When it comes to a weekend of relaxation and leisure in the Emirates, Ajman might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, this coastal emirate is home to hidden treasures, such as the Ajman Saray hotel, which we had the pleasure of discovering during a weekend getaway.
The setting
The Ajman Saray, a part of the A Luxury Collection Resort chain, is situated at the very end of the Ajman corniche. Accessible by following the Sharjah corniche or taking the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Highway (formerly Emirates Road) and exiting at Ajman after passing Sharjah, the hotel boasts a recent construction, having just celebrated its first anniversary. The term “Saray,” of Persian origin, means “palace.” True to this definition, the hotel reflects the architectural style of an Arabian palace both in design and decor.
Upon arrival, the opulent ambiance envelops you as the entrance resembles that of a palace, complete with golden horses stationed at the hotel’s doors. The emblem of the hotel is a traditional Arabian lamp, known for its elliptical shape, commonly found in Arab palaces and majilis. These lamps, suspended in groups of three in various sizes, adorn the lobby, rooms, and restaurants, seamlessly blending with the overall decor.
Unlike vast lobbies with sprawling counters manned by numerous employees, the check-in process here occurs through three private desks in a dedicated lounge area. The personalized and private reception is accompanied by fruit cocktails while you await your check-in. Right from the start, it’s evident that the service is tailor-made, and the staff is attentive and considerate.
"The Ajman Saray is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. With its stunning beachfront location, it provides the perfect backdrop for tranquility and relaxation. ”
THE ROOMS
During our stay, we were pleasantly surprised to be upgraded to the Al Dana Suite, a spacious 80 square meters room with a direct view of the beach and pool. The suite welcomes you with a minibar, coffee machine, refreshments, and snacks.
The suite features three main areas: a lounge with an L-shaped sofa, an armchair, a coffee table facing a large flat-screen TV, and a dining space with chairs. An inviting workspace is also present in the lounge area. Sliding doors lead to the bedroom, where an LCD TV and an armchair create a cozy atmosphere. Both the living room and bedroom open up to a generously sized balcony with a summer seating area.
From this balcony, the unobstructed view stretches to the horizon, offering prime sunset views over the sea. The bathroom is a highlight, boasting a spacious enclosed shower and a central oval bathtub. It is equipped with Elemis Spa amenities. A unique feature is the mirror above the sink, integrated with a TV screen, allowing you to continue watching your favorite shows while relaxing in the tub. The bathroom also includes two large dressing rooms and dual sinks.
The room’s decor combines Oriental and contemporary inspirations, with the elliptical lamps featured not merely for aesthetics but as functional elements. The lounge area is also adorned with a grand chandelier, a contemporary artwork suspended above the dining table.
Leisure & Well-being
The Ajman Saray offers all the ingredients for a tranquil and leisure-filled stay. The hotel boasts a private beach sheltered by a breakwater, ensuring safe swimming and keeping jet skis away. The water remains shallow, allowing you to walk quite a distance from the shore.
The outdoor space includes a large Jacuzzi and two pools: a rectangular pool and a shallow children’s pool. The Jacuzzi is integrated into the larger pool. An abundance of sun loungers with parasols and canopies surrounds the pool, guaranteeing availability even on weekends. An intriguing option is the mermaid outfit available for rent, enabling you to swim like a mermaid or merely capture whimsical photos by the pool or beach.
A delightful garden with palm trees and green spaces leads to the hotel’s private beach, where comfortable loungers and umbrellas await. A kids’ club is available for parents looking to provide entertainment for their children.
For sports enthusiasts, the hotel’s brand-new gym is equipped with top-notch Technogym equipment. It features a cardio section with treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes, as well as a weights section and several weightlifting machines. The hotel even has a squash court.
GOCO Spa
The hotel’s exquisite spa offers classic, aromatherapy, and Oriental massages, along with treatments like hot stone massages. The spa also features a hammam, where you can opt for traditional treatments or indulge in a black soap scrub followed by a gentle massage. Couples can enjoy treatments in private suites. The spa also provides an array of cosmetics and body products.
The spa facilities include a women’s beauty salon and a barbershop for men.
CULINARY EXPERIENCES
The Ajman Saray hosts a variety of restaurants offering diverse cuisine in luxurious settings:
- Bab Al Bahr: Beachfront restaurant and bar
- Safi: Seafood restaurant
- Mejhana: Arabic restaurant specializing in Moroccan cuisine
- Vista: Buffet restaurant serving breakfast
- Al Shorfa: Lobby coffee shop serving hot beverages and pastries
Our recommendation:
- Safi restaurant for seafood enthusiasts, offering exotic combinations in a simple yet exotic menu.
- The caramel milkshake from the restaurant menu – a delightful companion throughout our weekend.
FINAL VERDICT
The Ajman Saray is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. With its stunning beachfront location, it provides the perfect backdrop for tranquility and relaxation.
It’s a quick 45-minute drive from Dubai Marina, making it an ideal destination for a night or weekend away from Dubai’s hustle and bustle.
The dedicated staff goes above and beyond, making your stay a remarkable experience. Take advantage of this newly established gem before it becomes a renowned tourist destination in the region.
CONTACT INFO
For more information and reservations, visit the Ajman Saray website.
