New Openings In Ras Al Khaimah, The UAE’s Booming Beach Hotspot

28.03.2024 - 20:23 / forbes.com / Ras Al-Khaimah / Mina Al-Arab

While most people are familiar with Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, Ras Al Khaimah is fast claiming its place as one of the top tourist destinations in the UAE.

So, what is new in the nature and adventure Emirates, and what can visitors look forward to in the next few years?

The original beach hotel in Ras Al Khaimah, the Waldorf Astoria hotel, has just completed a multi-million dollar refurbishment and reopened after six months of closure.

A warm welcome greets guests as they enter the hotel, from the falconer and his bird of prey that frequent the lobby to the traditional Arabic coffee and dates in a beautiful box that are offered at check-in. The lobby still has the stunning traditional Waldorf centerpiece of the six-meter free-standing clock with its domed glass dial and striking aquamarine center.

Even the smallest guests are made to feel welcome with a junior check-in, and a dedicated children's club, as well as the resort’s unique concierge program, Little Hotelier.

Major changes have occurred elsewhere. Rooms have been refreshed with modern, soothing tones of turquoise and cream, which seem to reflect the beach and Arabian Gulf right outside. The Junior Suites are a great choice of room, being spacious with a large living area, dressing room, and separate bath and shower. The shaped arches and mirrors, with their Arabic influences, give the decor a sense of place, and a wide terrace allows the guest to take in the views of the expansive beach and pools below.

The restaurants have also been given a makeover with a new bar area at Lexington Bar and Grill alongside a meat storage area that allows diners to see the tempting selection of dry-aged cuts of beef as they enter.

The Japanese restaurant Umi has a sushi bar, live Teppanyaki grill, and one of the biggest sake collections in the UAE. If you are looking for a special experience, try the grade A Wagyu beef, presented over charcoal for an authentic flavour.

The poolside Azure has a distinctly breezy Mediterranean beach vibe to its decor and offers a large outdoor terrace to enjoy classic Italian dishes such as beef carpaccio or herb crusted lamb.

The adults only Sunset pool has also been given a makeover with the new daybeds and bar area giving it Ibiza vibes.

For something very in keeping with Ras Al Khaimah’s claim to be the nature Emirate, the Anantara Mina Al Arab offers the Emirate's first over-water bungalows, with many overlooking the mangroves. A haven for birds and wildlife, relaxing on the terrace’s daybed and listening to the birdsong is the perfect way to wind down from a busy life. Golf buggs ferry guests from the striking The terraces are also very private from the other villas here.

The villas also come with