The Regency Dubai consists of a couple dozen floors in two main blocks. The exterior of the property bears a strong resemblance to a ‘90s-era office building, and the presence of a large ring road encircling the hotel reinforces the business feel. A handsome, high-ceilinged marble-lined lobby is fitted with recessed lighting, paneled with sections of dark wood, and populated by cushioned benches, couches, and interior potted palms. The overall vibe is chic, upscale, and corporate.

Situated almost on the waterfront at the edge of the Deira district, the hotel is somewhat isolated from its immediate surroundings by gardens, trees, a car park, and a few major roads. On one side is the Deira Corniche, and on the other a busy bus terminus. It is possible to reach the low-rise, downtown section of the Deira district on foot via a slightly circuitous pedestrian route (in about 12 minutes), and there are a number of restaurants -- including chain establishments like Burger King and McDonald's as well as local eateries -- in these tightly knit streets. Downtown Dubai is accessible via public transportation, but is a bit far away, about 50 minutes south with a transfer. Dubai International Airport is about 25 minutes southeast by public transportation, or less than 20 minutes away by car. 

The rooms have the feel of a comfortable, modern apartment with light wood panels and built-ins, recessed lighting, a few framed art prints, and mid-century modern-style work tables. Bathrooms feature marble sinks, make-up mirrors, and baths separate from circular, mosaic-tiled shower stalls with glass doors. Along with 24-hour room service, all rooms have wet bars, separate work areas, minibars, water kettles, 25-inch or larger TVs, air-conditioning, windows that open, and safes. Larger suites are split-level lofts with dark-wood features, separate living areas, floating wood and glass staircases, and high ceilings.

An airy, bright fitness center with a vast array of treadmills and nautilus equipment also contains free weights and additional machines in a mirrored room with engineered wood floors. There’s a large indoor ice rink with several floors of observation decks; other sports facilities include outdoor tennis courts, squash courts, a running track, and a somewhat small outdoor pool (for the size of the hotel) that some guests complain is disturbed by the sound of passing jets overhead. The hotel also claims Dubai’s only revolving rooftop restaurant, featuring an international buffet, with a Japanese eatery in the lobby as well.