Even by the standards of an emirate that shows all the constructional restraint of a toddler with a trunk of Lego, Dubai is in turbocharge mode. Eminent hotel groups are flooding in as superhotels spring up on man-made islands. Yet for all Dubai’s veneration of the new, decades of innovation have left a legacy of eye-catching and, in some cases, surprisingly affordable sanctuaries in which to bed down, whether you’re based in Burj Khalifa-dominated Downtown, the buzzing Marina or amid the sugary sands of Jumeirah Beach and the Palm. Throughout it all, the hospitality ecosystem seems to hum with a customer-is-king efficiency.

The design of these grand destinations is matched only by the majestic settings

Villa news

Milestone anniversaries, a total eclipse, new hiking trails and major cultural projects are just some of the reasons to travel next year. National Geographic’s global community of explorers, photographers and editors have handpicked this year’s list of 25 destinations to inspire your next adventure — covering everything from sports travel to seminal road trips

TREAT YOURSELF THIS SEASON WITH BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED BOOKS FOR ASPIRATIONAL TRAVELS, BOTH REAL AND IMAGINED

Twenty great cottages to suit every group holiday