Travel insider Jürgen Linnenbürger returns to the UAE, exploring Ajman and discovering a resort and golf course that truly impress.
A Hidden Gem
Ajman is the smallest of the seven United Arab Emirates. It lacks the oil wealth or superlatives found elsewhere but captivates with tranquility, vast nature, and a golfing experience rarely expected in the Emirates.
Our journey began with a reliable overnight flight from Düsseldorf to Dubai with Emirates, experiencing the A380 with excellent cuisine, a fully reclining seat turning into a two-meter bed, and the legendary bar at the rear cabin. A cocktail, short rest, and dreams of sun, beach, and lush fairways made the 6 ½ hour flight and three-hour time difference effortless.
Entry into Dubai was smooth, as was taking the rental car. An hour after landing, we drove north at up to 120 km/h on the multilane highway. Friday morning, equivalent to Sunday in the Emirates, meant light traffic and a relaxed drive. In just under 40 minutes, we arrived at the five-star Al Zorah Beach Resort in Ajman.
Discreet Luxury at Al Zorah Beach Resort
This terraced five-star resort is nestled within a broad natural area with direct sea access. Its architecture features clear lines, glass, wood, and metal, complemented by pools, gardens, and secluded spots that create an oasis feel. The atmosphere is open, transparent, and airy.
On the ground floor, you’ll find the impressive lobby, Library Lounge, and centrally located, light-flooded main restaurant, Vinesse.
Accommodation ranges from spacious rooms and suites to exclusive villas with private pools. Prices vary seasonally from approximately 350 to 450 euros per night for rooms and suites, while villas start around 1,500 euros. Not cheap, but a fitting balance of quality, location, and ambiance.
Our Premier Ocean View Room with a private terrace impressed immediately. Located on the second floor, it offers ample space, warm tones, neat lines, and subtle accents, all understated and light. The large bathroom with distinct tiles and a transparent, dimmable glass wall to the living area underscores the modern design.
Below, through dense vegetation, we overlooked the resort’s pool — with a record-breaking length of 85 meters — featuring the Poolside Lounge serving light meals and refreshing drinks. Turquoise sea glimpses shimmer between palm trees in manicured gardens, especially enchanting in evening lighting.
We started our days on the main restaurant Vinesse’s terrace with an all-you-can-eat and à la carte breakfast that left nothing to wish for. Evenings offered tasteful Mediterranean, Arabic, and Asian dishes, with the multi-course Indian Thali menu being a highlight, though its spiciness took some getting used to. The ambiance is sporty elegant and modern.
Down near the beach sit the villas, some with their own pools, adjacent to the second main restaurant, Aquario, specializing in refined fish and seafood. In January, we preferred its stylish indoor area, though outdoor seating promises spectacular sunsets over the sea with sundowners.
The private, bright white beach invites leisurely walks, sunbathing on comfortable loung