Ras Al Khaimah's newest hotel has opened in Al Hamra. The Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort is now welcoming guests in the northernmost emirate, with rates starting from Dh863.
Blending French sophistication with Arabian inspiration, the resort is nestled in Al Hamra Village and has a beachfront position overlooking the Arabian Gulf.
With 292 rooms and 47 suites, there's a range of accommodation to suit travellers of all types, including two presidential suites in addition to one and two-bedroom options. All rooms have Diptyque amenities, private balconies and rain showers.
Interiors are inspired by a rich tapestry of Emirati history, encompassing pearl diving, sailing and pottery. This is obvious from the moment guests enter the property via a sprawling colourful mural created in Arabesque stained glass.
With four swimming pools, all right on the beach and one with a cascading waterfall, there are plenty of options for sun-seekers and those looking to take in as much ocean air as possible.
There are seven dining options, from the Citron lobby lounge to all-day restaurant East. While lounging poolside, guests can order from Mediterranean-inspired Samphire, while Reunion is the place to go for authentic French cuisine. Waka Polynesian Restaurant brings something new to Ras Al Khaimah's dining scene, with a menu of exotic dishes.
Health-focused travellers can visit Blend & Squeeze, a juice bar offering freshly-crafted drinks, while grape fans can head to Veritas, a sleek bar stocked with premium bottles from around the world.
Families are welcome, with children aged four to 12 able to attend Le Petit Prince Kids Club, where supervised activities and games are on offer. There's also a mini water park with tube rides and slides.
For a dose of relaxation, the first Sofitel Spa with Clarins is on-site and has an extensive menu of treatments available. Golfers have access to Al Hamra Golf Club, Ras Al Khaimah's 18-hole championship located 100 metres from the hotel entry.
“We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to visitors to this region, celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and verdant surroundings,” said Karim Abdelhamid, general manager of Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort.
“Ras Al Khaimah stands out as a premier destination for residential living, recreational pursuits and tourism, and the inauguration of The Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, Ras Al Khaimah marks another milestone in the island’s expanding array of top-tier hospitality offerings.”
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Dubai Rugby Sevens, December 5 -7
World Sevens Series Pools
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Key facilities
- Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
- Premier League-standard football pitch
- 400m Olympic running track
- NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
- 600-seat auditorium
- Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
- An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
- Specialist robotics and science laboratories
- AR and VR-enabled learning centres
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Meydan race card
6pm Dubai Trophy – Conditions(TB) $100,000 (Turf) 1,200m
6.35Dubai Trophy – Conditions(TB) $100,000 (Turf) 1,200m
1,800m
7.10pm Jumeirah Derby Trial – Conditions (TB) $60,000 (T)
1,800m ,400m
7.45pm Al Rashidiya – Group 2 (TB) $180,000 (T) 1,800m
8.20pm Al Fahidi Fort – Group 2 (TB) $180,000 (T) 1,400m
8.55pm Dubawi Stakes – Group 3 (TB) $150,000 (D) 1,200m
9.30pm Aliyah – Rated Conditions (TB) $80,000 (D) 2,000m
Brief scores:
QPR 0
Watford 1
Capoue 45' 1
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Bobby Grudziecki, chief operating officer of Frank Porter, identifies the five most popular areas in Dubai for those looking to make the most out of their properties and the rates owners can secure:
• Dubai Marina
The Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence are popular locations, says Mr Grudziecki, due to their closeness to the beach, restaurants and hotels.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh482 to Dh739
Two bedroom: Dh627 to Dh960
Three bedroom: Dh721 to Dh1,104
• Downtown
Within walking distance of the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and the famous fountains, this location combines business and leisure. “Sure it’s for tourists,” says Mr Grudziecki. “Though Downtown [still caters to business people] because it’s close to Dubai International Financial Centre."
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh497 to Dh772
Two bedroom: Dh646 to Dh1,003
Three bedroom: Dh743 to Dh1,154
• City Walk
The rising star of the Dubai property market, this area is lined with pristine sidewalks, boutiques and cafes and close to the new entertainment venue Coca Cola Arena. “Downtown and Marina are pretty much the same prices,” Mr Grudziecki says, “but City Walk is higher.”
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh524 to Dh809
Two bedroom: Dh682 to Dh1,052
Three bedroom: Dh784 to Dh1,210
• Jumeirah Lake Towers
Dubai Marina’s little brother JLT resides on the other side of Sheikh Zayed road but is still close enough to beachside outlets and attractions. The big selling point for Airbnb renters, however, is that “it’s cheaper than Dubai Marina”, Mr Grudziecki says.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh422 to Dh629
Two bedroom: Dh549 to Dh818
Three bedroom: Dh631 to Dh941
• Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah's proximity to luxury resorts is attractive, especially for big families, says Mr Grudziecki, as Airbnb renters can secure competitive rates on one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh503 to Dh770
Two bedroom: Dh654 to Dh1,002
Three bedroom: Dh752 to Dh1,152
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Torque: 405Nm at 1,750-3,500rpm
Transmission: 9-speed auto
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On sale: Now
Price: From Dh117,059
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