Hotel Riviera

The hotel was good. The front desk staff was efficient, friendly, and helpful. We checked in early in the day and were able to get a room promptly without having to wait for the normal check-in time. The room was large (sitting room + bedroom) as was the bathroom. The hotel's location was good as well - a 5-minute walk to the abra stop on Dubai Creek, a 5-minute walk to the Metro station at Baniyas Square (and the airport is about a 15-minute ride), and there were numerous restaurants in the area. The only negative (and it was not really the hotel's fault) was that it was very noisy because of all the construction in the area including a building directly adjacent to the hotel where construction was going on late at night. If I returned to Dubai, I would stay at the hotel again.

I regret that this hotel did not live up to its enthusiastic reviews by other members. On arrival, it looked a bit dilapidated; and the carpets in the 4th floor foyer where our room was,had a heavy damp smell. On first impression it was very disappointing . Worse,at check in the hotel tried to collect a room upgrade fee of $41.88 AUD which they waived after an argument,- the current price on Expedia was only $88 per night, much less than we paid at time of booking!.The room, once inside was very good and our room attendant a lovely young man who does clever presentations with the bath towels. We were happy with the location, the food in the restuarant and the view to Dubai Creek. HOWEVER on checkout, rushing to an early morning international flight, they stung us for an added 30 dirhams in cash, when settling our account .BUT we paid an add-on of $51.82 taxes at the time of booking! I argued we had paid lots of tax but they insisted on payment. Scam? We left feeling peeved.

Great location. Very welcoming and attentive service from all staff at the Hotel. Close to the airport and walk to the Metro to train around Dubai. Also within walking distance to the Gold and Spice markets. Wonderful breakfast, large room and reasonably priced makes this a great Hotel to stay at - will be our first choice when we return to Dubai.