Staycation review: Fairmont Ajman, UAE

STAY
Hugging Ajman’s pristine, white-sand beaches and the calm turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, Fairmont Ajman boasts a serene way of life that’s just a 30-minute drive from the Gulf hub of Dubai. Amid genuine Arabian hospitality, the hotel’s décor features elements that pay homage to the emirate’s marine heritage, such as sculptural golden fishing nets, and 14 floors of accommodation set the scene for a relaxing staycation. A variety of guest rooms ensure a sumptuous stay, but for a family getaway it’s one of the spacious suites that is the ideal option.

Each suite includes state-of-the-art technology with high-definition flat-screen televisions and a media panel, a work area with a desk and high-speed internet connection, views of the sparkling Arabian Gulf – easy to take in from the suite’s private balcony – and luxe Le Labo toiletries in spacious marble bathrooms with a bathtub and separate rain shower. Designed in a palette of soothing tones – light, warm wood accents, sand-coloured hues, hints of the blue sea – that envelope the space, guests are treated to comfortable contemporary furnishings, elegant design motifs and plush beds.

The Junior Suites, at 76 sqm, are ideal for loved-up couples and indulgent business travellers with its separate living area and bedroom that fits a king-sized bed, but the Family Suite spreads out over 84 sqm to ensure there’s enough room for the little ones. Featuring two bedrooms – one with a king bed and another that holds two double beds, natural light spills in from the bright Arabian sky to highlight an exceptional family experience.

With separate living and dining areas, and high-def flat-screen televisions in both the bedroom and living area, as well as the ability to connect with guest rooms for even more space, the 77-sqm One-Bedroom Suite is for families large and small. For something truly exceptional the two- and three-bedroom Corner Sea-View Suites, ranging from 123 sqm to 172 sqm, offer ample space for families with young children and teens. Visitors bedding down in the three-bedroom suite will surely feel at home with two king beds and two double beds, as well as a 65-sqm balcony – the hotel’s largest – with unrivalled sea views.

Editors tip: Enjoy a romantic evening out even on a family getaway with the hotel’s babysitting services

DINE

Gourmands used to tasting the best that the UAE has to offer in Abu Dhabi and Dubai will not find themselves disappointed with the seven restaurants, bars and lounges available at Fairmont Ajman. Carefully conceptualised and dedicated to presenting a fine-dining experience that is one of the region’s best, the cuisine spans the globe while showing off Ajman’s most picturesque beach and sea views. Following in the footsteps of Fairmont Dubai’s popular Spectrum on One, Fairmont Ajman’s Spectrum offers a spread of international cuisine served all day from animated live kitchens amid a contemporary atmosphere – arrive on a Friday to indulge in the restaurant’s must-try champagne brunch.

Within Spectrum, Gioia is a charming “restaurant within a restaurant” with an old-world twist, serving Italian-themed fare from an open kitchen and traditional pizza oven. Ottoman flair sets the scene at Kiyi Turkish Restaurant, the hotel’s signature restaurant, and an ideal dining destination for families with its menu of exotic sharing platters that includes kisir (bulgur and parsley), kebabs and baklava.

Make sure to stick around until 9pm on Fridays when lively belly-dancing shows entertain diners. During the day, as you laze on poolside loungers or frolic with the family in the sea or pool, it’s easy to grab a bite of healthy but flavourful food from Salt & Sea, a fun and breezy swim-up pool bar. Choose from colourful salads and snacks made from fresh ingredients – or make a date to take advantage of the daily Bells & Whistles happy hour and receive a one-for-one drink special from 6pm.After the kids have gone to bed, things heat up in the bars and lounges – start with a sundowner at Badr Lounge, a guest- and members-only terrace that sets a chic scene while showing off endless sea views.

After the sun sets, take the party inside to XOLO Bar, where jet-set guests sip creative cocktails and socialise in suitably sleek and upscale surroundings – and should the mood strike, a menu boasts innovative tapas and traditional shisha. Looking for something more low-key? Azrak Lobby Lounge offers a refined meeting space and afternoon tea with a meticulously curated menu of the time-honoured beverage.

UNWIND
If it’s relaxation and family time you’re after, that’s exactly what you’ll find at Fairmont Ajman. Away from busy city highways, towering offices and endless interruptions, there are few destinations better suited to indulge in much-deserved personal time. Whether it’s holistic healing or pure pampering that you wish for, the Spa at Fairmont Ajman by NINE Degrees will refresh and rejuvenate.

Let go in the hammam or one of the eight men’s and ladies’ treatment rooms where therapists wash away any vestiges of stress and weariness, and afterwards retreat to a Jacuzzi, steam and sauna rooms, and ice shower. An on-site barber shop and ladies’ salon finishes the polishing experience with old-fashioned shaves for the gents and beautifying treatments for the women. A state-of-the-art health club is even open 24 hours to accommodate the most fitness-conscious guests.

Under the warm Arabian sun there are plenty activities to transport you from the norm. Golfers in particular will be delighted by the Al Zorah Golf Club, just a 10-minute drive away. Designed by the renowned Niklaus Design company, the 18-hole championship course showcases the emirate’s natural mangrove reserve that teems with local wildlife, while presenting challenges from the area’s always-changing tidal system – be ready to bring out your A-game on the back nine. But no trip to Ajman would be complete without spending time in the crystalline Arabian Gulf, which Fairmont Ajman has anticipated with a wide menu of marine activities.

Having partnered with world-class water-sports provider Nautilus, guests can explore the sea backed by the hotel’s 200-metre private beach with ease. Head out on a fishing trip, take a seat on a Seadoo, join the kids on a thrilling banana boat or donut ride, or get some exercise while exploring by paddling out in a kayak or trying your hand at windsurfing. Whatever you choose to do on land or sea, a getaway filled with making memories and treating yourself to a well-deserved break is a sure thing.