Dream Inn Dubai - Claren Downtown

Walking around right outside Claren Tower is lovely. The location is one of Dubai's best, with views of Burj Khalifa and the downtown skyscrapers. Mizu restaurant on the ground floor is nice too.

We didn't get into the building until 4 p.m., an hour after the scheduled check-in, because access hadn't been updated even though I'd already sent my passport details. The host, Alina, hadn't replied with the access update, and we had to call her and spend an hour dealing with security. Check-in was set for 3 p.m., which is very late compared with most Airbnbs. I'd asked to come earlier and explained my situation, but she showed no concern. We had a key to the studio on the 14th floor, Room No.1402, but no access card. Each time we needed to enter the building, we had to bother security, who clearly weren't happy about it. Alina brushed this off and said security would handle it. The studio was barely decent, just four walls. The bathroom hadn't been cleaned properly, and the place seemed to have had only a quick wipe-down after hours of “cleaning.” One sofa leg was broken and I nearly had an accident sitting down. A fridge tray fell out when I opened the fridge. There were no basic things like tissues or towels, and we had to make the bed ourselves, which felt ridiculous for the price. Alina also got rude and defensive when I gave negative feedback. This was a terrible experience, absolutely not worth it, and I wouldn't recommend the place to anyone.

The location and living experience are nice, but maintenance is just okay. I'd give it four stars for the location overall.

I spent most of my stay in towers 2 and 1 and loved it. I'd recommend people go there.