UST 10 minutes from the airport at the shopping and entertainment complex of Wafi rises the glittering shape of Dubai’s latest uber chic pyramid. A modern interpretation of Egypt’s immortal creations, the Raffles Dubai is a 19-storey paean to Pharaonic splendour. As the evening sun turns the steel and glass to gold, the apex pointed resolutely towards the heavens, it is clear to see that this is a hotel that strives for more than just artistic excellence. As one of the best Dubai business hotels, it is setting new benchmarks for service and comfort.

Unique architecture aside, the 240 pampering suites are among the largest in the city with Signature Rooms starting at a waltz-inspiring 70sq m. Expect balconies, flat-screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, iPod dock, and spa amenities. Step onto a private balcony and admire the wraparound views. Raffles Inc Rooms with Middle Eastern décor and Asian touches offer a personal butler and an Espresso machine plus access to the Raffles Inc Lounge where refreshments flow all day.

Landmark Suites stretch up to 204sq m while the top-of-the-line Royal Suite presents a staggering 650sq m of work and play area with kitchenette and his-and-her en suite bathrooms. The Meeting Concierge will set up your corporate get-together with all modern audio-visual trimmings. The ballroom holds 700 cocktail style, while intimate function spaces like Nile and Karnak entertain groups of 20 for boardroom chats making this versatile venue a top Dubai conference hotels address.

Culinary discoveries are equally varied from a leisurely afternoon tea at the Raffles Salon to choice meat cuts and top wines at the contemporary Fire & Ice. The award-winning Noble House serves contemporary Chinese cuisine in an exclusive setting at the very apex of the Raffles pyramid. With so much shopping and dining within a short stroll of the bed, guests will need time out at the Raffles Amrita Spa where wellness pampering and healing unguents await. Or of an afternoon laze by the shimmering blue pool oasis, set off sharply by the neutral beige stone. This is desert hospitality at its best.