The best of boutique in Dubai and the Maldives

On its own private island with a soaring cityscape behind, Bvlgari’s 101-room Arbian outpost is a bubble of escapism within a bustling metropolis. Channelling Italy’s modern glamour and mixing it up with Dubai’s nautical side, there’s a unique charm and elegance befitting the brand’s iconic status, but its anything but fussy. Here, days are spent leisurely around the resort’s or Private Yacht Club’s pool and partaking in small-group gatherings like wine tastings and mixologist classes; there isn’t even any rush to breakfast with Il Caffé serving tasty morning morsels way into the afternoon.

From a private island flanked by city lights to one surrounded by endless Maldivian horizons, ‘freedom’ is the word that springs to mind when at The Nautilus. With just 26 keys, staff get to know guests’ wants and needs with no time wasted and impeccable attention to detail. It’s a fully flexible affair, with an unscripted dining concept throwing out both menus and schedules, and excursions dictated by each individual then and there – this is a place where time bends to each guest’s will.