Travel insider Jürgen Linnenbürger visits the United Arab Emirates, discovering a resort and golf course in Ajman that truly impress.
A Hidden Gem
Ajman is the smallest of the seven United Arab Emirates, lacking oil wealth or grand superlatives. This calm and natural setting offers a golfing experience rarely expected in the Emirates.
Our journey starts with a reliable evening flight from Düsseldorf to Dubai, traveling nonstop overnight with Emirates. Just before departure, we upgraded to enjoy the A380’s best features, including a fine menu, a seat that converts into a two-meter-long bed, and the iconic bar in the rear cabin. A cocktail, a short sleep, and a daydream of sun, beach, and lush fairways follow, making the 6.5-hour flight and three-hour time difference effortless.
Entry in Dubai goes smoothly, and after picking up a rental car, we drive the multi-lane highway north at up to 120 km/h. Friday morning—comparable to a Sunday here—means light traffic and a relaxed ride. After about 40 minutes, we arrive at the five-star Al Zorah Beach Resort in Ajman.
Understated Luxury
This terraced five-star resort nestles within extensive natural surroundings with direct sea access. Its architecture employs clear lines, glass, wood, and metal, interspersed with pools, gardens, and retreats evoking an oasis atmosphere. Everything feels open, transparent, and airy.
At ground level are the impressive lobby, library lounge, and the centrally located, light-flooded main restaurant Vinesse.
Accommodation ranges from spacious rooms and suites to exclusive villas with private pools. Prices vary seasonally, roughly 350 to 450 euros per night for rooms and suites, with villas starting around 1,500 euros. While not cheap, the value aligns well with quality, location, and ambiance.
Our Premier Ocean View Room with private terrace impressed us immediately. Situated on the second floor, it offers ample space, warm tones, clear lines, and subtle accents—none overpowering but all light and unobtrusive. The large bathroom features distinctive tiles and a transparent, darkenable glass wall to the living area, highlighting modern design.
Below, dense plantings surround a pool measuring 85 meters in length, a record among resorts. The Poolside Lounge serves light dishes and refreshing drinks. Turquoise sea glimpses through garden palms add beauty, especially under evening lights.
Breakfast on the Vinesse restaurant terrace leaves nothing desired, with buffet and à la carte options. Evenings bring tasteful Mediterranean, Arabic, and Asian cuisine, with the multi-course Indian Thali menu standing out for its spicy challenge. The setting is sporty elegant, the interior modern.
Below these buildings, villas with private pools stretch to the beach, home to the second main restaurant, Aquario. Here, fine fish and seafood dishes are enjoyed. In January, we preferred its stylish indoor seating, although outdoor spots hint at spectacular sunset views over the sea.
The private, radiant white beach invites strolls or sunbathing on comfortable loungers and cabanas.