A Nomadic Odyssey at 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central
In the heart of Dubai’s One Central district, where the skyline serves as a blueprint for the future, the 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central has emerged as a disruptive narrator. Opened in late 2021, it is far more than a place to sleep; it is a modern-day Hakawati—an Arab storyteller—that weaves the ancient wisdom of the Bedouins into the high-octane energy of a global metropolis.
In a city often defined by spectacle and magnitude, this hotel stands out as an urban ecosystem. It is a place shaped by movement—a deliberate pause within the city’s relentless pulse where hospitality becomes storytelling and paths cross, even if only for a brief stay.
A Celestial Welcome: The Lobby as a Cultural Crossroads
From the first step inside, the lobby announces that this is not a traditional reception area, but a living, breathing social space. At its heart sits the Fountain of Tales, a monumental installation surrounded by tiered seating and a library curated with over 10,000 volumes. Above it floats a rotating globe by artist Marwan Shakarchi, whose signature cloud motifs symbolize hope and the universal dream of travel.
©Sigurd Magnor Killerud
Casting your eyes upward, the ceiling reveals a sprawling celestial map titled "Under the Same Sky" by Dominik Bulka. This witty, hand-drawn reinterpretation of the constellations reminds every guest that regardless of their origin, they share the same sky. For those seeking a moment of tactile joy, the oversized swinging chairs by Muriel Gallardo Weinstein invite guests to linger, representing the intertwined lives of Dubai’s diverse population—from the nomadic roots of the past to the global residents of today.
©Sigurd Magnor Killerud
Floor by Floor: The Evolution of a Nation
The hotel’s architecture and its interiors serve as a chronological timeline of the UAE. Each floor acts as a chapter in a larger story of human migration and settlement:
The Ancient Nomads (Levels 2-3): Here, the aesthetic is raw and earthy. Beige tones and tribal textures pay homage to the pearl divers and desert dwellers who first navigated these lands, creating a space that feels grounded in history.
The Advanced Nomads (Levels 4-5): This level documents the city’s rapid transformation. Through a curated collection of photography, guests witness the "old" Dubai shifting into the urban miracle of the present.
The Modern Nomads (Levels 7-8): These floors are a tribute to the UAE’s future. Inspired by the nation’s space missions, the design features cosmic motifs and nods to the astronauts who are the new pioneers of the desert sky.
Sanctuaries for the Modern Wanderer
The 434 guestrooms extend the hotel’s philosophy on an intimate scale, favoring "curated maximalism" over standardization. From the rustic Bedouin Rooms to the creative Artist Village Suites, each room is a curated cabinet of curiosities. Many are arranged around a central courtyard—the social heart of the building—reminding guests that they are part of a living community.
The undisputed masterpiece is the Hakawati Suite. Boasting a "Sheikh-sized" triple-king bed and a private bar, it is designed for those who view travel as a performance. With a secret staircase connecting to additional rooms and a view that frames the Museum of the Future like a living painting, it is one of the most unique suites in the Middle East.
The Soul of the Analogue
In a city that prides itself on being the "smartest" in the world, 25hours makes a bold case for the tactile. The Analogue Circus is a sanctuary for the senses, housing over 500 vinyl records, a professional podcast studio, and a collection of vintage typewriters. For guests in the suites, the "Analogue Upgrade" brings a trunk to the door filled with Polaroid cameras and VHS tapes—a reminder that the best memories are often the ones you can hold in your hand.
A Culinary Microcosm
The hotel’s dining experiences are designed as social catalysts, offering a sensory journey through diverse global cultures:
Tandoor Tina: A vibrant explosion of Jaipur pastel pinks and lush botanicals. Specializing in the ancient art of cooking over fire, the menu features charcoal-grilled Indian fusion, from charred breads and fragrant dips to expertly marinated local fish. Guests can retreat to the "Luggage Room," a private dining enclave for twelve with secret views of the surrounding landmarks.
Ernst Biergarten & Wirtshaus: Bringing the conviviality of a traditional Bavarian tavern to the desert, this venue features long communal tables designed to turn strangers into friends. It serves authentic beers and comfort food in a spirited, informal atmosphere that feels worlds away from the DIFC boardrooms.
Monkey Bar: Perched on the sixth floor, this world-renowned Berlin export offers a raw, energetic rooftop vibe with panoramic skyline views.
Nomad Day Bar: A ground-floor hub that serves as the city's living room. It is an all-day social anchor where the aroma of fresh brews meets a relaxed, work-friendly environment.
Juña Rooftop Shisha: A laid-back retreat for unhurried conversations under the stars, framed by the glittering city lights.
The Gateway to Culture
Perhaps the hotel’s most significant contribution to the neighborhood is its partnership with Cinema Akil. As the Gulf’s only independent arthouse cinema, its seasonal outdoor outpost provides an intimate 72-seat theater that hosts complimentary screenings, positioning the hotel as a cultural beacon for film enthusiasts.
A Pause in the Motion
The 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central is an urban ecosystem that celebrates the friction of life. Whether you are borrowing a Schindelhauer bike to explore the district or sipping coffee at the Nomad Day Bar, you are part of a living story. In a city that is always moving, this hotel provides something rare: a reason to stay, to listen, and to truly be present.
All photos by Sigurd M. Killerud
- Our stay was hosted -