We dissect this two-star hotel in Old Dubai. Everything about the dated rooms, the lifesaving pool, and the authentic Deira atmosphere.
Dubai is firmly associated in many people's minds with dizzying skyscrapers, luxurious shopping malls, and seven-star hotels. However, behind the glossy facade lies another city—authentic, bustling, and full of life, especially in its historic heart, the Deira district. It's here that budget-conscious travelers find affordable options to explore the emirate. The main challenge for the thrifty tourist in Dubai is finding a reasonably priced hotel where, after a long walk through scorching streets, you can dive into a refreshing pool. And that's where the San Marco Hotel (OYO 165) comes into play. We'll take it apart piece by piece so you can decide for yourself: is this a hidden treasure of the Old City, or a compromise you're not ready to make?
Location: In the Heart of Real, Non-Touristy Deira
Forget the glossy postcards. San Marco is located in the Al Baraha neighborhood—this is the real, non-touristy Deira. Imagine the buzz of voices in dozens of languages, the aroma of spices and grilled shawarma from street-side cafes, porters bustling back and forth with carts, and tiny shop windows overflowing with everything under the sun. There’s no glitz of Dubai Marina here, but instead, there’s the thick, spicy air of an old trading port, where life truly thrives—not just for tourists.
All of Dubai for a Couple of Dirhams: Metro and Buses Right Around the Corner
One of the main advantages of the location is that it’s the key to budget-friendly travel around the city. Just a 10–12 minute walk away is the Gold Souq metro station (Green Line), from which you can reach various parts of the city. Nearby is also the major Gold Souq Bus Station, which will be a real find for budget-conscious travelers. Key routes depart from here:
- C09: Directly to the popular Mamzar Beach Park.
- 8: Takes you to the modern Dubai Marina district.
- C28: Goes to the giant Dubai Mall shopping center.
What’s Nearby, and What’s Far Away?
Within walking distance from the hotel are the main treasures of the Old City: the famous Gold Souk, the Spice Market, and the picturesque Dubai Creek waterfront, where traditional abra boats ply back and forth. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is also very close—just a 15–25 minute taxi ride. However, it's worth being realistic: modern attractions are located at a considerable distance. A taxi ride to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall will take 20–35 minutes, while reaching the Dubai Marina area could take as long as 35–50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
The Atmosphere of the Old City: Be prepared for noise and hustle! Deira is a vibrant shopping district open 24/7. If you're looking for peace and quiet or traveling with young children, this location might seem too lively.
A Look Inside the Room: A Realistic Take on "Two-Star" Comfort
The hotel's room stock consists of Standard and Triple rooms. Their size is rather modest—ranging from 18 to 25 square meters, which is typical for the budget segment. Inside, you'll find a spartan yet perfectly functional set of amenities. Your best friend in Dubai's climate—the air conditioner—is, of course, available here. For staying connected, there's free Wi-Fi (be prepared for its quirks; this isn't a business hotel). You can stash valuables in a small safe, and chill fruits bought at the market in a mini-fridge. In the morning, an electric kettle will come in handy, and in the evening, there's a bathroom with a shower. Everything you need, nothing extra.
It's important to understand that San Marco Hotel is not a new building. It opened in the early 2000s and, apparently, hasn’t undergone a comprehensive renovation since then. Be prepared for furniture and fixtures that have seen better days: scuffs on the countertop, slightly scratched cabinet doors, and a faucet that has seen its prime—these are all part of the package.
Important Living Nuances: Guests often point out poor soundproofing, worn-out furniture, and unstable Wi-Fi. If perfect comfort and fresh renovations are important to you, it’s worth being honest with yourself and considering other options.
The Main Plus: A Rooftop Pool as a Lifesaver in the Heat
Now let’s talk about the hotel’s key highlight, which sets it favorably apart from many competitors in the same price range.
An Oasis in the Heart of Deira
And now, the reason San Marco made it into this review at all—the rooftop pool. Yes, it’s small. And yes, instead of palm trees, you’ll see antennas and rooftops of old Deira all around. But after spending an entire day in Dubai’s heat, plunging into the cool water and looking down on the bustling streets below, hearing their muffled hum—that’s exactly what makes it such a lifesaving oasis. Here, you can catch the morning sun as the city awakens, or relax at sunset while watching the lights come on in the windows across the way. The pool is open to guests from 07:00 to 19:00.
Why is a pool important?: For a 2-star hotel in Deira, having its own rooftop pool is quite rare and a huge advantage. It’s a great opportunity to unwind after a hot day without leaving the hotel or spending extra money.
What else does the hotel offer?
In addition to the pool, guests have access to a compact fitness room with basic equipment and a sauna. These are nice perks, though you shouldn’t expect facilities on par with a premium fitness club.
Dining: Why choosing breakfast only is the smartest option?
The hotel has one restaurant—Milano Restaurant, serving international cuisine. Guests can choose from different meal plans: bed and breakfast (BB), half board (HB), and full board (FB). Our practical tip: confidently opt for the "breakfast only" option. Deira is a gastronomic paradise for budget-conscious foodies. Just around the corner, you’ll find dozens of authentic and affordable cafes offering Indian, Pakistani, Arabic, and Filipino cuisine, where you can enjoy lunch or dinner much more diversely and cost-effectively than at the hotel.
San Marco Hotel or another hotel in Deira?
Deira has plenty of budget hotels, and making a choice can be tricky. To help you out, we’ve compared San Marco with two other popular options in the area.
A quick guide to choosing
So who should you prefer? It all depends on your priorities. San Marco is your choice if you're playing big on getting a lower price. You're willing to overlook the worn-out furniture for the sake of a lifesaving pool and a minimal accommodation bill. However, if predictability and standardized cleanliness are important to you, and proximity to a large mall matters more than authenticity, then Ibis Deira City Centre will be a more reliable option. And if you want to stay in the heart of the Old Town but seek a bit more comfort and are ready to pay a little extra for it, take a closer look at the three-star Fortune Pearl Hotel—it's closer to the Gold Souk and feels more upscale.
Planning Your Trip: Everything You Need to Know Before Booking
To ensure your stay goes smoothly, here are some important practical details.
Prices, Taxes, and Deposits
The cost of a standard room during the low season starts at around 297 dirhams per night. Upon arrival, be prepared to pay a refundable deposit of 50–100 dirhams.
Don't Forget the Tourist Tax!: In Dubai, all tourists must additionally pay the 'Tourism Dirham' fee. For 2-star hotels, it amounts to 10 dirhams (about $3) per room per night. This fee is not included in the booking prices on reservation websites and is collected directly at the hotel.
Important: All amounts listed are current as of the time of writing and are subject to change. Be sure to check the exact terms and final cost on the booking platform before making payment.
Staff and Service
According to numerous reviews, the staff is one of the hotel's strong points. Guests frequently highlight the friendliness and responsiveness of the employees. A pleasant bonus for many tourists will be the availability of Russian-speaking staff at the reception desk.
When is the Best Time to Book?
Hotel prices in Dubai heavily depend on the season. The high season with the most comfortable weather lasts from October to April, while the hot summer is considered the low season. To get the best price, especially during peak dates, try to book your stay well in advance.
What You Should NOT Expect from a 2-Star Hotel?
To avoid disappointment, it's important to set your expectations correctly. San Marco Hotel is a functional 2-star hotel. You won't find a doorman in livery, round-the-clock room service, luxurious interiors, or designer furniture here. Its main purpose is to provide you with a safe and functional place to sleep and relax between your outings around the city, offering basic comfort at one of the lowest prices in Dubai.
Verdict: Who is San Marco Hotel Perfect For?
Let's summarize and determine who this hotel will be a great choice for.
Briefly: Pros and Cons
- Pros: Low price, rooftop pool, excellent transport links (metro/buses), friendly staff.
- Cons: Old rooms requiring repairs; poor soundproofing; unstable Wi-Fi; distance from newer areas.
Our Advice
- Book with confidence if you are: a solo traveler or a couple on a very tight budget; want to explore the Old Town; and are looking for a hotel purely for overnight stays, with a pool to cool off.
- Look elsewhere if you are: traveling with family and children; value comfort, quiet, and fresh renovations; or plan to spend a lot of time at the hotel or on Jumeirah and Marina beaches.
So what exactly is San Marco? It’s an honest "two-star" that doesn’t pretend to be a "three-star." It’s your chance to live in the heart of authentic Deira while still enjoying the main pleasure of a hot climate—the swimming pool. If you’re willing to trade fresh renovations for an extra hundred dirhams in your pocket for shawarma and souvenirs, this hotel won’t disappoint you.
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