There is a disturbing trend brewing in the hospitality world, and the newly opened Ciel Dubai Marina—now officially the world’s tallest hotel—might just be its new poster child.
We are used to hotels charging outsiders for pool access. That is standard practice. But when you book a stay at a record-breaking property, you expect the “record-breaking” features to be part of the package.
At the Ciel, the crown jewel is the Tattu Skypool on the 76th floor. It offers what are arguably the best views in the city, sweeping across the Marina, the Palm, and the Gulf. However, a prominent alert on the hotel’s website warns guests: “Access to Tattu Skypool on the 76th floor requires advance reservation and is subject to an additional charge.”
While the hotel does offer a standard infinity pool on the 11th floor, gatekeeping the property’s primary “wow” factor—the rooftop experience—behind an extra paywall feels like a “bad precedence” for luxury hospitality. It effectively treats the hotel’s best asset as a third-party venue rather than a guest amenity.
The Good News: It’s an IHG Property
The silver lining for points enthusiasts is that Ciel has joined the IHG Vignette Collection. This is IHG’s “soft brand” for unique, independent luxury properties, similar to Marriott’s Autograph Collection or Hilton’s Curio.
This means that despite its independent vibe, it is fully integrated into the IHG One Rewards ecosystem. Unlike staying at an independent skyscraper, your stay here counts:
- Earn & Burn: You can earn base and bonus points on cash rates, and you can redeem IHG points for free nights here.
- Elite Recognition: If you hold Platinum or Diamond Elite status, standard benefits apply. This should include complimentary upgrades (subject to availability), welcome amenities, and late check-out.
- Milestone Rewards: Your nights here count toward your Annual Lounge Membership or Confirmable Suite Upgrades.
World’s tallest hotel.
Controversy aside, the Ciel Dubai Marina is undeniably an architectural marvel. Standing at 365 meters (82 stories), it has officially dethroned the Gevora Hotel to become the tallest hotel on the planet.
For architecture geeks and view chasers, this is a bucket-list stay. The tower features a striking glass design with a “distinctive eye of the needle” opening at the summit to reduce wind pressure.
What to expect:
- 1,000+ Rooms: Ranging from deluxe rooms to suites, all featuring floor-to-ceiling windows.
- Dining: A heavy focus on culinary experiences, including East 14 (all-day dining), West 13 (international), and the aforementioned Tattu (contemporary Chinese).
- Beach Access: Guests get access to the Soluna Beach Club on The Palm, with a shuttle service provided.
- Wellness: A spa is slated to open in early 2026 on the 61st floor.
Opening Offers
If you want to check it out for yourself, the hotel has launched with a fairly aggressive opening promotion.
The “Grand Opening” Offer:
- Rate: Starts from AED 1050 per night.
- Inclusions:
- Breakfast for two.
- Guaranteed Room Upgrade to the next category.
- Early Check-in (11:00 AM) and Late Check-out (2:00 PM).
- 25% Discount on food and beverages at select outlets (Risen, East 14, West 13).
- Points: IHG One Rewards members can earn double points on this rate.
The Verdict
The Ciel is a stunning addition to the Dubai skyline and a massive win for the IHG portfolio in the region. The opening rates are competitive for a property of this magnitude, and being able to burn points here is excellent. However, if you are booking it specifically for that rooftop pool photo, be prepared to pull out your wallet twice.
