Sheraton Jumeirah Beach is a small resort with a laid-back vibe. The building, among the smallest on the beachfront, is surrounded by extensive manicured gardens with palm trees and flowers. The atmosphere here is relaxed and family-friendly, with a wide range of amenities great for kids. The hotel also caters to business travelers with extensive meeting space and business-oriented services -- but with the array of hotels specifically geared towards the corporate traveler in other areas closer to the financial center, the property draws mostly families and couples. Decor in common spaces is classic and elegant, with a few generic touches. Rooms, however, are a little underwhelming, with a mix of generic and somewhat bland blonde wood furniture, and a couple of more inspired details. 

The hotel is located directly on Jumeirah Beach, one of Dubai’s most famous stretches of sand. While Jumeirah Beach Residence (known as JBR) is busy, with cafés, restaurants and shops, this area -- located at the far end of the beachfront -- is somewhat quieter. Still, most attractions in JBR are within a pleasant walk along the beach. The airport is a half-hour drive away from the hotel, and central Dubai can be reached either by taxi in about 15 minutes, or by metro. The nearest Metro station is Business Bay, located less than a 10-minute walk away.

The hotel features 256 spacious, bright rooms, including Standard and Club rooms, and Suites of varying sizes. Decor is a little chain-style, with generic and mostly classic blonde furniture, cream walls, and standard bathrooms with shower/tub combos and hotel-brand toiletries. Interactive LCD TVs, comfy signature beds, stocked minibars, and coffeemakers are all standard amenities. Many rooms have sea or The Walk views, but others overlook the quiet grounds. Garden Suites, for instance, have garden and pool views, as well as a terrace and direct beach access. Club Rooms are standard rooms with a few extra perks, such as free access to the Club Lounge, and free breakfast, snacks and happy hour drinks. Basic (read: slow) Wi-Fi is free in all room types, but high-speed Internet is only available for an extra fee. 

The Sheraton is one of the most kid-friendly hotels in this part of town. It is not only on a quiet beach with no waves but also features a kids’ club with activities and a playground directly on the sand; large rooms that can fit an extra bed; several restaurants -- including a buffet; and water sports for teens. The hotel also offers a wide array of amenities for adults, such as a beach lounge; several bars; a nice spa with a hammam and treatments rooms; a PADI-certified diving center; a huge fitness center with a squash court and yoga classes; and a large pool with a swim-up bar. Those planning to hold a corporate event may want to check out the extensive meeting rooms, all featuring natural light and up-to-date technologies.