Nestled in a cluster of similarly towering buildings, the Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites reaches heights that are dizzying even by Dubai standards. Opened in 2007, this 59-floor skyscraper feels more like a high-end, high-rise residential property than a hotel, both on the outside and in the small and fairly lackluster reception area on the inside. In fact most of its public areas are on the cramped side -- very few guests linger in the lobby or even around the modest-sized pool terrace. The focus instead is on apartment-style accommodation popular with longer term business visitors and families keen to self-cater. The showstopper, however, is the genuinely breathtaking panorama from the property's sky-high bar which must certainly qualify as one of Dubai's finest. 

The entrance to the hotel is on a side street at the end of the Dubai Marina complex located towards the south of the city. On one side of the hotel is the very busy Al Sufouh Road which runs parallel to the coast and brings traffic in and out of the Dubai Marina district. Once past this busy main street, however, it is a short walk to the very popular Jumeirah Beach Residence area. The popular Barasti Beach Bar is 10 minutes' walk away and the start of Dubai's longest private sandy beach. Those visiting for work are less that 10 minutes away from Media City and the surrounding business parks, while Dubai International Airport is 30 minutes away. 

The property has 232 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. All of the apartments are particularly spacious with separate dining and lounge areas and fully equipped kitchens. Although very large, clean, and modern the suites can feel a little bare and are lacking a real luxury finish or any distinct personality. All the amenities you'd expect from an upscale hotel are here, including bathrobes, iPod docks, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, and both wired and wireless Internet -- though neither is free of charge. Rooms also extend to furnished balconies featuring some of the most impressive views in Dubai -- at least from the higher levels -- though nearby construction might spoil the moment. 

The hotel's highlight is its 52nd floor Observatory Bar and Restaurant where guests can enjoy spectacular 360-degree views over the Palm Jumeirah -- particularly special at sunset. Dining can also be found at the Mediterranean-style AZ.U.R restaurant and the Counter Culture cafe, while a small spa provides massages treatments and steam room. A modest-size swimming pool can also be found on-site, with separate children's pool and sun loungers though it spends a lot of time in the shade of the towering hotel. Wi-Fi is available, but there is a pesky fee to connect.