Radisson review

The hip Radisson SAS, Dubai Media City has styled itself as the hotel of choice for trendy media executives in the business hub of what is increasingly recognised as the ‘New Dubai.' As such, it has adopted something of a modish approach to hospitality, drawing on contemporary design and stylish interiors to differentiate itself. On entering either of the hotel's lobby areas pairs of interesting gold shapes, vaguely indicating the human form, are the first thing to catch the weary business traveler's eye.

With something of an emphasis on combining work with pleasure, the hotel is perhaps best known among locals for its popular rooftop terrace, Tamyana. This and award-winning Italian restaurant, Certo attract not only the nearby media crowd in the evenings, but local residents looking to relax after work.

The result is a place to stay with more atmosphere than many others. But be careful to ensure your room is not too close to the action, or you may risk being kept awake all night. The strategic location of Radisson SAS's Media City operation makes the hotel a convenient base for conducting business in a part of Dubai that is home to many leading international companies.

The neighbouring industry clusters of Internet City and Knowledge Village are minutes away. Reaching the Dubai International Financial Centre is less convenient, although still within striking distance 20 minutes away. However, suffering the stress of Sheikh Zayed Road congestion prior to important meetings is perhaps not the ideal way to prepare oneself.

The hotel offers modern accommodation and conference facilities split across two towers. There are 246 rooms including five executive suites.

Rooms are well-proportioned and comfortable, equipped with all the extras you would expect from a hotel of this standard.

All rooms have Wi-Fi high speed internet access.

Be warned though, given the popularity of Tamyana those rooms immediately below are often noisy until the early hours of the morning. And if the music isn't enough to keep you awake, the sound of heavy chairs and tables being dragged across the floor at the end of the night will. This is particularly true at weekends.

The hotel's hip approach to combining business and hospitality is reflected in its conference facilities, with their emphasis on the value of the outdoors for inspiring creative flair. 12 meeting rooms can cater for up to 150 guests. Service is of a high standard, and the Business Class Lounge, with its outdoor terrace, is an ideal space for coffee breaks, offering welcome respite from the confines of the meeting room. The lounge is also available to guests using the Business Class Rooms to relax with drinks and refreshments. The Dusk Terrace offers an outdoor location for product launches and more relaxed corporate functions.