Al Zorah Beach Resort is a five-star retreat in Ajman, set on the edge of the Arabian Gulf within one million square metres of protected mangroves. White sand beaches and contemporary architecture shape the setting, and Dubai is about a 45-minute drive away. The mood is laid-back, which suits couples, families and anyone looking for mindful days beside the sea.

Rooms, suites and villas each come with a private terrace, a landscaped garden or direct access to the beach. Premier rooms look out over the garden or the ocean, while suites add separate living areas and, in some cases, two terraces. Villas have one to three bedrooms and a private pool, with beachfront options opening onto the sand. At the top sits the two-bedroom Al Zorah Royal Suite, which has a living room fireplace and a large terrace facing the Arabian Gulf.

Guided kayak tours glide through quiet lagoons and 10-metre mangroves, where flamingos, kingfishers and osprey can be spotted. Water sports such as jet skiing and banana boat rides return from 1 November, weather permitting. Golfers can head to Al Zorah Golf Club, an 18-hole course designed by Nicklaus Design and managed by Troon Golf. The Kid's Club welcomes children aged 4 to 10 with Xbox, board games, arts and crafts and an outdoor play area.

The main swimming pool measures 85 metres and is temperature controlled, with drinks and light meals served from the adjoining Poolside Lounge. Younger children have a separate pool, a sandbox and a pool for babies. The spa offers private treatment rooms with outdoor showers and private hammams, alongside aromatherapy, Thai, Eastern and Western massage. The fitness centre has free weights, machines and cardio equipment, with a personal trainer and classes in circuit training, yoga and Qi Gong.

Aquario is a Mediterranean seafood restaurant set right on the beach, with a pergola-shaded terrace that suits long lunches and candlelit evenings. Aquario Bar adds cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired bites with views across the water. The Library is a relaxed spot for freshly brewed coffee, sweets and savouries among books and artwork, and also serves a Valrhona chocolate afternoon tea. The Poolside Lounge keeps salads, burgers and gourmet sandwiches close to the sun loungers.

Downtown Dubai is a 45-minute drive from the resort, and Dubai International Airport lies 36.5 kilometres away, with a private vehicle and chauffeur available on request. Al Zorah Golf Club is just eight minutes from the resort. October to May is the most popular time to visit, when temperatures stay moderate and rain is unlikely. Winter days reach about 26 degrees Celsius, while summer brings cooling breezes off the Arabian Gulf.