Travel insider Jürgen Linnenbürger explores the lesser-known Emirate of Ajman, discovering a resort and golf course that impress sustainably.
A Quiet Jewel
Ajman is the smallest of the seven United Arab Emirates. It lacks oil wealth or superlatives, which is exactly its charm. It captivates with tranquility, vastness, nature, and a golfing experience hardly expected in the Emirates.
Our journey to the UAE begins with a reliable evening flight from Düsseldorf to Dubai. Emirates takes us nonstop overnight to our destination. Just before departure, we take advantage of an attractive upgrade offer and experience the A380 in its best form: an excellent menu, a seat that transforms into a two-meter-long bed, and the legendary bar at the rear cabin. A cocktail, a short sleep, and a brief dream of sun, beach, and lush fairways ensure the 6.5-hour flight and three-hour time difference don’t affect us.
Arrival in Dubai is smooth, as is the rental car pickup. Just an hour after landing, we are driving at up to 120 km/h on the multi-lane highway northwards. 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
The terraced five-star resort nestles within an extensive natural area with direct sea access. The architecture features clear lines, glass, wood, and metal. Pools, gardens, and secluded spots in between create an oasis-like feel. Everything is open, transparent, and airy.
On the ground floor, you’ll find the impressive lobby, the library lounge, and the centrally located, light-flooded main restaurant Vinesse.
Accommodation options range from spacious rooms and suites to exclusive villas with private pools. Prices vary seasonally between approximately 350 and 450 euros per night for rooms and suites, with villas starting around 1,500 euros. Not a bargain but offers a balanced ratio of service, location, and atmosphere.
Our Premier Ocean View Room with a private terrace impresses at first sight. Located on the second floor, it offers ample space with warm tones, clean lines, and subtle accents; nothing is overloaded—everything feels light and unobtrusive. The large bathroom with distinctive tiles and a transparent, darkenable glass front to the living area underscores the modern style.
Below us, through dense foliage, we see the pool, boasting a record-breaking 85 meters length for a resort pool. The poolside lounge offers light meals and refreshing drinks. Occasionally, the turquoise sea gleams through palm trees in the manicured gardens, especially charming in the evening light.
On Vinesse’s terrace, we start our day with a breakfast buffet and à la carte choices that leave nothing to be desired. In the evening, the restaurant delights with tasteful Mediterranean, Arabic, and Asian dishes. We particularly enjoy the multi-course Indian Thali menu, which takes some getting used to due to its spiciness. The atmosphere is sporty elegant, and the interior modern.
Below these buildings, villas extend, some with private pools