TRIED & TESTED HOTEL
InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa B A C K G R O U N D Marking the InterContinental brand’s debut in Ras Al Khaimah, this new property, which opened in February, brings a new style of modern luxury to the UAE’s northernmost emirate, famous as the region’s adventure tourism capital. W H A T ’ S I T L I K E ? The resort is
stylish and sophisticated, blending natural materials with luxurious finishings in tasteful elegance. There is a sense of idyllic island-style living, enhanced by lush green landscapes and an unspoiled beach.
W H E R E I S I T ? Located on Hayat Island surrounded by the Arabian Gulf, the hotel is around an hour by road from Dubai and a short drive from RAK International Airport. The resort is also close to some of the emirate’s business hubs like the RAK Economic Zone, which is fast becoming an enticing destination for businesses with attractive packages being offered to lure companies from neighbouring emirates. More than 30,000 companies have been registered in RAK International Corporate Centre (RAKICC) from 160-plus nationalities. R O O M S There are 351 rooms, suites, and
pool villas, all with spacious balconies and terraces overlooking the ocean. I stayed in a Sea View Classic, which had stunning features including a large balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and a comfortable work space. It was very spacious and ideal for two people.
The bathroom had refillable toiletries to minimise singleuse plastic waste I loved that the bathroom had refillable toiletries to minimise single-use plastic waste and that, in addition to the rain shower, there was a huge bathtub too.
F O O D A N D D R I N K We had iftar at the Lebanese/Turkish fusion restaurant Levant & Bar, which was delicious. There was a huge choice of dishes, all made from fresh ingredients. The beautiful seafront setting offers a range of seating for cosy intimate dining or private spaces for large groups. The American concept NoHo is a bar/
restaurant with a great laid-back atmosphere overlooking the ocean, while all-day dining venue Saffar serves a breakfast buffet fit for a king with selections from cuisines including Indian, Arabic and European and several live cooking stations too. Business Breakfast and other dining options are available at the dedicated Club Lounge.
B U S I N E S S The hotel is really focused on the emirate’s growing business community and boasts 10,000 sq ft of event space with 10 naturally lit meeting rooms, dedicated meeting concierges, state-of-the-art inbuilt AV equipment, creative outdoor spaces for team building exercises, a dedicated culinary events team and a secret garden with panoramic sea views. L E I S U R E There is plenty to do, with
facilities including a gym, huge infinity pool, water sports, spa and a beautiful expansive beach. The adults-only Club Lounge also offers a private pool and Jacuzzi.
V E R D I C T Just like its Fujairah counterpart, this is a truly stylish stay with more of a cosy feel than many other luxury properties in the emirate. It’s by far my new favourite in Ras Al Khaimah, and among my top five for the UAE. Melanie Swan
BEST FOR A luxury corporate getaway
DON’T MISS Authentic Arabian dining at Levant & Nar
PRICE From AED 870 ($237) per night in June
CONTACT icrasalkhaimah.com
JUNE 2022
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