Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Hotel Riu Dubai
Velas Resorts vs Riu Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.3 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 4.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 750 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 4 |
| Pools | 4 | 6 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | — |
| Year Renovated | — | — |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | No |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | Yes |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 10 |
| Included | 11 | 10 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 7 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 4 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 20 |
| Included | 18 | 18 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 2 |
Pros & Cons
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Pros
- The only all-inclusive in the world simultaneously holding Forbes Five Stars, AAA Five Diamonds, and a MICHELIN-starred restaurant — a genuine distinction, not a marketing claim
- Cocina de Autor's 8-10 course tasting menu with wine pairing is fully included in the all-inclusive rate — at a standalone restaurant this would cost hundreds per person
- Every suite starts at 1,081 sq ft with ocean views, private terrace jacuzzi, and 24-hour butler concierge — the entry suite here exceeds most competitors' top categories
- Three-tier infinity pools naturally segregate family, activity, and adult-only zones without restricting access — practical design rather than strict policy
Cons
- Beach is not swimmable — Los Cabos Pacific currents make ocean swimming dangerous; the infinity pools are where guests actually swim
- Cocina de Autor is restricted to adults and guests 18+ — families with younger children can't access the MICHELIN-starred restaurant during their stay
- Rates start around $1,600/night in low season and $1,800+ in peak winter — a significant commitment that requires being genuinely invested in the Five Diamond experience to justify
Hotel Riu Dubai
Pros
- Only established 4-star all-inclusive beachfront family option in Dubai — fills a genuine gap in the market
- Private beach with calm Arabian Gulf water — uncommon for Dubai hotel guests
- Splash Water World and dual children's pools provide a full day of programming for kids without leaving the property
- 11 km from DXB — one of the shorter airport transfers for a beach resort in Dubai
Cons
- UAE law sets alcohol consumption at 21+, not 18 — groups with members aged 18–20 will be restricted at bars and swim-up facilities
- Dubai Islands location is still developing — limited walking access to restaurants or retail outside the resort
- Summer months (June–September) are extreme heat and humidity — the resort operates year-round but beach and outdoor pool time is uncomfortable without air conditioning breaks
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Hotel Riu Dubai is the larger property, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.