One of a cluster of luxury hotels near Dubai International Airport, the Jumeirah is situated in the city’s Deira section. The glass and concrete structure houses 292 rooms that feature geometric, asymmetrical decor, wood panel built-ins, and tufted red leather, creating a ‘60s mod feel. There are an extensive number of on-site amenities and several eateries nearby, including a popular pub called The Irish Village which is close enough to the hotel that occasional noise complaints have been issued. Other problems cited by guests include the occasional lack of hot water, unsatisfactory service at check-in, and patchy Wi-Fi. 

Le Meridien is a 579-room luxury hotel located a quick drive from the airport. With 18 solid restaurants and bars; five heated outdoor pools (including one in the rooftop area); a wonderful spa; and a fully equipped fitness center, the property's features are on par with other luxury hotels in town. The Royal Club section features stylish rooms and wonderful amenities. But the main building -- with underwhelming standard rooms, and overall tired facilities -- is in need of an urgent update. Those looking to explore Dubai’s main attractions may find the hotel to be a little out of the way.

This 58-room airport hotel is a fairly nice, upper-middle-range version of the standard stopover hotel. Traditional room decor is a little out of date but the gym and pool are pleasing enough. And if the layover permits, a five-minute drive to the luxurious Le Meridien Dubai (open to all guests of Le Meridien Fairway) will dress up your stay quite a bit. Those willing to go up in price a little bit may prefer a stay in Le Meridien Duabi's stylish Royal Club Rooms. All in all, though, this is a good value for a short stay. 

The Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana is a large, modern hotel in Dubai's Deira neighborhood. The hotel is part of a larger two-tower complex that houses the 428 hotel rooms along with the Al Ghurair shopping mall. Throughout the property, there are extensive and luxurious amenities that one would expect from a four-pearl hotel, including a Bodylines fitness center with heated outdoor swimming pool, a full-range Zen spa, and two fine-dining restaurants. Rooms have modern decor, come with plenty of floor space, and are tastefully decorated in rich, warm tones. Two items worth noting is that the hotel is an alcohol-free zone and does not offer free Wi-Fi. This hotel would be the sensible choice for anyone looking to stay in Old Dubai, while staying close to the airport, Dubai Creek, the public transit system, and New Dubai.

Both tourists and business travelers looking to stay in the heart of Deira would do well at the four-pearl Flora Grand Hotel. Just a few metro stops from the airport and from the new upscale center of Dubai, the hotel is a notch above other hotels in the Deira vicinity thanks to a recent renovation. Rooms are modern and clean, with hardwood floors and views of the city, and facilities include a spa, outdoor pool, fitness center, state-of-the-art meeting and presentation rooms, and a restaurant and cafe. It's worth noting, though, that the restaurant does not serve alcohol (but several other restaurants are within easy walking distance) and the pool area might prove to be a bit small and lacking in loungers for families with young children.