis Downtown will be the perfect choice. It appeals to those for whom a personalized approach and the legacy of a legendary brand matter more than a direct view of the fountains.

Practical Guide to Booking and Staying

Location and transportation

The hotel is located in the prestigious and secure Business Bay district, on the Dubai Water Canal waterfront, ideal for evening strolls. Its central location ensures quick access to key city landmarks:

• DXB Airport: 20–30 minutes by taxi.
• Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall: 5–10 minutes by taxi.

Budget and hidden costs

The cost of a standard room ranges from 350-400 USD in the low season to 550-650 USD and higher during peak season. Upon check-in, the hotel requires an insurance deposit.

How to save and get more: Marriott Bonvoy rewards

The hotel's affiliation with Marriott International provides access to the benefits of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. For members at higher tiers, this is a real opportunity to get more value from your stay: complimentary breakfasts, welcome gifts, the possibility of room upgrades (including suites, subject to availability), and late check-out make your stay even more comfortable.

Who is The St. Regis Downtown designed for?

The St. Regis Downtown, Dubai, is a flawless combination of an exclusive urban hub and a luxurious oasis for those who appreciate the highest level of service, timeless elegance, and a prestigious location.

• You'll enjoy it here if: you're a discerning traveler, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a businessperson for whom status, comfort, and a central location are more important than direct beach access.
• You should consider other options if: you're traveling with young children and looking for a resort with an extensive entertainment program, planning a classic beach vacation, or working with a limited budget.

Ultimately, when you choose The St. Regis Downtown, you're not just booking square footage with a beautiful view—you're investing in a centuries-old philosophy of hospitality and receiving a promise of impeccable service that here isn't just a marketing gimmick, but rather the standard of operation. It’s the anticipation of that very moment when, at sunset, standing by the infinity pool with a glass in hand, you gaze at the lights of the Dubai Canal and realize you’re right at the heart of modern luxury, where every detail has been crafted just for you.