Bali with an Arabic accent: first Jumeirah hotel opens on ‘Island of the Gods’

Perhaps the word “Jumeirah” has been heard at least once even by those who have never been to Bali or the United Arab Emirates. This is the name of one of the most famous resorts in Dubai. This is where the sumptuous hotels, stylish boutiques and Michelin-starred restaurants are located. This word is associated with Arabian luxury and eastern fairy tale. So it’s no surprise that the popular luxury resort chain Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts is named after this place. But the brand is not limited to the UAE and opens unique hotels around the world. One of them opened its doors in Bali. Let’s talk about it!

The world does not stand still and so is Bali

If you still think that Bali has desolate rice fields and lonely palm trees like in the movie Eat, Pray, Love, then you are very wrong. Bali is a frenzied rhythm, the energy of an Asian resort, bustling, sleepless cities, trendy establishments and entertainment for all tastes. This is an actively developing infrastructure and new areas are being built before our eyes. The island is changing, and with it the dynamics of local life. At the same time, places with almost untouched nature and authentic flavor remain.

One is the Pecatu region in southwestern Bali; it’s a new powerhouse for travelers who value peace and comfort (and surfing too, as there are many good spots nearby). After noisy Canggu and even busier Seminyak, it seems like you’ve literally landed on another island. And in the center of this oasis, right on the coast of the Indian Ocean, is the resort of Jumeirah Bali.

Dubai luxury in Bali scenery

Approaching the hotel, it is as if you find yourself in a palace: a corridor of fountains, marble floors, snow-white vaulted arches literally stands above the ocean.

At the entrance stands the 120-year-old sacred Bodhi tree, traditionally planted in front of royal residences. From your doorstep, you’re captured by the wonderful combination of local authentic color and simple Arabian luxury (Emirates love grand gestures).

It’s like a precious picture enclosed in a large frame. This impression is heightened when you are in a villa where classical (and in essence quite simple) Balinese architecture is combined with elegant, thoughtful design and intricate interior solutions. All villas are equipped with a smart home system (which is why sometimes funny situations arise – for example, we did not immediately notice that at night the light in the bathroom turns on automatically when one of the people gets out of bed), private pool, outdoor shower and a small but very green patio.

Inside and outside of Jumeirah Bali

We named Pecatu beach the Bali Portofino because of a series of tranquil harbors and how picturesquely the houses here descend into the ocean. From the hotel you can go to the wild beach hidden among the rocks or walk up the hill with incredible views of the coastline. The water is azure, but often restless (remember, local surfers appreciate Pecata for the waves). 15 minutes by bike (20 minutes by car) and you find yourself in the center of the area, where popular cafes (Ours, Gooseberry) coexist with popular yoga clubs (Alchemy).

But if there is no desire to leave the picturesque area of ​​​​the hotel (we understand very well!), then here you can find various entertainment options. Treatments, yoga and meditation classes, acupuncture treatments, and even a round of golf at the Talise Spa (there are three full golf courses in the neighborhood).

Dinner at Akasa Gastro Grill restaurant is a pleasure. It is located on the top of a cliff that literally hangs above the ocean, so the views from here are stunning: you can clearly see both the territory of the hotel and the entire beach.

The interior design is also unique: lots of glass, a panoramic terrace, open fireplaces surrounded by soft sofas. On the one hand, the atmosphere is serious, and on the other, relaxed and relaxed.

The sunsets here are amazing, so we recommend booking a table between 6 PM and 6:30 PM to try the full spectrum of colors from light pink to fiery orange to see the sky and ocean. Believe me, the show is truly unforgettable like the entire vacation in Jumeirah Bali.