A switched-on hotel in Dubai

• Image Credit: Vida Downtown Dubai
• Vida Downtown Dubai is the first hotel in the UAE to use InnSpire which allows the guests to make use of all the hotel's services through their smartphone or tablet

From funky tables that turn into interactive touch screens to in-room tablets that double as hotel room keys and controls for lights and temperature, the era of Jetsons-esque travel is already here.

But let’s face it. Beyond a few nods of approval at the concierge, the novelty often quickly wears out. Or, if you aren’t really part of the gadget set, you probably have given up trying to figure out your room’s technological amenities.

One hotel in Dubai wants to change all that by giving you, the guest, the power to future-forward your hotel room right from your device — meaning your smartphone or tablet becomes the control board for all the stuff you need. You can order room service, book your laundry, buy gifts, speak to a concierge or pick up an e-newspaper, all from your device.

And all this without the need to ever download an app.

At Vida Downtown Dubai, it all begins at check-in, where a guest relations representative politely sits you down at the lobby, flashing an iPad (it’s only a coincidence that the V in Vida on their suit lapels looks like an inverted Star Trek logo). Once the ice is broken and after ascertaining that you’re comfortable, your check-in begins right there, via the iPad. No more standing at the desk.