Dubai Food Festival 'Foodcation'

Dubai has taken staycations to a new level this Dubai Food Festival with some of the world’s best hotels and restaurants, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to combine the two in a fantastic ‘Foodcation’

The eighth edition of the city-wide Dubai Food Festival, the annual festival of food, has released a list of 27 hotels, offering special deals and experiences, allowing foodies to elevate their Dubai city break to the next level.

Only available during DFF, an impressive  array of hotel options ranging from luxury to chic boutiques, city to desert foodcations are offering unique foodie experiences including private cooking classes, Chef’s Table dinners or the chance to dine at some of the best restaurants in the city.,

 Running until 17 April, we have picked five of the best to get you started:

1. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

Stay: Venture into Dubai’s undulating dunes for a relaxing escape at the Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, a tranquil oasis that mixes Arabesque charm with opulent hospitality. It may feel miles away from the hustle and bustle, but is only a 45-minute drive from the heart of the city. Spend your time relaxing in the pool or marvel at the wildlife that surrounds you at this popular retreat.

Dine: Start your two-night stay with an indulgent traditional meal at Al Hadeerah. Warm up your appetite with a mezze and basket of oven-fresh Arabic bread before taking your pick from eight live cooking stations, featuring succulent fare like underground-cooked ouzi, manakish, shawarma and mixed grill. Leave room to end on a sweet note with a creamy umm ali or crisy kunafa. As you feast, you'll also get a chance to meet the chef, who will let you in on his secret recipe and share the inspiration behind his signature dish.

On day two, ease into an elaborate breakfast spread at Al Forsan, and continue into lunch with a refreshing main and poolside platters of salad, snacks and fruit. For your final breakfast, dine out in the garden under the palm trees, where you’ll be treated to a personalised basket of bakery items, cold cuts and cheeses.

Book now: BAS.Reservations@meydanhotels.com; from AED2,500.

2. The Meydan Hotel

Stay: A landmark in its own right, this popular hotel is a convenient 12 minutes’ drive from the iconic Burj Khalifa and just 15 minutes away from Dubai International Airport. Known for its equestrian pedigree, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the stables or relax in the rooftop temperature-controlled infinity pool, with views out over the verdant Meydan Racecourse.

Dine: Begin your two-night stay with a platter of cheeses while you relax on your own private balcony before indulging in a three-course set menu at Farriers Restaurant, where the chef will talk you through the creation of his favourite dish. On day two, wake up to breakfast in your room, and savour a sumptuous afternoon tea in the Millennium Lounge. Finally, wrap up your getaway with a decadent buffet breakfast spread.

Book now: meydanreservations@meydanhotels.com; from AED1,298.

3. Melia Desert Palm Resort & Hotel

Stay: Switch the concrete city scenes for this lush desert oasis to get away from the everyday hustle and bustle. With a championship polo field at its heart, guests at this resort are surrounded by verdant nature. All the rooms, suites and villas are filled with high-end amenities to make your visit as comfortable as possible.

Dine: Plate up on hearty servings of a complimentary breakfast on both mornings of your two-night stay. After you’ve settled in on your first night, head over for a sumptuous dinner at RARE, which is offering a limited-edition Latin American set menu. On day two, pull out all the stops with an elegant afternoon tea at Epicure, where you can dine indoors or al fresco. Plus, foodies will be able to make the most of a delicious masterclass experience with Chef Gaston Silva, Executive Chef who will teach guests how to rustle up one his favourite dishes in 30 minutes.

Book now: Reservations.dp@melia.com; from AED3,000

4. Armani Hotel Dubai

Stay: What could be more exciting than spending the night in one of the world's most recognisable landmarks? Check into the five-star Armani Hotel and you'll be immersed in a world of designer luxury with interiors and service all baring the hallmarks of the sophisticated Italian label. The property also boasts a range of high-class restaurants and eateries, all with unbeatable views of The Dubai Fountains.

Dine: Enjoy a two-night stay in an Armani Classic Room for two people, and be treated to a gourmet breakfast every morning. For lunch, dine out on a three-course set menu and take advantage of a Chef's Table experience with the skilled Chef Giovanni. When it comes to dinner, take your pick from the diverse dining venues available and get a 10% discount.

Book now: Reservations.armanihotels.com; from AED4,620.

5. Dukes The Palm

Stay: Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel stands on the iconic Palm Jumeirah and boasts stunning vistas over the azure Arabian Gulf and the Dubai Marina cityscape. With an indoor pool, a lazy river, a private beach and an impressive array of restaurants and lounges, guests will be spoilt for choice at this pampering getaway.

Dine: Kick off your day with breakfast at the hotel’s Great British Restaurant and soak up the venue’s refined elegance and English charm. For dinner, choose between another meal at the same eatery or dine out at Khyber, which evokes the spirit of Mumbai. You’ll also receive a complimentary recipe and flavourings which you can use to create a delicious signature dish.

Book now: dukesthepalm.res@royalhideaway.com; from AED999.

Check out the remaining 22 participating properties below:

All dining experiences, events and activations during DFF will follow prevailing safety protocols and social distancing guidelines to ensure a safe experience for all.

For more information and a full update on DFF activities, please visit www.dubaifoodfestival.com and @dubaifoodfest on social media channels.