Travel insider Jürgen Linnenbürger returns to the UAE, discovering an off-the-beaten-path emirate with a resort and golf course that truly impress.
A Quiet Gem
Ajman is the smallest of the seven United Arab Emirates. Oil wealth or grand superlatives are not what you find here. And therein lies its charm – it captivates with tranquility, vastness, nature, and a golfing experience rarely expected in the Emirates.
Our journey to the UAE begins with the usual evening flight from Düsseldorf to Dubai. Emirates brings us nonstop overnight to our destination. Shortly before departure, we took advantage of an attractive upgrade offer and enjoyed the A380 at its best: an excellent meal, a seat that converts into a two-meter-long bed, and the legendary bar at the rear of the cabin. A cocktail, a short sleep, and a brief dream of sun, beach, and lush fairways made the 6.5-hour flight and three-hour time difference effortless.
Entry into Dubai and car rental pick-up went smoothly. Within an hour after landing, we were cruising northward on the multi-lane highway at a maximum of 120 km/h. Friday morning – comparable to Sunday in the Emirates – meant little traffic and a relaxed ride. After nearly 40 minutes, we reached our destination: the five-star Al Zorah Beach Resort in Ajman.
Understated Luxury
The terraced five-star resort is nestled in an extensive natural area with direct sea access. The architecture features clean lines, glass, wood, and metal. Between them lie pools, gardens, and retreats that evoke an oasis feeling. Everything is open, transparent, and airy.
On the ground floor are the impressive lobby, the Library Lounge, and the centrally located, light-filled main restaurant Vinesse.
Accommodation options range from spacious rooms and suites to exclusive villas with private pools. Prices vary seasonally, from about 350 to 450 euros per night for rooms and suites, with villas starting at around 1,500 euros. Not a bargain, but a balanced ratio of value, location, and atmosphere.
Our Premier Ocean View Room with private terrace impressed us immediately. Located on the second floor, it offers ample space. Warm tones, clear lines, and subtle accents create a light and unobtrusive ambiance. The large bathroom with distinctive tiles and a transparent, darkenable glass wall to the living area underscores the modern style.
Below us, dense foliage surrounds the pool, which at 85 meters sets a record length for resorts. The Poolside Lounge offers light dishes and refreshing drinks. Through the palm trees of the well-kept gardens, the turquoise sea glimmers occasionally, especially enchanting at dusk.
On the terrace of the main restaurant Vinesse, we start our day with a breakfast that leaves nothing to be desired, offered both buffet and à la carte. In the evening, the restaurant impresses with tasteful Mediterranean, Arabic, and Asian dishes. We especially enjoyed the multi-course Indian Thali menu, whose spiciness took some getting used to. The atmosphere is sportily elegant and the interior modern.
Below the buildings, the villas with private pools stretch down to