The United Arab Emirates has become one of the UK’s most-loved holiday destinations in recent years – and it’s easy to see why
In recent years, the United Arab Emirates has emerged as a firm favourite holiday destination for UK travellers, and its allure is undeniable. The country’s diverse landscapes, ranging from deserts to mountains and valleys, offer something for every kind of visitor.
Beyond its natural beauty, the UAE is also renowned for its luxurious lifestyle, showcased in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, there’s another gem hidden in the desert, just an hour’s drive from Dubai, which has captured the hearts of visitors.
Located on the man-made Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost of the UAE’s seven emirates, this hidden paradise promises adventure and relaxation alike. Harry Leach, who visited in November, discovered the thrill of the world’s longest zipline, Jais Flight, where adrenaline enthusiasts can reach speeds of up to 100mph on a 1.75-mile journey.
“Ahead of me, adrenaline junkies shoot across the world’s longest zipline, Jais Flight, reaching hair-raising speeds of up to 100mph on the 1.75-mile journey,” he recounted. .
“Suspended in Superman positions, 4,869ft above sea level, I can just make out their gleeful shrieks as they reach safety after a three-minute dopamine hit.”, reports the Express.
To his right lay the Jais Sledder, a 1.14-mile mountainside toboggan that’s not for the faint of heart and arguably more exhilarating than any Alton Towers rollercoaster. “This is Ras Al Khaimah, only a short 45-minute drive away from Dubai airport. It’s a thrillseekers’ dream destination while also a relaxing desert paradise.”
Harry enjoyed a luxurious four-night stay at the five-star Mövenpick Resort, nestled on one of the coral-inspired islands of Al Marjan Island, surrounded by the Persian Gulf’s shimmering turquoise waters.
“When I arrived in late November, temperatures were still reaching 30C and above, despite being on the cusp of winter,” he said. He was grateful for the gentle sea breeze that made the warm sunshine thoroughly enjoyable – a significant point from someone who has to slather on factor 50 throughout the British summer.
The resort catered to a diverse crowd, from elderly tourists to young families, solo adventurers to those content with lounging on deck chairs. Harry had an array of activities at his disposal, including indulging in a spa, exploring an online gaming cave, hitting the arcade, enjoying a children’s play centre, and taking in regular live shows.
Reflecting on his experience, he shared: “I followed up a tough gym session by treating myself to the best post-workout meal available: Mövenpick’s ‘chocolate hour’ – 60 minutes of complimentary eclairs, truffles and choccy fondue. It’s pure indulgence.”
He found the atmosphere bustling yet not overpowering, noting, “There’s a lot going on, a lot to see, a lot to do, but it never feels overwhelming.”
He also praised the hotel’s dining, saying, “It goes without saying that Mövenpick, a well-established Swiss hotel management brand in Europe, has exceptional dining options – with four first-rate restaurants on site, all focusing on sustainability and fresh food, each with their unique style, character and draw.”
The hotel’s central culinary hub, The Market, welcomed guests for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, a feature that Harry believed was the lifeblood of the establishment. Emphasising a heartfelt approach to food, chef Rajiv Ranjan Singh shared with him, “It’s about creating meals from the heart,” one evening while demonstrating how to prepare Switzerland’s beloved national dish, rösti.
Mövenpick is celebrated for the opulent Neo Sky Bar, which now overlooks the round-the-clock construction work of what will be the UAE’s inaugural casino, set to open its doors in 2027. This £3 billion venture is merely a brief drive from the resort and is anticipated to augment tourist interest in Al Marjan Island.
Despite this landmark being only 12 years old and relatively untapped as a vacation spot by Western holidaymakers, it shows great promise.
Harry reflected on his visit: “I wasn’t sure what to expect when I arrived here. But after five days, I left feeling revitalised and refreshed. The warmth and friendliness of locals and the tranquillity of the island made it a tough goodbye on the final morning.”
He continued, “Dubai gets most of the attention, and grabs the headlines, and perhaps that will always be the case.”
However, he concluded with a hidden gem admission: “But I’m fine with that because Al Marjan Island is currently the country’s best-kept secret.”
Flights connecting the UK with Dubai, servicing locales such as Ras Al Khaimah, are available via carriers like Emirates, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic, starting at approximately £420 for a return trip. Transfer to Ras Al Khaimah is roughly an hour’s journey.
Room rates at the Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah kick off at about £152 per night. For reservations and more details, visit movenpick.accor.com. Additional information can be sourced at visitrasalkhaimah.com.