Travel insider Jürgen Linnenbürger returns to the United Arab Emirates, this time focusing on an emirate off the beaten track, discovering a resort and a golf course that truly impress.
A Quiet Gem
Ajman is the smallest of the seven United Arab Emirates. It lacks oil wealth or grand superlatives, and that is precisely 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 reliable evening flight from Düsseldorf to Dubai. Emirates takes us nonstop overnight to our destination. Just before departure, we seize an attractive upgrade offer to experience the A380 at its finest: an excellent menu, a seat that transforms into a two-meter-long bed, and the legendary bar in the rear cabin area. A cocktail, a short sleep, and a brief dream of sun, beach, and lush fairways make the 6½-hour flight and the three-hour time difference easy to manage.
Entry into Dubai proceeds smoothly, as does the car rental. One hour after landing, we drive north on the multi-lane highway at up to 120 km/h. Friday morning—comparable to Sunday in the Emirates—means little traffic and a relaxed drive. After just under 40 minutes, we reach our destination: the five-star Al Zorah Beach Resort in Ajman.
Understated Luxury at Al Zorah Beach Resort
This terraced five-star resort is set within a vast natural area with direct access to the sea. The architecture features clean lines, glass, wood, and metal. Pools, gardens, and retreats nestled between the buildings create an oasis atmosphere. Everything feels open, transparent, and airy.
On the ground floor are an impressive lobby, the Library Lounge, and the central, light-filled main restaurant, Vinesse.
Accommodation options range from spacious rooms and suites to exclusive villas with private pools. Prices vary seasonally, approximately 350 to 450 euros per night for rooms and suites, with villas starting around 1,500 euros. Not a bargain, but a well-balanced ratio of services, location, and ambiance.
Our Premier Ocean View Room with a private terrace impresses from the first moment. Located on the second floor, it offers ample space. Warm tones, clear lines, and subtle accents ensure nothing feels overwhelming—just light and unobtrusive. The large bathroom with distinctive tiles and a transparent, dimmable glass wall to the living area emphasizes the modern style.
Below, through dense foliage, we see the pool, a record-breaking 85 meters long for a resort pool. The Poolside Lounge offers light dishes and refreshing drinks. Occasionally, the turquoise sea shimmers through palms in the well-maintained gardens. Especially enchanting in evening lighting.
The main restaurant terrace starts our day with a breakfast that leaves nothing to be desired, with buffet and à la carte options. In the evening, Vinesse impresses with tasteful Mediterranean, Arabic, and Asian dishes. We particularly enjoy the multi-course Indian Thali menu, whose spiciness takes some getting used to. The atmosphere is sporty yet elegant, with modern interiors.
Below the main buildings, villas