30 minutes' drive from the airport.

Directly opposite The Palm.

All 451 rooms and suites are sea facing, with a private balcony or terrace. Each is furnished to reflect a timeless grandeur and elegance, with a lavish marble bathroom, rich fabrics, complimentary WiFi, a flat screen television and DVD player. Palace Superior Deluxe Rooms offer a generous amount of space, but for those favouring a separate living area, Executive Suites in all three areas of the resort feature a lounge/dining area, Nespresso machine and iPod docking station. There are plenty of interconnecting options, including adjacent Executive Suites and Deluxe Rooms at The Palace or Arabian Court, which combine to create a two-bedroom space with one main entrance foyer, ideal for families. Book a Palace Gold Club Room or Suite for access to the Gold Club Lounge, where complimentary soft drinks are available throughout the day, afternoon snacks are served and there is a daily happy hour when selected alcoholic drinks are included. For something extra special, Residence & Spa offers a serene setting and spacious rooms, with the option to upgrade to a Junior Suite, recommended for their generous open-plan bedroom/living area and private terrace or balcony. Guests of Residence & Spa also enjoy exclusive access to a private pool, The Library Bar for complimentary afternoon tea and the sumptuous Dining Room restaurant.

Eight restaurants compete for your attention with modern European, Arabian, Asian and international offerings making it a difficult choice. If you do need help deciding, we particularly like the Beach Bar & Grill at The Palace and the subtle Asian flavours of Eauzone at Arabian Court. The ultimate in sophistication and delectation is, however, Celebrities, the resort’s celebrated fine dining restaurant, perfect for a romantic meal for two; after dinner, head to The Jetty Lounge on the beachfront, with its sail-like awnings, chilled out beats and divine cocktails.

• Bed & Breakfast
• Half Board

We recommend making time for a visit or two to the One&Only Spa, with its traditional Oriental Hammam, sauna, steam baths, secluded gardens and pool with sundeck. For the more active, there are four lovely swimming pools, three floodlit tennis courts and watersports including waterskiing, windsurfing, kayaking and sailing. Children 4-11 yrs can also enjoy the complimentary KidsOnly Club, with dedicated staff in two centres at The Palace and Arabian Court. Golf is available nearby and the extraordinary Aquaventure waterpark is just a 15-minute drive away.

All stays between 26 December - 07 January are on Half Board.