Having already made its name as one of the most hedonistic and playful hotel groups in the Middle East, FIVE Holdings made headlines with the announcement of its third Dubai property. Following the success of FIVE Palm Jumeirah and FIVE Jumeirah Village, we waited with anticipation to see how the brand would evolve with FIVE LUXE JBR.
FIVE LUXE JBR positions itself an immersive destination where indulgence, entertainment, and sophisticated living seamlessly converge. Set along the stunning Arabian Gulf coastline, this newly launched property has swiftly established itself as a key player in Dubai’s luxury hospitality scene. By blending high-end living with the pulse of dynamic entertainment, FIVE LUXE offers an elevated escape that aims to redefine the concept of luxury by giving it a signature FIVE twist.
A vibrant escape
The property is huge – its vast lobby faces out to the pool and beach through several storeys of glass. The building is designed in a U-shape with the vibrant day club Playa Pacha as its shining centrepiece. Our ‘Gorgeous Room’ is on the east wing – a bright and spacious room with a large balcony overlooking the pool. We instantly feel a buzz of energy as we open the sliding doors to hear soft house music from three floors below.
Playa Pacha encapsulates the renowned energy of one of Ibiza’s most adored venues. Pacha Group now belongs to the FIVE family so it serves as more than just a crowd-pulling name, it’s a true extension of the brand. The atmosphere was infectious from the moment we arrived, with music curated by a resident DJ, a busy but not over-crowded pool and several areas to enjoy the vibe from.
A selection of Mediterranean-inspired dishes complemented the ambience, offering fresh bites poolside. From a light and refreshing poke bowl, to the flavourful mezze board, we devoured the selection. Whether basking in the sun with a cocktail in hand or enjoying the serene waterfront views, Playa Pacha delivers a unique fusion of glamour and energy, creating an experience that’s both indulgent and fabulous.
Elevated hospitality at FIVE LUXE JBR
As the sun dips below the horizon, we head back to the room to get ready. Having booked Paradiso for pre-dinner drinks at the time it opens its doors for the evening, we hadn’t expected to experience it in its full form. Voted best bar in the world (in 2022) for its original Barcelona edition, Paradiso is a destination that transforms the art of mixology into an experience. However, it’s a place best suited to night owls looking to make memories in the early hours than us sensible folk. Each cocktail had its own experiential theme and storyline, blending unexpected flavours with that all-important Instagrammable moment. With JBR’s skyline twinkling in the background, the elegance of Paradiso was palpable, setting the perfect tone for the evening ahead.
Dinner at Ronin proved to be the highlight of the evening, offering a sensory dining journey through Japanese-inspired cuisine. The live teppanyaki station provided a theatrical touch, as expert chefs skilfully prepared dishes with precision and flair. The sushi, prepared with meticulous attention to detail, showcased the freshness of the ingredients, while the teppanyaki – particularly the wagyu beef – delivered bold, refined flavours. Ronin strikes a perfect balance between intimacy and spectacle, blending tradition with contemporary innovation in every dish.
Energetic luxury awaits
Later, we retreated to our room, an oasis of calm after a day of indulgence. With floor-to-ceiling windows framing spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf and Ain Dubai, the room was thoughtfully designed with sleek, sophisticated touches. We also had around-the-clock access to a butler, Hassan, who took the term service to a new level with his attentive and helpful nature. From booking reservations to tracking down a missing bag, no task was too big or too small for his much-appreciated assistance.
From the vibrant energy of Playa Pacha to the refined elegance of Ronin and Paradiso, the FIVE LUXE JBR is a curated experience that surprises and delights in every way. Whether you’re looking for a lively, beachside escape or a high-end dining adventure, this property delivers on every level. It’s poised to become a landmark in Dubai’s hospitality landscape, offering an experience that balances glamour with vibrance.
FIVE LUXE JBR has introduced a new level of luxury, where guests can immerse themselves in the excitement of the Dubai’s most dynamic social scene or unwind in the tranquillity of its stunning coastal vistas. The flexibility to choose your experience offers something for all traveller types, that puts FIVE’s newest baby in very good stead to be a successful venture for the group.
