While the Copthorne is not a five-pearl property, the building’s glass facade and interior lobby suggest otherwise. Inside, a large, open lobby -- similar to those found in luxury hotels -- welcomes guests. The overall ambience is upscale, but the space is missing the opulent decor touches common to luxury hotels in the emirate. The hotel’s guests are mainly those who are budget conscious or those in town for only a short period, and want to be near the airport, and the hotel tends to attract more business travelers than tourists.

The hotel is located in an area with plenty of good but inexpensive restaurants, right by Dubai Creek, where travelers can watch boats load and unload goods. The hotel is a convenient 10-minute walk from City Centre Deira, a shopping mall with one of the world’s largest gold and diamond retail markets. The Red Line of the Dubai Metro stops just outside the mall and travels across the waters and into the financial district and beaches of New Dubai, a 35-minute (or minimum seven stop) commute. Dubai Museum, where travelers can learn about the area’s history, is four stops away at BurJuman Metro Station. The beach scene is approximately 20-minutes away, and is best reached via the hotel’s free private shuttle. The airport is a 10-minute drive away.

The hotel has 210 rooms spread over 13 floors. All rooms have free tea- and coffee-making facilities, hairdryers, flat-screen TVs, and Wi-Fi (for a fee). Decor is contemporary, with hardwood floors, beige walls, and brown-and-tan rugs with upholstery to match. Bathrooms are spacious and have walk-in showers; some rooms also have separate tubs. Rooms on higher floors have pleasant views of Dubai Creek and Superior Rooms have large private balconies with seating. Deluxe Rooms have kitchenettes and a large separate living area with contemporary sofas. The Executive Suite has a separate living area, two bedrooms, and a TV in each room. The Penthouse is the largest of the rooms, with two floors, a private garden, and an outdoor deck with the best views of Dubai Creek.

A big lounge area, with comfortable wicker chairs surrounds the round, heated freeform pool. A gazebo offers shade for the hot tub, and there is a separate kiddy pool for splashing. There is a health and fitness center on-site, where guests can relax in the sauna or workout on the few cardio machines. The hotel also has its own salon and offers a free shuttle service to Jumeirah Public Beach and Dubai Outlet Mall.

The Copthorne also has three different dining options on-site. The Crystal Restaurant is open all day and offers international cuisine, including a selection of breakfast items. Gazebo Terrace is located on the pool terrace and offers light fare served alfresco. Choices Cafe is the best bet for snacks, coffee, and items to go.