We booked a multi-centre holiday through Angelfish Travel, focusing on resorts in Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai.
This was our third stop and our third stay at Al Maha, and it continues to deliver an experience unlike anywhere else. In fact, before we even checked out, we had already booked our return for next year, which says everything about how much we value this resort.
What sets Al Maha apart is the complete sense of privacy. Each villa feels like its own sanctuary, set apart from the others and with no intrusion from neighbouring guests. Once you close the door behind you, the outside world disappears. The views are wide open, the atmosphere is peaceful, and the stillness is unlike anywhere else we have stayed.
The rooms have a welcoming character that blends comfort with a style rooted in the heritage of the region. They are well cared for, and the private terrace becomes the heart of the stay. The pool is always a highlight for us — perfect for cooling off during the day or for a quiet evening dip, with an uninterrupted outlook straight from your deck. The beds also deserve a special mention. Without exaggeration, they are the most comfortable we have ever slept in. Each night we sank into them and woke completely refreshed.
Wildlife is the most remarkable feature of Al Maha. We occasionally see oryx in the reserve, always striking against the desert backdrop, though they tend to stay further away. The gazelles, however, make themselves part of your stay. They come right into your space, wandering across the deck, grazing by the pool, and often gathering in small groups. This isn’t an occasional sighting but something that happens several times a day, every day. Sharing that space so closely with them is unforgettable, and it is one of the main reasons we keep coming back.
Dining at Al Maha remains excellent. Every meal is thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented, and consistently enjoyable. Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners all offer generous choice, high quality, and friendly service that makes each one a pleasure. A recent change worth noting is the introduction of a 50 dirham tray charge for in-villa dining, which was not in place on our previous visits. Whilst it is not ideal, the cost is not prohibitive. We found our own rhythm by having breakfast in the restaurant, lunch in the villa, and alternating dinner between restaurant and room. This worked well and allowed us to enjoy the best of both options.
The staff remain one of the greatest strengths of the resort. Over three visits we have found them consistently warm, genuine, and attentive. Their friendliness and care give the resort its personal touch and match perfectly with the setting. They are a big part of why we feel confident returning year after year.
Each stay leaves us rested, cared for, and connected to the desert in a way that feels unique. Al Maha brings together privacy, comfort, wildlife on your doorstep, excellent food, the most comfortable beds imaginable, and a team of staff who make everything run seamlessly.
We are already looking forward to our fourth visit next year. For us, Al Maha is more than just a luxury resort, it has become the place we return to when we want peace, privacy, and the desert at its very best.
