The glamorous city of Dubai is not subtle. This glitzy modern metropolis of “biggests”, “bests”, and “tallests” is where the rich, famous, and not-so-famous flock to spend big. Dubai has grown from a stopover between East and West to a destination with five-star hotels, bottomless breakfasts, and year-round sunlight.

Dubai villas are the place to go for stately splendor, not penthouse parties. Celebrities and gold and marble villas with private beaches and infinity pools are common on Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island. Other gated villa communities in Al Sufouh and Emirates Hills evoke Beverly Hills exclusivity.

Private Villa—The Palm, Palm Jumeirah

This five-bedroom, five-bathroom house captures the majesty of the Palm Jumeirah, a tourist hotspot. Fluorescent yellow sofas and geometric details distinguish this Palm home from others, which have floor-to-ceiling windows that frame sea views, a green garden with a terrace, private beach, and private pool.

Luxury Ocean Pearl Villa, Palm Jumeirah

Another property in Dubai’s most elite postcode, this airy beachfront home has four double bedrooms and four bathrooms decorated in neutral tones with aquamarine accents and all the Palm amenities (pool, private beach, space). Enjoy the nicest views in the house from the master bedroom’s chaise framed by bay windows or second-floor balcony. The beach is just from your front door, so spend your days sunning and admiring the houses on the next frond.

Skyline View Villa, Bulgari Hotel, Jumeirah Bay Island, 2 bedrooms

The Bulgari Resort, one of Dubai’s most luxurious, has understated luxury villas. The stone-colored interior boasts a large open-plan living space, full-sized bar, hardwood outdoor deck, plunge pool, and a butler for anything else. The city’s skyline is best seen at night, but the Arabian Gulf is quieter than the Palm and Dubai Marina, so you can enjoy the wraparound views any time of day.

Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, Madinat

This Arabian-inspired hotel is connected to one of Dubai’s hottest buildings but feels far from the city. The 29 Jumeirah villas overlook the Madinat Jumeirah’s twisting waterways and the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab. You’ll arrive by abra, a traditional boat you can take to go to dinner. The seven Malakiya villas have plunge pools, full kitchens, and private verandas. Free admission to Wild Wadi Waterpark is great for kids.