Stayed there for a one night stopover in September 2007. It is located relatively close to the airport. Room was nice, clean and equipped with all you need. Service was friendly and breakfast excellent. The lobby is spectacular, ranging in height over several floors, and all rooms are entered from balconies inside that big hall. Great design, but the downside is exactly that - all the noise from the hall goes straight into the room. There are several bars, restaurants and even a place with live music in the hall, so be prepared to have the noise in your room until early morning (when they finally finish cleaning the bars, moving chairs and tables around etc.). Not for those of us who need their sleep. Solution to this would be simple and not too costly: Similar to many hotels, an extra door between bedroom and entrance area (where the wardrobe is located and the door opens to the bathroom) would help to keep out the noise from the hall.

My husband, 3 year old daughter and I stayed here for 2 nights in the Club room. I booked through asiarooms and got a great price. We checked in late- about 1am and were greeted with friendly efficient service. We were allocated a roomy, comfortable and modern room which was a delight! It was quiet on the 9th floor- I heard no noise from the windows- were double-glazed. We arrived to a plate of fruit and complimentary water. There was the usual extras in the bathroom- the aromatherapy kind! There was bath salts for the huge bath, use of robes and a bidet. The pool was outside on the 4th floor, with a separate pool for young children, and a spa. Breakfast was from 6am in the club lounge, however, the 'hot' food was not always appetising. There was the usual cereal, fruit, toast and croissants etc. The best part was probably the cocktail evenings, where you have complimentary beer, wine and spirits. The only negative we encountered was the very soft pillows and mattress which was due to the duck feathers! Once we removed the quilt of feathers from beneath the bottom sheet and used the more comfortable pillows, we were alright!
As for airport transfers, the cost is far greater than a taxi- according to reception! They also recommended we change our money at the airport in future, something good to know! I also heard that the Euro is accepted in many places in Dubai. I did not get to eat in the acclaimed Spice Island Restaurant- we ate heaps during our cocktails in the lounge! But I heard lots of positive comments from other guests. All-in-all, I can highly recommend this fine hotel which has well-trained staff!

Just back from a 10 day stay at the Renaissance, and what can i say? It was brill. My husband and I took our 7 and 10 year old children for an Easter break. I had already read great reviews about this hotel, but was still a bit wary until we got there. We booked directly with the hotel and got a room on the 6th floor with access to the club lounge and also a club reception.
Arrived approx. 8am (Dubai time), so we were travelling overnight. Were greeted by our driver at the airport and after a 15 minute drive we arrived at the hotel. Location is in the heart of the bustling city but with cheap taxis readily available no distance is too far. Having already visited Dubai, 2 years previous, I have noticed the traffic has increased quite considerably.
Arriving just before 9am, we weren't expecting to get into our room much before 3pm but were pleasantly surprised to have our rooms ready within an hour. Had breakfast and then got into the room. Room was quite small as there were 4 of us, but for 2-3 it would have been adequate. To be fair, I think they accomodated us, as we were having difficulty finding any hotel that could have us all in one room within our budget.
Pool is located on the 4th floor, and the kids were totally happy with it. There was a separate childrens pool but wasn't necessary as they can both swim. Pool staff were extremely courteous and helpful at all times.
Although we had access to the Club Lounge for a continental style breakfast, we soon discovered the main lounge for all types of breakfast, which suited all of us better.
Even though this hotel may be used for Business purposes we found it most pleasant. We seemed to be the only family staying with children, but that meant that our children had the run of the pool!! All hotel staff were very pleasant and couldn't do enough for us.
This has got to be one of the best hotels we have stayed in and would definitely recommend it to anyone of any age.

I stayed at the hotel for 10 days while on a business trip. A bit out of the way from the business district but very easy to get around by taxi. The hotel is extremely comfortable with a great breakfast and good restaurants. The hotel pool is absolutely wonderful and there is a full workout room with steam/sauna for both men and women. The pool staff is extremely helpful and always there when needed. The Renaissance has beach priveledges with the Dubai Marina and Beach Club. For a small fee take them up on it as it is a great way to spend the day or a few hours. We were in Dubai for business but the atmosphere is so warm and inviting. Restaurants to visit are Noodles in The Emerates Tower, India and Buda Bar in Grovenor House and of Course Ritz Carlton, Le Meridien and Mina A Salam hotels all of which serve exquisite meals and great ambiance. The rooms are comfortable and well taken care of by the hotel attendants. The beds as usual are very comfortable. Only complaint and a small one was the cost of internet service. I booked three rooms as some of my staff traveled with me. Internet was approx $30 U.S./day times 3 rooms at 10 days. Otherwise this place is a great stay and reasonably priced. Enjoy your stay in Dubai and enjoy this hotel. It will be a good starting point to explore and find the many other places to visit on your next trip!