Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) Hotel in Dubai: So Bad, It’s Good?
Traveling with the family always brings a blend of excitement and unpredictability. Our recent stay at the Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) Hotel in Dubai was no exception. As a historic vessel and a unique hotel experience, we were eager to see what it had to offer. However, our stay revealed a stark contrast between expectations and reality.
Table of Contents
Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel History
The Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel, once a majestic ocean liner, has a fascinating history that goes back to 1967 when it was operated by the prestigious British company, Cunard.
Over the years, it welcomed celebrities, royalty, and travelers from around the world, earning a reputation as one of the greatest ocean liners ever created. However, as travel preferences evolved, the demands of modern travel led Cunard to retire the QE2 from active service in 2008.
The transformation of the QE2 into a floating hotel in Dubai was an ambitious project, intended to preserve its legacy and offer a unique hospitality experience.
Key Moments in the Transformation
Several significant milestones marked this transformation process:
- Initial Acquisition (2008): Istithmar World Dubai purchased the QE2 for $100 million.
- Relocation to Dubai (2008): The ship made its final voyage to Mina Rashid.
- Extensive Refurbishments: A meticulous renovation process ensued to convert cabins into luxury hotel rooms while retaining original features such as wood paneling and porthole windows.
- Grand Opening (2018): After nearly a decade of work and anticipation, the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel officially opened its doors to guests.
Throughout this journey, it was essential to strike a balance between preserving the ship’s historical significance and providing modern comforts. Some areas were kept intact to showcase their original charm and offer guests a glimpse into maritime history, while other spaces were updated to meet the expectations of luxury accommodation today.
The Rooms: Reality Versus Expectation
The website’s pictures painted a picture of elegance and comfort (see the pictures for yourself here), but reality struck hard once we entered our room. It was evident that the grandeur of the QE2 hadn’t entirely transitioned into the accommodations. The rooms felt worn out, with outdated decor and visible signs of wear and tear. The carpets were frayed, the furniture had seen better days, and the overall ambiance was far from the luxurious escape we had anticipated.
The Silver Lining: Breakfast
Despite our disappointment with the room, breakfast offered a redeeming moment. The spread was decently varied, reasonably priced (we paid less than $15 per person when we added the breakfast during the booking), and offered something for everyone in the family. From freshly baked pastries to a selection of hot dishes, it was a pleasant start to our day.
Exploring the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel: An Unexpected Adventure
One of the highlights of our stay was exploring the QE2 at night. As night falls, the ship becomes quiet and empty. The busy atmosphere during the day is in stark contrast to the eerie silence at night. Walking through the dimly lit corridors and peering into various nooks and crannies felt like an adventure.
We decided to take advantage of the calm and wander through the various decks and hallways, discovering hidden corners and historical exhibits along the way. With no staff around and only the occasional fellow explorer, it felt like we had the entire ship to ourselves, adding a sense of adventure and mystery.
Exploring the QE2 at night also allowed us to appreciate the ship’s architecture and design in a more intimate setting. Without the daytime activity, we could take in the details and craftsmanship that might have been overlooked during busier hours.
While our nighttime adventure was a highlight, it also underscored the need for more consistent maintenance and updates. The quiet and emptiness highlighted the worn-out aspects of the ship even more, creating a bittersweet experience.
Should You Set Sail for the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel?
Staying at the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel in Dubai is an experience like no other, blending a rich maritime history with the unique twist of a floating hotel. This destination is perfect for:
- History Enthusiasts: If you have a penchant for maritime history and enjoy imagining the golden days of ocean travel, the QE2 offers an immersive experience. Walking its decks feels like stepping back in time.
- Adventure Seekers: Despite some areas showing their age, there’s a certain charm to exploring this iconic vessel, especially during quieter hours when the ship takes on an almost mystical quality.
- Novelty Lovers: For those who relish staying somewhere out of the ordinary, the idea of sleeping aboard a former ocean liner docked in the heart of Dubai is undeniably appealing. The novelty factor alone makes it worth considering for a short stay.
However, keep in mind:
- Luxury Travelers: This may not be your top pick if you’re looking for ultra-modern luxury accommodations. While there are upscale amenities, some aspects might feel more vintage than luxurious.
- Long-Term Guests: A one-night stay strikes the right balance between adventure and comfort without overstaying your curiosity about the ship’s quirks.
Final Thoughts
While the QE2 Hotel offers a unique glimpse into the past, the overall experience fell short of our expectations. The rooms, in particular, need significant updates to match the allure presented on the website. Breakfast was a pleasant surprise, and our nocturnal explorations added a touch of adventure to our stay.
Would we stay here again? Probably not. But for history buffs and those intrigued by the idea of spending a night on a historic vessel, the QE2 offers a one-of-a-kind experience—just be prepared for a bit of reality to temper the grandeur.
