3 minute read
VIDA Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain
BACKGROUND VIDA has so far o ered a small number of boutique hotels around Dubai, each o ering a more personal experience than some of the mega hotels in Emaar Hospitality Group’s (EHG’s) portfolio of brands, which include Address Hotels and Resorts and Rove. This VIDA is the first to open in another emirate.
WHAT’S IT LIKE? Modern and funky design is one of EHG’s fortes and at this low-rise hotel, it is translated into something more classic and timeless than eye-catching, with a distinct European feel. Neutral colours and furnishings with so much attention to detail demonstrate a clear connection to the group’s luxury relative, the Address hotels. Though rated five-star by the Umm Al Quwain authorities, it feels much more like a fourstar property when compared to its sister hotels in neighbouring emirates.
WHERE IS IT? Less than an hour by road from Dubai International (DXB), VIDA Beach Resort is located in the UAE’s smallest emirate, Umm Al Quwain. A quaint coastal town, it’s a reminder of the country’s humble beginnings, with none of the highrise razzmatazz of the UAE’s glitzy cities.
ROOMS I stayed in a Deluxe Room with Sea View, which was fairly small, but provided enough space to spread out with two suitcases. There was a small table, a lounge chair and a modest desk to work at. The bathroom was quite cramped, but boasted a nice large shower. While there was no co ee machine, there was a kettle and teabags and instant co ee available. I liked the funky retro Bluetooth speaker – ideal for those of us who like to take our music on our travels. No expense is spared on bedding and pillows, so you’ll get a good night’s rest.
FOOD AND DRINK I stayed here during Ramadan, so the poolside restaurant was closed and the rooftop bar had not yet opened. There was just one dining venue open – Origins – o ering a bu et and a la carte menu and serving both regional and international cuisine. With a terrace overlooking the beach, it’s a nice spot to enjoy the cooler weather, though it does not have the pull of a stand-alone dining destination. The hotel also has a lobby lounge café called Stage 2.
BUSINESS Located in the expansive lobby lounge, the business centre has six Apple devices guests can use, plus good Wi-Fi connectivity. At Origins there are some desk-style work benches where you can sit and work comfortably while you eat or do a little business over lunch.
LEISURE During my stay the spa had not yet opened, but the gym was a bright, well-equipped Technogym-fitted facility and perfect for a short stay. The pool is large and picturesque, which will have [after Ramadan] a restaurant and bar. open to sunset.
VERDICT This family friendly, pet friendly and business traveller friendly property is trying to be all things to all people and so it feels a little confused. For the price, it also seems expensive, considering there is not much to draw you to the area beyond the hotel. Views across the water are to the slightly tired looking town and the narrow strip of beach lacks the pull of other properties o ering better value for money, especially in the current climate with deals aplenty. Melanie Swan
BEST FOR A change of scene and break from city life
DON’T MISS The rooftop bar, Socal, opening soon
PRICE From AED 925++ per night for a City Room Deluxe
CONTACT +971 (0)6 706 5000; hithere.uaq@ vidahotels.com; vidahotels.com
