Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, epitomizes British sophistication amidst Dubai’s extravagant landscape. Managed by Juan Carlos Reina since Barcelo Hotel Group started to manage the property in March 2019, this luxurious gem on Palm Jumeirah offers beautiful panoramic views, a private beach, and meticulous attention to detail.

The hotel’s dedication to creating lasting memories through personalized service sets it apart, offering experiences for couples, families, and guests seeking a distinctive luxury stay.

Join us as we spend some time with Mr. Juan Carlos Reina, the General Manager of Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, to find out more about the award-winning hotel.

Luxury Lifestyle Awards: Congratulations on being selected as one of Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ Top 100 Hotel General Managers for 2023! We would love to get a brief overview of what your professional journey has been like, and how you got to Dukes the Palm.

Mr. Juan Carlos Reina: My professional journey began over 30 years ago when I completed my university studies and was selected for a training program for future General Managers at Meliá Hotels International. This opportunity led me to become the General Manager of a resort in Cuba at the age of 27, making me the youngest GM in the company at that time. This journey lasted approximately 12 years, during which I had the privilege of managing 5-star hotels in Spain and Cuba. Subsequently, for three years, I was part of the project led by Universal Studios south of Barcelona (Spain) at the Port Aventura Theme Park, serving as the GM of the Port Aventura Hotel. Following this, I joined Barcelo Hotel Group, where I have spent the majority of my professional career over the last 20 years. I have managed notable hotels such as the iconic Hotel Formentor, Royal Hideaway Hotel, and Barcelo Punta Umbria Beach Resort. Additionally, I served as the Area Director in Huelva (Spain) and Rome (Italy) before being appointed to lead our flagship hotel in the Middle East, the Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel.

LLA: What skills or strengths have you garnered in your position as Dukes the Palm’s General Manager?

JCR: As Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel General Manager, I’ve developed my skills for effective hotel management, including strong leadership to guide multicultural teams, strategic decision-making aligned with objectives, seamless collaboration fostering a positive work environment, and an unwavering commitment to exceptional guest service, consistently exceeding expectations and upholding the hotel’s reputation for excellence.

LLA: The panoramic views and exclusive location of Dukes The Palm offer an exceptional experience. How do you ensure that guests feel a sense of tranquility amidst the vibrant energy of Dubai?

JCR: Leveraging our exclusive location and thoughtful design elements, we provide peaceful retreats with breathtaking panoramic views. Our attentive staff is dedicated to fulfilling individual needs, creating a seamless and tranquil stay. Whether enjoying the private beach or unwinding in luxurious accommodations, we strive to immerse guests in a calmness that complements Dubai’s dynamic atmosphere.

LLA: Could you walk us through the meticulous design and unique amenities that make each of the 279 rooms and suites, along with the 285 luxurious apartments, an unforgettable experience for guests?

JCR: The 279 rooms, suites, and 285 luxurious apartments at Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel are meticulously designed to provide an unforgettable experience. Each space features unique amenities and blends bespoke furnishings. Our design philosophy emphasizes a harmonious blend of luxury and functionality, creating visually appealing and comfortable environments. Exclusive features, including panoramic views, high-end finishes, and personalized touches, elevate the guest experience. Whether in a room, suite, or apartment, our commitment to a distinctive and memorable stay is evident in every detail of design and amenities.

LLA: Dukes The Palm prides itself on culinary excellence, notably the award-winning Khyber restaurant and the iconic Dukes Bar. Can you share with us some special features of your gastronomic offerings?

JCR: Our commitment to culinary excellence is exemplified through our renowned establishments—the award-winning Khyber restaurant and the iconic Dukes Bar. Our gastronomic offerings boast special features that elevate the dining experience. Khyber presents an exquisite blend of authentic flavors, providing a culinary journey through Indian cuisine in a luxurious setting. With marina views and available outdoor seating, patrons can enjoy live entertainment and partake in unique culinary experiences like Bollywood Night and Shandhya Drunch. Meanwhile, the iconic Dukes Bar offers expertly crafted cocktails and serves delightful gourmet cuisine amidst a sophisticated ambiance, complete with live sports screening. Both venues showcase meticulous attention to detail, exceptional service, and a commitment to delivering an unforgettable dining experience, ensuring that our guests savor not only delicious meals but also the essence of culinary excellence.

LLA: The leisure offerings at Dukes The Palm, from the indoor swimming pool on the 14th floor to the innovative Kids Club and private beach, are diverse. How do these amenities cater to both families and discerning travelers seeking leisure and relaxation?

JCR: Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel provides a diverse array of leisure amenities, catering to both families and discerning travelers seeking relaxation. These include a fitness center, an infinity pool, an indoor swimming pool on the 14th floor, Dukesy Kids Club, and a private beach. Families can delight in the Kids Club, offering safe and entertaining spaces for children, while discerning travelers can find tranquility in the indoor swimming pool, infinity pool, and the exclusive private beach with a variety of water sports. In addition to a well-equipped gym, we offer a variety of classes for both kids and adults, such as boxing, swimming, and yoga. These carefully curated amenities ensure a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for all guests seeking leisure and relaxation at our hotel.

LLA: The commitment to creating unforgettable moments for guests is evident. Can you share some memorable instances where yours and the staff’s dedication went above and beyond to ensure a guest’s experience was truly exceptional?

JCR: Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel exemplifies a steadfast dedication to creating unforgettable moments, showcased in numerous instances where both our commitment and our exceptional staff’s efforts have exceeded expectations for remarkable guest experiences. Whether surprising guests with personalized amenities, arranging distinctive dining experiences, or promptly addressing special requests, our team consistently goes above and beyond. Our primary commitment is our guest satisfaction.

LLA: With a remarkable collection of accolades and awards, how do these recognitions influence the hotel’s commitment to maintaining its high standards and continuously exceeding guest expectations?

JCR: Our extensive accolades and awards showcase our unwavering commitment to excellence across every aspect of our hotel. These recognitions drive us to consistently surpass guest expectations and maintain the highest standards, reinforcing the importance of exceptional service, outstanding facilities, and an unwavering pursuit of guest satisfaction. Instead of resting on past achievements, these accolades motivate us to continually innovate, refine our offerings, and enhance the overall guest experience. We are devoted to upholding the reputation that has earned us these accolades, ensuring every guest receives the exceptional treatment that defines our commitment to excellence.

LLA: In a city renowned for luxury, what future innovations or plans does Dukes The Palm have in store to further elevate the experience for guests seeking a touch of royalty during their stay?

JCR: We are currently developing two important projects for our hotel. The first is to create a new gastronomic concept with a fusion of Spanish and Arabic cuisine. Our goal in the upcoming years is to become eligible for a Michelin Star. The second project is to enhance the gastronomic offerings on our terrace by incorporating a snack restaurant built in a double-decker London bus. This will be complemented by a retail area, allowing our customers to make purchases of various items as well as taste different tapas-style dishes and snacks.

LLA: And finally, can you share with us any future aspirations you have for your own professional journey?

JCR: I would love to continue leading the Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel project, and be part of the development that Barcelo Hotel Group is undertaking in the Middle East and Asia. This involves assisting both companies, Seven Tides Limited and Barcelo Hotel Group, in expanding their number of hotels and ensuring the efficient management of various business units.

Thank you for your time, Juan Carlos Reina!

To book your next magical stay at Dukes the Palm today, visit https://www.barcelo.com/en-us/dukes-the-palm-royal-hideaway/