Burj Al Arab to offer guided tours to non-guests for the first time

If you’ve ever wished you could take a look around one of Dubai’s most luxurious hotels, without committing to an overnight stay, Jumeirah Group has got you covered.

New guided tours of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah will offer non-guests the opportunity to explore the landmark property for the first time.

The lobby of the Burj Al Arab. Photo: Jumeirah Group

Guided by a butler, the 90-minute tours will take participants on an exclusive journey through the hotel, to discover what makes it such an architectural marvel.

“Dubai is a world-class destination, where visitors can now discover the ambition, vision and sheer audacity behind one of its most iconic landmarks and the realisation of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai’s extraordinary vision,” said Jose Silva, chief executive of Jumeirah Group.

“Inside Burj Al Arab, a groundbreaking guided tour befitting of the city’s innovative spirit, will showcase both the incredible calibre of Jumeirah Group’s luxury hospitality and our confidence in creating extraordinary guest experiences. As the world rediscovers its love of travel, we invite visitors to step inside the ‘original home of luxury’– a unique opportunity to explore Arabian opulence at its finest.”

Tours include a visit to the hotel atrium and Royal Suite, as well as a stop in the newly curated Experience Suite, where guests can partake in interactive digital experiences that trace the history of the hotel, back to the original architectural designs.

The tour ends with a visit to the new Uma lounge, where guests can enjoy views of the Arabian Gulf. Visitors can also top off their experience by reserving a table in one of the hotel’s award-winning restaurants.

Burj Al Arab has yet to reveal the price of its guided tour, but is encouraging people who are interested to register at www.insideburjalarab.com.

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Tips on buying property during a pandemic

Islay Robinson, group chief executive of mortgage broker Enness Global, offers his advice on buying property in today's market.

While many have been quick to call a market collapse, this simply isn’t what we’re seeing on the ground. Many pockets of the global property market, including London and the UAE, continue to be compelling locations to invest in real estate.

While an air of uncertainty remains, the outlook is far better than anyone could have predicted. However, it is still important to consider the wider threat posed by Covid-19 when buying bricks and mortar.

Anything with outside space, gardens and private entrances is a must and these property features will see your investment keep its value should the pandemic drag on. In contrast, flats and particularly high-rise developments are falling in popularity and investors should avoid them at all costs.

Attractive investment property can be hard to find amid strong demand and heightened buyer activity. When you do find one, be prepared to move hard and fast to secure it. If you have your finances in order, this shouldn’t be an issue.

Lenders continue to lend and rates remain at an all-time low, so utilise this. There is no point in tying up cash when you can keep this liquidity to maximise other opportunities.

Keep your head and, as always when investing, take the long-term view. External factors such as coronavirus or Brexit will present challenges in the short-term, but the long-term outlook remains strong.

Finally, keep an eye on your currency. Whenever currency fluctuations favour foreign buyers, you can bet that demand will increase, as they act to secure what is essentially a discounted property.