The eight-story peach stucco structure resembles an ‘80s beach construction and is badly in need of a coat of paint and renovation. A functional lobby holds a few armchairs and electronic massage chairs while providing a direct entrance into the adjacent bar and club; the venue generates a considerable amount of noise in the evenings, though patrons have noted the fifth and sixth floors of the hotel are relatively quiet. Multiple guests have commented that clientele from the bar and club congregate in the lobby, making the hotel generally unsuitable for families.

Located on the corner of a busy main road in the heart of Bur Dubai, the Panorama is situated several blocks from the metro that goes directly to the airport (no transfers, 30 minutes) as well as a few different bus lines. A large empty plot next door is used as a car park while Computer Plaza Al Ain Center, a mall specializing in computer hardware, is a short drive northeast. Visitors have reported that a few fast food and cheap eateries are near the hotel as well. The immediate area wouldn’t be considered a pretty part of town but still offers access to budget shops.

The Panorama has both updated and older rooms, with the latter having wall-to-wall carpeting, red bedspreads, scuffed up lacquered wood furniture, and small sitting areas with couches and easy chairs. Renovated units, though certainly brighter and more appealing, have a nightclub-like feel because of a slightly tacky combination of highly polished floors, glass-surface night tables, and high-shine taffeta couches. Updated bathrooms have rain showerheads in small plastic stalls with marble-style tiling. All rooms have mini-fridges, wall-mounted air-conditioning units, small concrete balconies, hairdryers, and flat-screen TVs.

Amenities are limited here, though there are some practical features offered. In addition to a free continental breakfast and bar adjacent to the lobby, the Panorama offers a tour desk, currency exchange, photocopying services, and airport shuttles. For guests with a more extended stay, laundry and dry-cleaning services are available as well. Wi-Fi, reportedly spotty, is available for a fee.