Affordable Luxury

If you arrive before check-in time at your hotel, head straight to Ajman Museum in the Al Bustan area. Open from 8am, the museum offers an interesting insight into the history and culture of the emirate. 

History lesson over, check-in to the beachfront Ajman Saray, which has 229 stylish rooms and suites, each with a private balcony. Once you’re settled in, decamp to the pool that’s surrounded by cabanas and palm trees.

When the sun starts to dip, indulge in a luxurious treatment in GOCO Spa or plump for a traditional scrub and steam in the hammam.

For dinner, stroll along the beach to Kempinski Hotel Ajman. The resort boasts four well-regarded restaurants including Hai Tao, which serves Szechuan and Canton dishes, and Sabella’s, with an organic Italian menu and welcoming atmosphere.

Work off your breakfast with an energetic game of squash at the fitness centre at Ajman Saray, or visit the nearby Kempinski Hotel Ajman or Fairmont Ajman for a game of tennis. 

Then swing by Qdemk Ndemk, a funky café opposite Fairmont Ajman hotel, for Arabic coffee and spiced karak tea. Don’t leave without sampling luqaimat, deliciously decadent dough balls drizzled with date syrup.

Next up, head to the Traditional Souq, regarded as one of the best souqs in the region for traditional tailoring and an easy 10-minute walk away. Continue on to the Gold Souq, a modern mall brimming with gold and silver jewellery.

Double back through the streets to the Corniche, where you can wander along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.

For an afternoon treat, take a taxi to Al Zorah Golf Club and enjoy a selection of specialty teas at Shakespeare and Co. restaurant and patisserie. With a well-priced menu featuring Arabic and European dishes, it’s a great place to have dinner too.

After a restful night’s sleep, it’s time for one last look at the sparkling ocean from your balcony before you check-out and return to reality.