Dubai is a city full of surprises, offering something new to discover each time you visit. It is famous for its hidden gems, luxurious experiences, architectural attractions, and beautiful beaches.
Among its unique offerings is the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel, a historic ship transformed into a luxury floating hotel. It offers one of the best cruise experiences in Dubai.
The Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel is the only floating hotel in Dubai and a true historic treasure. It is located in Port Rashid, just minutes from the beach, Dubai Downtown, and the metro. Dubai International Airport is also a short drive away.
The hotel has 447 unique rooms and suites, along with 3 restaurants and bars. Guests can stay active in the gym, swim in the indoor pool, or enjoy world-class shows in the licensed theatre. The hotel also offers a free shuttle bus to help you explore Dubai’s attractions easily.
History of Queen Elizabeth 2 Ship:
The Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) is a famous ocean liner built in Clydebank, Scotland 1967. It served as a luxurious passenger ship for nearly 40 years, carrying celebrities and travellers worldwide. In 2008, the ship was sold to Dubai World for $100 million. The plan was to transform it into a floating hotel near the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai.
However, the global financial crisis delayed these plans. The QE2 remained unused for years, moving between Port Rashid and a drydock. There were many ideas for its future, including sending it to Cape Town for the 2010 World Cup or converting it to China. Some even feared it would be scrapped.
Finally, in 2018, the QE2 reopened as a floating luxury hotel in Dubai. It now offers guests a chance to experience its historic charm. The ship retains features like its iconic red funnel and vintage interiors. Scots, in particular, feel a strong connection to the QE2, as it was built in Scotland and launched with much pride. The QE2 continues its legacy as a symbol of maritime history and luxury, much like the Queen Mary in California.
Things to do on Queen Elizabeth 2:
The Queen Elizabeth 2 has a rich history, completing over 1,400 voyages and travelling more than 6 million nautical miles. Built in Clydebank, Scotland, the QE2 was part of 25 world cruises from 1969 to 2008. One of its main highlights is the onboard museum, which showcases its early days as an ocean liner and its 39 years of service. Dine with ocean views, relax in luxurious suites, and explore QE2 Dubai’s historic stories and unique cultural journey.
Here is the complete guide to walk you through it.
1. Dining Options on Queen Elizabeth 2:
The QE2’s dining options offer everything from fine dining to comforting favourites, all in a stunning setting.
Let’s explore.
1. Lido Restaurant: International Cuisine
Experience:
Enjoy international dining with stunning sea views at the Lido Restaurant on the QE2. Located on the Quarter Deck, it offers buffets for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a chic, family-friendly setting.
Menu Highlights:
- 3 eggs your way
- QE2 special Wagyu cheeseburger
- Falafel wraps
- Neapolitan pizzas
- Tiramisu and ice creams
Must-Try:
Don’t miss the delicious Arabic delicacies at the breakfast buffet or the sumptuous international dinner spread.
Timings & Price:
- Breakfast Buffet: AED 99 per person (7:00 AM – 10:30 AM)
- Lunch Buffet: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM
- À la Carte: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Dinner Buffet: 6:30 PM – 11:00 PM
2. Queens Grill: Regal Dining Experience
Experience:
Walk through corridors adorned with QE2’s rich history to reach the Queens Grill. Once the most famous restaurant at sea, it now offers a royal British ambience perfect for afternoon tea or dinner in Dubai.
Menu Highlights:
- Cunard Afternoon Tea: Freshly baked pastries and cold bites.
- Britannia Afternoon Tea: A mix of hot/cold canapés and pastries.
- Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available on request.
Must-Try:
Treat yourself to the Cunard or Britannia Afternoon Tea paired with fine teas or a glass of champagne for a luxurious experience.
Timings & Price:
- Afternoon Tea:
- Cunard: AED 155 (Adults), AED 100 (Children 8–11 years)
- Britannia: AED 199 (Adults), AED 125 (Children 8–11 years)
- Timing: 03:00 PM – 06:30 PM (Last seating at 05:00 PM)
- Average Dinner Cost: AED 760 for two
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Age Requirement: Guests aged 8 years and above.
Enjoy a vibrant, first-class dining experience that combines historic charm with Dubai’s modern culinary flair.
3. The Golden Lion: Classic English Pub:
Experience:
Step into Dubai’s oldest pub, The Golden Lion, and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with plush red chairs and green décor. It’s the perfect spot for live sports, refreshing drinks, and traditional British pub classics.
Menu Highlights:
- Chicken Caesar
- Mediterranean Salad
- Crispy Chicken Tenders with BBQ Sauce
- QE2 Wagyu Cheeseburgers
- Fried Calamari with Garlic Mayo
Pair your meal with their selection of wines, soft drinks, fresh juices, cocktails, or mocktails.
Must-Try:
Indulge in the classic Fish and Chips or comforting Cottage Pie, paired with a pint of refreshing beer.
Golden Hours:
- Timings: 04:00 PM – 08:00 PM
- Offer: 50% discount on selected beverages
Timings & Price:
- Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Cost: AED 410 (Average for two), AED 45 for a pint of beer
Additional Information:
- Age Restriction: 21 years and above only
- Venue Policy: Smoking allowed
4. The Pavilion: Outdoor Lounge and Dining
Experience:
Relax under the stars at The Pavilion, a charming outdoor lounge on the lower aft deck of the QE2. Enjoy shisha with friends, savour international cuisine, and take in stunning views of the Mina Rashid Yacht Club and Dubai’s skyline.
Menu Highlights:
- A variety of flavorful shisha options
- Wines, spirits, beers, and cocktails
- Calamari, Chicken and Seafood Paella
Must-Try:
Pair your shisha with a refreshing cocktail while admiring Dubai’s breathtaking skyline.
Timings:
- Sunday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Additional Information:
- Dress Code: Smart Casual
- Atmosphere: Poolside bar vibes with a relaxing, open-air ambience
5. The Chart Room: Nautical Charm
Experience:
Located on the Quarter Deck, The Chart Room is a beloved spot on the QE2, offering a time capsule of its nautical past. With its original glass route map and maritime interiors intact, this venue is perfect for unwinding with a selection of beverages or indulging in the special afternoon tea experience.
Menu Highlights:
- Tiered stand of carefully cut sandwiches and miniature cakes
- Favourites:
- Cucumber cream cheese sandwiches
- Smoked salmon bites
- Roast chicken with Pommery mustard
- Egg mayo with watercress
- Delicate macarons
- Freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam
Must-Try:
Don’t miss the cucumber cream cheese sandwiches and the sweet, crumbly macarons. Pair them with a warm cup of tea for a classic experience.
Timings:
- Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Beverages Only)
- Afternoon Tea Special: Served on the Quarter Deck with views of the Dubai skyline and Burj Khalifa
Additional Information:
- Smoking Policy: No Smoking Venue
- Ambience: Nostalgic, with clinking china and scenic views of the docks
- Service: A bit relaxed but adds to the charm of this retro experience
6. Britannia Restaurant: Grand Dining in Art Deco Elegance
Experience:
As the flagship dining venue aboard the QE2, Britannia Restaurant offers a sophisticated Art Deco-style ambience. The grand dining hall, adorned with sparkling chandeliers, polished wood accents, and pristine white linens, creates a timeless and elegant setting for every meal.
Menu Highlights:
- Succulent seafood dishes
- Perfectly grilled steaks
- Desserts crafted to perfection
Must-Try:
The perfectly grilled Angus steak paired with a dessert of your choice.
Timings: 6.30 pm and 9.00 pm
Dress Code:
Smart casual attire is recommended.
2. Events and Hosted on Queen Elizabeth 2:
The Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment for its visitors. Whether you are a history buff, a theatre enthusiast, or just looking for a leisurely experience, the QE2 has something for everyone.
Here are some of the best activities to enjoy aboard the iconic vessel:
1. Heritage Tour
Experience:
Step back in time and discover the rich history of the QE2 through the Heritage Tour. This tour offers a fascinating glimpse into life aboard the iconic ship during its prime. Curated by exhibition experts, the tour showcases a variety of historic artifacts, original artworks, and faithfully recreated rooms, including an authentic passenger cabin, the captain’s quarters, and an original garage that houses a vintage Rolls Royce. Guests will also be guided by a digital guide, which helps navigate the ship and offers historical context along the way.
Highlights:
- Explore the Special Relationship Display and Travellers Cove, once home to the first Harrods outside of Knightsbridge.
- View an impressive collection of objects, books, and historical drawings.
- Visit the Captain’s Bridge for a scenic view of Dubai.
- Experience the luxury of the QE2’s past with iconic memorabilia and objects from over five decades of sailing.
Timings:
- Daily at 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Dress Code:
- Comfortable attire suitable for walking and exploring the ship.
Price:
- AED 85 per person.
Pre-booking:
- Pre-booking is advisable, but walk-ins will be accepted based on availability.
2. Travellers Cove
Experience:
Travellers Cove is a museum dedicated to the history of the QE2, showcasing its journey from construction in 1967 to its final voyage in 2008. It is an excellent opportunity to explore the legendary ship’s past, especially for those interested in maritime history and design. The museum offers visitors rare memorabilia and exhibits that highlight the rich heritage of the QE2, from original artifacts to historical photographs.
Highlights:
- Discover the ship’s story from its construction to its retirement.
- View historical memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts from the QE2’s illustrious career.
- Learn about the passengers who sailed aboard the QE2, including famous names like Her Majesty The Queen and Nelson Mandela.
Timings:
- Open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Dress Code:
- Casual attire.
Price:
- Free admission for all visitors.
3. Theatre by QE2
Experience:
Great entertainment is at the heart of the QE2, and The Theatre by QE2 offers world-class performances in a plush, intimate setting. With its original plush seating, the theatre can accommodate up to 515 guests, making it the perfect venue for a wide range of events, from press conferences and private shows to business gatherings. Guests can enjoy a drink or snack during the performance at the Crystal Bar, which serves a wide selection of beverages. Bespoke performances can be arranged by Outside The Box Events, making it an ideal space for special occasions.
Highlights:
- Watch a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and live shows.
- Experience the theatre’s historic charm with authentic seats and atmosphere.
- Enjoy drinks and snacks from the licensed Crystal Bar before, during, and after performances.
- Special performances can be customized through Outside The Box Events.
Timings:
- Show timings vary. Please check the schedule for specific performances.
Dress Code:
- Smart casual or formal attire is recommended.
Price:
- Prices vary depending on the event and performance.
3. Spa:
The QE2 Spa in Dubai offers a perfect place to relax and unwind. Located on Deck 1, this spa combines the ship’s rich history with modern relaxation treatments. It’s a great spot for those looking to escape and recharge during their stay.
About the Spa:
The QE2 Spa provides a wide range of treatments, including massages like Balinese and Thai, as well as signature facials. Some of the must-try treatments are the Four Hands Wave Massage, which gives a truly relaxing experience, and the luxurious Babor facials that focus on skincare. The experienced therapists make sure you feel pampered throughout your visit.
Must Try:
- Four Hands Wave Massage: A special massage performed by two therapists at the same time. It’s designed to help you completely relax.
- Babor Facials: Known for their skin benefits, these facials help rejuvenate and refresh your skin.
Experience:
The spa offers a peaceful atmosphere that blends traditional maritime charm with modern wellness. It’s a great spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a quiet, calming experience. The treatments are all customized to suit your needs, whether you’re looking to de-stress or improve your skin.
Timings:
- The spa is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- It’s a good idea to book your appointment in advance to ensure availability.
4. Gym & Swimming Pool
For those who like to stay active, the QE2 offers excellent fitness facilities. The state-of-the-art gym is equipped with TechnoGym® cardio machines, free weights, and a stretching area, catering to all your workout needs. Whether you’re looking to get your heart rate up with some cardio or focus on strength training, the gym has everything you need to stay fit during your stay.
After your workout, head over to the nine-meter indoor swimming pool, perfect for those who want to swim a few laps or just relax by the water. The pool’s serene atmosphere makes it a great spot to cool down and unwind after a workout session.
Timings:
The gym and swimming pool are open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Whether you’re an early riser or prefer working out in the afternoon, these facilities are available to help you maintain your fitness routine.
Dress Code:
For the gym, wear comfortable workout clothes and shoes. When using the swimming pool, appropriate swimwear is required.
Accommodations:
The QE2 Dubai offers a range of rooms and suites that reflect the diverse guests it has hosted over the years, from sea-cruising enthusiasts and families to the rich, famous, and even royalty. Each room is lovingly restored to capture the splendor of the ship’s glorious sailing days, while seamlessly incorporating modern comforts to fit into the contemporary surroundings.
Classic Room:
For those seeking an authentic cruise-ship cabin experience, the Classic Room is perfect. These rooms feature original porthole windows that offer views of either the Arabian Gulf or the iconic Dubai skyline. With modern amenities like a King-size bed, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower, it’s an ideal retreat for anyone wanting to experience the classic QE2 ambiance.
Price: 400 AED per night
Superior Room:
If you’re looking for a bit more space while still enjoying the charm of the QE2, the Superior Room is the ideal choice. With original porthole windows that offer either sea or city views, these rooms provide a comfortable setting with a King-size bed, modern amenities, and a spacious feel.
Price: 500 AED per night
Deluxe Room:
The Deluxe Room offers extra comfort and space, featuring a sitting area for relaxation. These rooms come with three original porthole windows offering sea or city views, blending light and space with luxury touches for a home-like atmosphere.
Price: 600 AED per night
Captain’s Room:
Located on the Sun Deck, the Captain’s Room boasts a blend of modern amenities and British heritage. These rooms feature restored furniture and fittings, as well as a luxurious marble bathroom with walk-in showers and double sinks. With natural light and high-quality amenities, it provides a taste of the luxury once enjoyed by the ship’s most esteemed passengers. Price: 900 AED per night
Captain’s Room with Balcony:
For a truly special experience, the Captain’s Room with Balcony offers floor-to-ceiling sliding doors leading to a private balcony with breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf. Relax on the comfortable wooden deck, and enjoy a front-row spectacle of the city’s iconic vistas.
Price: 1,200 AED per night
Officer’s Room:
The Officer’s Room offers affordable luxury with sea or city views through large windows. Located in the former first-class quarters, it features a comfortable living space with modern amenities, making it a functional and relaxed environment for guests.
Price: 700 AED per night
Junior Suite:
Ideal for families, the Junior Suite features a separate living area with a sofa bed. It offers plenty of space for relaxation and exploration, with all the comforts of home on board, making it a great choice for those with children.
Price: 1,500 AED per night
Officer’s Suite:
This suite provides a separate living area, desk space, large bathroom, bedroom, and sofa bed, offering an elegant and functional environment to unwind, work, and sleep. With ample space and a unique nautical theme, it’s perfect for guests who desire a sophisticated experience.
Price: 1,800 AED per night
Duplex Suite:
Spanning 76m² across two floors, the Duplex Suite is one of the most luxurious on the ship. With large windows, two balconies, and a large separate sitting room, this extravagant suite offers a complete sense of comfort and style.
Price: 3,000 AED per night
Royal Suite:
Once reserved for royalty, the Royal Suite is the epitome of luxury. Featuring spacious living quarters, a magnificent mezzanine level, a conservatory, and a large private veranda, these suites offer breathtaking views and unparalleled comfort. The two Royal Suites, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary, deliver a truly royal experience. Price: 5,000 AED per night
Visitor Information
Check-In and Check-Out Time:
- Check-In Time: 3:00 PM
- Check-Out Time: 12:00 PM (noon)
Location
- Address: Queen Elizabeth 2, Port Rashid, Dubai, UAE
Getting There
- The QE2 is close to popular Dubai attractions like:
- Burj Khalifa
- Dubai World Trade Centre
- The Dubai Mall
- The nearest metro station: Metro M2 lineat Mina Rashid.
- Bus routes to nearby bus stops:
- C1
- X92
- Other nearby stations:
- Falcon Intersection
- Raffa
- Al Ghubaiba
Price Per Night
- The price per night at the Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel varies depending on the room type and season.
- Typically, room rates range from $150 to $500 per night, with rates subject to change based on availability and time of year.
Conclusion:
The QE2 offers a unique and unforgettable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. With its rich history, luxurious amenities, and tranquil atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind and make lasting memories. A stay here promises a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit the Queen Elizabeth 2 without booking a cruise?
Yes, you can visit the Queen Elizabeth 2 without booking a cruise. The ship is now a floating hotel and museum, open to the public for dining, tours, and other experiences.
What amenities are available on the ship?
The QE2 offers various amenities including luxurious rooms and suites, a state-of-the-art gym, an indoor swimming pool, multiple dining options, a library, a theatre, and wellness services like a spa and hair salon.
Are there guided tours on the ship?
Yes, there are guided tours available, including the Heritage Tour, where guests can explore the ship’s rich history and iconic spaces. It’s recommended to pre-book the tours.