Reflective glass rises 45 floors here, fitting in with the glitzy buildings throughout Dubai. While the JA Oasis Beach Tower lacks extensive resort features, most guests prefer the huge apartments over leisure facilities -- though an outdoor pool and kids' club are offered. The hotel's entrance is low-key, outfitted in beige tile, curved, multi-colored rugs, and white-leather benches along one wall. More impressive on account of its panoramic views, the Sky Lobby has lots of sheer glass and exposed metal, plus a grand piano, potted shrubbery, and cream sofas. The 33rd-floor Premium Lounge (accessible to Premium-category rooms only) offers free, all-day drinks and snacks, although with so much nearby, guests generally head outside for dining. This is a good pick for those wanting an apartment near Dubai Marina and the waterfront.

The hotel occupies a prime spot on "The Walk", a restaurant and entertainment-packed promenade running parallel to Marina Beach. There are loads of shops and restaurants -- even a supermarket -- surrounding (and inside) the hotel, while the beach is a five-minute walk away. Dubai Marina and its mall are eight minutes away on foot, as is the nearest tram station for connections to the metro. Affordable taxis are the preferred choice for reaching farther destinations. Free shuttles run to major malls and the sister hotel's private beach, but attractions such as the Dubai Mall and world's tallest Burj Khalifa building are at least 30 minutes away by car. Likewise are business districts and the Dubai International Airport.

Two-, three, and four-bedroom apartments have contemporary, albeit predictable decor, mostly outfitted in neutral tones with a few pops of blue, green, and/or yellow in paintings, rugs, and chaise loungers. Ranging from 2045 to 3660 square feet (190 to 340 square meters), the size of the apartments are one of the biggest draws. All except entry-level units have furnished balconies with lateral or full sea views, but construction can hinder vistas and cause noise issues. Fully equipped modern kitchens have ovens, stovetops, microwaves, toasters, kettles and Lavazzo espresso machines, and all necessary cookware. Welcome trays with snacks, breakfast fare such as cereal and muesli, and tea and coffee are thoughtful additions. Washer/dryers are also provided. Upgraded units add BOSE sound systems. 

Spacious living areas with flat-screen TVs, dining tables, and couches come standard, as do desks, closets with safes, ironing facilities, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, although it's reportedly weak in some bedrooms. Bathrooms -- at least two per apartment -- have deep soaking tubs and separate walk-in showers, or shower/tub combos, plus slippers, robes, bidets, and hairdryers. 

Considering the wealth of nearby offerings, limited features at the JA Oasis Beach Tower are reasonable. Although it's mostly in the shade, the freeform outdoor pool has a tropical look with boulders and palm trees, alongside limited loungers, umbrellas, and a splash section and waterslide for kids. A hot tub and snack bar are also out here. The Citrus Express & Lounge serves drinks and a la carte fare in an indoor or pleasant alfresco space with light-weight furniture under striped umbrellas. Guests mostly dine at Thyme Restaurant while on-site though, which offers Mediterranean buffet and a la carte cuisine, plus well-reviewed, all-you-can-eat breakfasts. 

The Sky Lounge's long sofas and minimalist finish are sleek, and Jumeirah Gulf views here are gorgeous. Vistas continue in the compact Premium Lounge, which serves free drinks and snacks all day to premium-level guests. The Chill Zone is a kid-friendly room with TV screens, bean bag chairs, and toys, but it's rare to find animation here. Five meeting rooms have high-back office chairs, equipment, and drinks stations. Pets aren't allowed. Free shuttles run to the mall and to JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort, where guests can access their private beach for free. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property.