GF Hotel close to the airport
I'll stay one night (17th / 05) before taking my flight to HK in the morning and I'd like to find a (cheap) hotel, close to airport, GF and mostly with WG present in the hotel.
Could you suggest me something?
Thanks
Dar al Sondos turned amber / red on last day
I was on usual quarterly visit to Dubai and stayed in Dar al Sondos for two days. I have been staying here for many years and never had any problem. Most of the staff knows me personally. First two days it was perfect green. No questions no identity.
On my last day, I extended my stay for late checkout as my flight was at 10 pm and went to Panorama for a drink. I ended up chatting with a cute Siberian (Dubai visit reports will be posted in Dubai section). She asked for AED 300 plus taxi for two hours. I agreed happily and back to the hotel. Usually, I go straight to lifts but she, a very law abiding citizen, went to the reception to show them her identity. I went back to get her to the lifts but the damage was done. A security guy came and told us that he needs the original identity. I told them that I have been bringing my 'dates' without any problem but they would not budge. Anyway, I took her back to Panorama and paid her AED 100.
After a couple of beers, I went back to the hotel to pack and leave. I stopped at the reception to ask about the change in policy. I was told the following story. I would be grateful if any senior member or Dubai residents could confirm it.
Dubai authorities have contracted a security company and forcing hotels to take external security from that company. They are not bothered with 'dates' joining guests in the rooms but they are very serious in original identities. According to them the security guy was from that external company and if he intervenes it is not possible for them to let your friend accompany you without original identity. They suggested the best option is to advice your friend to come in decent dressed and accompany you as 'normal' friend. As the security guys usually do not recognize guests, it is very difficult for them to differentiate between normal and 'normal' couples. However, if your friend is dressed like working girl or hesitates then that can cause problem.
Cheap and green hotels – wg recommendation
Citi Max AED 177 and Rolla Residence both are cheap and green and in the golden triangle in Bur Dubai. Please note that wgs have vested interest in cheap and green hotels but still this is a second hand report