Review: Rixos Bab Al Bahr, Al Marjan, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

Inspired by the ambitions of Egypt’s Great Pyramids, Rixos Bab Al Bahr thinks big. This 715-key, 5-star resort is situated by a shallow Persian Gulf lagoon in the quiet Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. Built on Ras’ first manmade island of Al Marjan, the resort incorporates the Arabic architecture of the traditional wind-catching Barajeel towers.

On first impressions, the grand marble pillars of reception with its ornate friezes and elaborate flower displays seems like the ultimate grandiose palace. But beyond the crystal chandelier, beyond the violinist playing the grand piano, everyone’s having fun in the sun.

Ras Al Khaimah, translating as “head of the tent” may be Dubai’s quieter, less blingy cousin, but the huge grounds of the Rixos could claim to be another Emirate of fun in its own right: 8 swimming pools, 7 bars, 7 restaurants, 2 showcase stages, basketball and tennis courts, gym, spa, jungle gym.  Plus, there’s a souk leading down to the five a la carte restaurants on the waterfront.

With kids club, teen room, playground, watersports on the clear-water lagoon and back-to-back evening shows, this is a resort that dares any child to utter the infamous phrase, “I’m bored”. And if they are, the hotel is the gateway to an Emirate that is the United Arab Emirates’ capital of adventure.

Rixos Bab Al Bahr does its very best to counter the old adage, “You can’t please all of the people, all of the time.” Couples head for the serene adults only infinity pool away from the Beach Club beat, find a quiet spot in the Mojito bar, and enjoy sophisticated meals in the a la carte restaurants.

The welcome

As our taxi swings past the fountain to park, two porters whisk away our luggage and guides us into a palatially grand lobby.

After the formalities of check-in, another porter guides us and luggage to our room.

The room

Our premium room has views, from a large balcony hosting both sun loungers plus table and chairs, across the Persian Gulf; perfect for taking photos of palm trees silhouetted against the setting blood orange sun.

A king-size bed in the dual aspect room, shares the views. The spacious room ticks every box for five-star luxury: tea and coffee beverage point, refrigerated mini-bar, wall-mounted television, hair-dryer, strong WiFi, dressing gown and slippers.

The bathroom

Even though there would be enough space to park my car in the bathroom, there’s only an oversize rainfall shower; no bath.

As well as ample storage space around the well-lit wash basin there is an exceptionally useful unit of drawers.

The facilities

It seems that buffet restaurant Seven Heights has everything on offer for breakfast, lunch and dinner; except for pork sausages. Remember this is the United Arab Emirates and beef sausages rule

Every evening there is a theme night: Ottoman delights, Tuscan, Seafood, Asian, Surf and Turf, Global, Flavours of the Desert.

Even if you’re missing the pork sausages, alcohol is readily available with meals and at the bars scattered around the palm tree and bougainvillea dotted landscape. Countless sofas positioned by the Isla bar for watching the evening’s shows, big screens at the Sports Hub whilst the Mojito has a wide range of cocktails and mocktails. At the adults only Infinity bar there’s a quieter, more mellow vibe.

After the first evening in the Seven Heights buffet, guests can book (online) one of the resort’s five al la carte restaurants. Turkish, Italian, Asian, Fishbone and although Meatpoint specialises in steaks there’s also sea bass, spatchcock chicken and a vegan burger on the menu. Throughout the restaurant sourcing of ingredients is impressive and service impeccable.

The location

Leaving Dubai airport, instead of turning left into the city’s congestion head north-east. A taxi takes around 50 minutes to drive the 50 miles to the Rixos Bab Al Bahr.

A desert safari in search of antelopes, Arabian oryx and gazelles shows there’s more to desert wildlife than just camel rides. Falconry shows, sandboarding and spectacular sunset walks are just some of the activities on offer.

Book excursions from the hotel to the world’s longest zipline which will send you flying, or screaming, through the red hues of the Hajar Mountains. Ras Al Khaimah is developing a number of hiking trails if you prefer to view your mountains on foot.

Few guests can resist a trip to Dubai for its shopping malls, traditional souks and historical sights around the creek.

Other nice touches

A daily top-up of beers and soft drinks in the mini-bar is part of the all-inclusive deal.

At the spa, free use of the hamman, sauna, steam room and pool are part of the ultra all-inclusive package.

Late afternoon and evening performing musicians play accordion, piano, saxophone and violin around the resort.

In case you run into medical problems, the onsite pharmacy is invaluable.

The cost

Ultra all-inclusive begins from 1350 AED, around £295 per night.

That cost covers meals, snacks, drinks and almost all of the entertainment available.

The best bit

You’ll leave the Rixos Bab Al Bahr in better shape than you arrived.

After the travails of travel, start with a 60 minutes anti-stress body massage at the serene Avitane Spa. Then dip into a spa menu that includes aromatherapy, ayurvedu, honey, hot stone, Indian and Thai massages.

Adjoining the spa is an extensive range of Technogym equipment at the Exclusive Sports Club. Check their programme for group yoga and training sessions.

Barbers and hairdressers within the spa add the finishing touches for a complete holiday makeover.

The final verdict

Guests of the Rixos Bab Al Bahr will return home with sufficient tales of paddle boarding, circus and clown shows, retro night, massages and luxurious living for 1001 Arabian Nights of stories.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Rixos Bab Al Bahr.