Travel insider Jürgen Linnenbürger heads once again to the UAE, discovering a resort and golf course that impress beyond the usual hotspots.
A Quiet Gem
Ajman is the smallest of the seven United Arab Emirates. It offers no oil wealth or superlatives, and that is precisely its charm. It captivates with tranquility, open spaces, nature, and a golfing experience rarely expected in the Emirates.
Our journey to the UAE begins with the reliable overnight flight from Düsseldorf to Dubai. Emirates brings us nonstop to our destination. Shortly before departure, we take advantage of an attractive upgrade and experience the A380 at its best: an excellent menu, 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 quick dream of sun, beach, and lush fairways make the 6 1/2 hour flight and the three-hour time difference effortless.
Entry into Dubai goes smoothly, as does picking up our rental car. Just an hour after landing, we drive at up to 120 km/h on the multilane highway northbound. Friday morning – the Emirati equivalent of a Sunday – means light traffic and a relaxed drive. After about 40 minutes, we reach our destination: the five-star Al Zorah Beach Resort in Ajman.
Unobtrusive Luxury
The terraced five-star resort nestles within a vast natural area with direct sea access. The architecture features clean lines, glass, wood, and metal. Between buildings lie pools, gardens, and retreats that create an oasis feeling. Everything feels 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 depending on the season, approximately 350 to 450 euros per night for rooms and suites, while villas start around 1,500 euros. Not a bargain, but a balanced ratio of performance, location, and atmosphere.
Our Premier Ocean View Room with a private terrace impresses us from the first moment. Located on the second floor, it offers ample space with warm tones, clean lines, and subtle accents: nothing is overloaded, everything is light and understated. The spacious bathroom with distinctive tiles and a transparent, darkenable glass wall to the living area underscores the modern design.
Below us, through dense vegetation, we see the pool — with 85 meters, a record length for resorts. The Poolside Lounge serves light dishes and refreshing drinks. Occasionally, the turquoise sea shimmers through the palm trees of the well-maintained gardens, particularly charming in the evening lighting.
On the terrace of the main restaurant Vinesse, we start our day with breakfast leaving nothing to be desired—offered as a buffet and à la carte. In the evening, the restaurant impresses with tasteful Mediterranean, Arabic, and Asian dishes. We are especially fond of the multi-course Indian Thali menu, whose spiciness takes some getting used to. The atmosphere is sporty-elegant, the interior modern.
Below these buildings, villas with private