Between steering one of the world’s fastest-growing cities, overseeing thoroughbred stables and squeezing in the occasional poetry collection, Dubai’s royal family still somehow finds time to escape. Their holidays, though, tend to look slightly rather different from everyone else’s – when home is a palace, only the world’s most exceptional hotels will do. Over the years, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum – Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai – along with his falcon-flying, horseback-riding, scuba-diving son, Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan, have offered glimpses into their travels through social media posts and official appearances, revealing a varied collection of favourite hotels. From ultra-exclusive islands in the Maldives to secret Arctic wilderness retreats and snow-blanketed ski resorts, these are the luxury hotels trusted by Dubai’s royal family. Everything here is completely bespoke – there are no menus or prices – and guests have access to a Bond-worthy arsenal of snowmobiles, cross-country skis, sledges and ice buggies.