Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah

Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah opened in 2013 as the emirate's first true grand hotel and remains its most architecturally ambitious. The property is set on a private peninsula at the entrance to Al Hamra Marina, in a symmetrical Arabian-Andalusian palace layout with a walled central pool court, arcaded loggias and terracotta rooflines that borrow from Marrakech and Seville in equal measure. All 346 rooms are corner sea-view or garden suites, generously sized and finished in warm stone, walnut and hand-worked brass. Dining runs to eight restaurants, notably Lexington Grill (New York steakhouse), Marjan (Lebanese fine dining on the terrace), Umi (Japanese teppanyaki) and Camelia (afternoon tea and pastries by the pool). Wellness is centred on the Waldorf Astoria Spa, one of the largest in the northern Emirates, with hammam, hydrotherapy pool and a full menu of medical-aesthetic treatments. Guests have access to two golf courses at the adjacent Al Hamra Golf Club — one signature course by Peter Harradine, one championship course. The private beach is 350 metres long, with cabanas, non-motorised water sports and a floating pontoon. Service is precise but relaxed, with a large expat European front-office team. The hotel suits luxury couples, discerning families, and executive groups equally well; twin-centre with Dubai (40 minutes to DXB) is the standard booking.

Starting rate based on a recent public retail search. Final rates may vary depending on travel dates, room type, and availability.