Boutique is beautiful at Dubai's Desert Palm

Dubai's hotel reputation is based on unrivalled luxury and a glittering array of some of the world's most exclusive resorts. However, if you are looking for a bespoke boutique experience then there are also an increasing number of hotels offering a chic understated stay in the emirate.

Per Aquum's Desert Palm, Dubai represents the epitome of stylish luxury. Located within the emirate's dramatic desert landscape, in a lush polo estate, the Desert Palm hotel boasts elegant local architecture and design. The boutique property features twenty-four 'naturally modern' guest suites and pool villas, each showcasing its own distinctive style, embodying the simplicity and sophistication of the estate's graceful surrounds. Also offered is the option of retreating to the Lime Spa, a sanctuary which fuses holistic wellness with modern spa therapies.

A new addition has also been announced by internationally renowned Paris-based Lebanese designer, Elie Saab, and developer Tatweer. They are set to launch a £82million project to build a boutique hotel located at the Tiger Woods golf course at Dubailand. The 360,000-sq ft boutique hotel, designed by Saab, will bear his name and reflect his exclusive and elegant style, creating a 'dreamlike ambience'. The hotel, which is scheduled for completion in September 2009, will overlook the world's first golf course designed by Tiger Woods and features 89 suites and 14 bungalows in different sizes to cater for the top-tier clientele.

Ian Scott, director of the UK and Ireland Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, comments on the emirate's growing boutique hotel trend: 'Dubai is often recognised as the land of world-class large scale developments; however the emirate also boasts some of the finest boutique hotels in the most elegant surroundings. Luxury and superior quality are at the heart of Dubai's offering, and visitors to the emirate can expect the best with an excellent standard of service that is internationally renowned. So, whether its 'boutique chic' or 'larger than life luxury' that you're after, Dubai provides travellers with an infinite choice and an experience beyond compare'.

Some of Dubai's other boutique hotels include Fusion, a beautiful hotel villa set back in private grounds in the exclusive area of Jumeirah. At Fusion less is most definitely more - hidden off the beaten track, this property possesses an air of bohemian luxury in intimate surroundings. Fusion has also launched its new Boudoir Apartments, five spectacular designer apartments in Dubai's extremely sought after Jumeirah Beach Residence. These 1-2 bedroom apartments are surrounded by lush tropical gardens and showcase Fusion's distinctive style.

Another boutique retreat is the Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa, tucked into a pristine nature reserve and set in 225 square km of dramatic desert. With 42 rooms built in the style of Bedouin tents, Al Maha also features the opulent Timeless Spa and fantastic dining outlets. This award-winning hotel has been recognised for its world-class suites, facilities and standard of service, as well as its contribution to desert conservation.

Some of Dubai's major hotels and hotel groups have also introduced a boutique offering. The Residence, from One&Only, has 50 charming rooms in a modern Arabian style, providing guests with the very highest standards of luxury. Attached to a Givenchy Spa, The Residence also features understated privacy and exclusivity.

Alternatively, Madinat Jumeirah offers its guests Dar Al Masyaf, 29 deluxe summer houses comprising 283 rooms and suites with private balconies or terrace areas, exclusive pools, a private beach and private butler service.

Maintaining its position as a leading world-class destination, Dubai continues to expand its portfolio of developments further fuelling the demand of a growing and diverse luxury market. And with travellers now seeking a unique boutique hotel experience, Dubai continues to set the standard as visitors truly can expect the best.