Nestled in the heart of Dubai Downtown, the Kempinski Boulevard is a property that has undergone a transformation, having been formerly known as The Address Boulevard. With its iconic location and reputation as a luxury hotel, I was eager to experience what the Kempinski brand has brought to this reimagined space.
Arrival and Check-In Experience
The convenience of valet parking was a plus, especially in bustling Downtown Dubai, where finding a spot can be challenging. However, my enthusiasm waned during the check-in process. Despite being the only guest at the reception, the procedure stretched to an unreasonably long 30 minutes. For a hotel aiming to deliver a high-end experience, this delay was disappointing and a less-than-ideal start to my stay.
The Room: Spacious Comfort with a View
I stayed in a room that offered stunning views of the Burj Khalifa—a definite highlight. The room itself was spacious, with clean and well-maintained interiors that exuded modern elegance. However, the balcony, while offering excellent views, was on the smaller side and didn’t quite match the grandeur one might expect in this setting.
The bathroom was thoughtfully designed, featuring both a walk-in shower and a bathtub. This flexibility was appreciated, but the provided toiletries were underwhelming for a hotel of this calibre. There was no liquid hand soap, only bar soap, and essential amenities like a dental kit were missing. These small but significant details detracted from the overall experience and raised questions about the attention to detail in guest services.
Overall Impressions
While the rooms were undeniably comfortable and the location unbeatable, the experience fell short of the standards set by other luxury hotels in Dubai. The Kempinski Boulevard does many things right, but small lapses in service and amenities leave room for improvement.
If you’re looking for a centrally located hotel with excellent views and spacious rooms, this could be a good choice. However, if you’re accustomed to the meticulous standards of Dubai’s finest hotels, you might find yourself slightly underwhelmed.