ACCOMMODATION

The Armani experience begins with a Bentley waiting at the Dubai International Airport. The driver offers a cold towel and a choice of still or sparkling water while, fittingly, Travie McCoy's chart-topper "Billionaire" plays on the radio. Though it's 6 a.m., staff members whisk a traveler from the muted atrium lobby of circular steel-gray couches to the eighth floor.

Legendary Italian designer Giorgio Armani has become the proud owner of one of the most beautiful Greek islands – Scorpios. Several months ago, Armani opened his first hotel. It is in the highest building in the world – skyscraper Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

The world's first hotel under the Armani branding has been opened in Dubai and offers 160 luxury rooms and suites. It is located on the first eight floors as well as the 38th and 39th of the Burj Khalifa – currently the world's tallest building.

Dubai Pearl is an integrated premium quality development featuring branded podium, tower residences, and branded hospitality, as well as retail, entertainment and office premises. The project is developed by Pearl Dubai LLC, a consortium of seasoned investors.

The Palazzo Versace Dubai Resort and Condominiums is a landmark project and will be located within Culture Village on the Dubai Creek, a premium waterfront location with unobstructed views of the creek. The residential wings of Ala Destra and Ala Sinistra will offer 169 luxury condominiums ranging from one to six bedrooms with access to the hotel's services.

Skyview Bar Hotel: Burj Al Arab, Dubai, 5* Spending the night at the Burj Al Arab may be out of reach for many, but experiencing the extravagance is still possible by visiting the Skyview Bar. Suspended 200 meters above sea level on the 27th floor of the Burj Al Arab, many say the spectacular views make the pricey drinks worth every penny.

The Armani Hotel Burj is part of the Burj Khalifa development, the tallest commercial and residential building in the world. Previously known as Burj Dubai, it was renamed Burj Khalifa during its inauguration on 4 January 2010.

The Armani Hotel occupies the first eight floors as well as levels 38 and 39 of the Burj Khalifa, Dubai's tallest tower. With a total of 160 rooms and suites furnished with refined luxury, the Armani hotel truly represents a unique fusion of opulence and minimalism.

Among those due to be handed over this year is the Hotel Missoni, which follows the footsteps of Gucci and Armani, and will open its first property in Kuwait this September.

While most of these projects are still under construction, a few such as the Dusit Residence Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Living World Trade Centre Residences and the Armani Burj Khalifa Residences have proved popular despite the downturn.