"Queen Elizabeth 2": From Luxury Liner to Hotel Ship - The QE2’s grand rebirth as a floating luxury hotel in Dubai
The legendary Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2), once a transatlantic icon, has found a new life as a floating hotel in Dubai. Built in Scotland in 1976 and christened by Queen Elizabeth II, the ship now sits docked at Port Rashid, offering guests a unique blend of maritime history and luxury.
The QE2 spent decades as a celebrated ocean liner, completing over 800 Atlantic crossings and carrying 2.5 million passengers. Its final voyage took place in 2008, before it was towed to Dubai in 2015 for a major transformation. Extensive refurbishments removed asbestos and lifeboats, while the number of cabins was reduced by half to create more spacious accommodations.
Today, the ship operates as an elegant hotel managed by the French Accor group, with nightly rates starting around €250. Public areas like the Midship Lobby and Chart Room Bar still reflect the vessel’s vintage charm. Visitors can explore parts of the QE2 for free, even without staying overnight. Conveniently located near Al Ghubaiba metro station, the hotel serves as a refined base for discovering Dubai’s historic waterfront. It also offers a stylish stopover option for travellers before or after a cruise.
The QE2 now combines its storied past with modern hospitality in Dubai. Open to both guests and visitors, the ship remains a symbol of maritime elegance. Its prime location and preserved interiors continue to attract those seeking a taste of classic ocean travel.
