This Dubai Hotel Will Feature a Snow Plaza and a Raining Street

This one, like most of the new regional developments, is for the nature lovers out there. 

Dubai’s World Islands, the famed world-map-shaped archipelago of artificial islands, has announced a new USD 270 million development that draws inspiration from the architectural marvels of the Spanish resort town of the same name – Marbella Resort Hotel, Vignette Collection by IHG Hotels and Resorts.

Set to welcome guests in January 2026, the 150-key luxury resort will feature suites, chalets and cabanas, all overlooking the Arabian Gulf. However, the real out-of-the-box showstopper is a tie between the snow plaza and the one-kilometre raining street with year-round rain. 

As for the nature-centred elements, those include half a million square metres of 9 different types of coral reefs, which house over 30 types of fish and surround the entire resort, making it one of the first in the world to feature private coral reefs for its guests. And all these coral reefs come hand in hand with water-based activities such as snorkelling, diving and underwater living experiences. 

Beyond accommodation and amenities, The Marbella Resort Hotel will house six dining destinations, including Descanso, the signature European restaurant, Arenda Dorada, a beach and pool restaurant, The Challet Sierra, an après ski bar by the snow plaza, and The Citrus Gem, which will serve light bites, pastries, and authentic Spanish coffee. 

The Heart of Europe, where Marbella Resort Hotel will take up residence, has already opened its French Riviera-inspired adults-only five-star party hotel – the voco Monaco Dubai.