Although offering fewer (and more basic) amenities than other upscale properties, Xclusive Hotel Apartments Dubai is a good pick for families, business travelers, and extended stay guests. The hotel features one- and two-bedroom apartments, all equipped with full kitchens and decorated in contemporary style. Common spaces are all small but look fairly fresh and modern, with a few pops of color here and there, and a variety of textures. The lobby, for instance, is bright and airy, with a small dark wood front desk, a couple of couches in earth tones and burgundy, and a handful of bright red details. This color palette extends to the rooms as well.

Xclusive Hotel Apartments is located in Al Mankhool, a quiet residential neighborhood in Bur Dubai district home to apartment buildings and hotels. There is a large supermarket and a couple of other convenience stores down the street, so guests can stock their kitchens without going too far. This is a good location for those looking to visit Dubai’s many malls (BurJuman shopping center is a short walk away), but travelers interested in seeing the city’s major attractions may want to note that there are few sights within walking distance. There are two metro stations a 15-minute walk away, and taxis are inexpensive and readily available.

The hotel features 56 one- and two-bedroom self-catering units with full kitchens, a living and dining area, and one bathroom per bedroom. Standard amenities include LCD TVs, washers, microwaves, full-sized fridges, air-conditioning, cooktops, and ovens. Many also have unfurnished balconies, although views are unexciting. All apartments feature similar contemporary decor in muted tones with a few pops of burgundy and dark orange in armchairs, rugs and headboards; dark wood furniture; and brown accent walls. Guests can choose between Executive and Deluxe apartments. The only difference between them is that Deluxe units get a few nice extras, including butler service, free pick-up and drop-off service at the airport, and turndown service.

The rooftop area, although a little bit unimpressive, is a nice perk, featuring panoramic views, a few loungers and tables, and free towel service. It is smallish and basic, but a decent spot for a lazy afternoon or a few morning power laps. The fitness center is bright, spacious, and pleasant, with laminate floors, a few cardio and strength-training machines, and free weights. The hotel also offers one meeting room for up to 24 guests -- complete with audiovisual equipment and Wi-Fi -- free parking, and babysitting services. Deluxe guests get a few great freebies, including airport shuttle service, turndown, shoeshine service, and newspapers. But the hotel lacks a restaurant.