For break-away from the stress of city life, look to either a beach-side retreat that melds nature with nurture
While the UAE homes a whole host of enviably luxurious hotels, few, if any, boast uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf, with lavish private villas carefully dotted across the waterfront and refreshingly minimalist architecture. Just a stone’s throw from Dubai’s main airport – which makes it the preferred destination for Europe’s elite during the winter months – and nestled behind the spectacularly green Al Zorah Golf Club in Ajman, is the Oberoi, almost certainly one of the UAE’s most serene spaces.
Designed by famous Lissoni & Partners architects from Milan, the Oberoi has been thoughtfully designed with optimal seclusion and privacy in mind. The predominantly cream (think towering walls and clean structures), azure (large, angular ponds of water are littered across the grounds), and leaf-green property sprawls out across different tiers and overlooks a beautifully manicured beach (replete with stellar sunset views). If you will, ground yourself in the midst of its pristinely kept gardens for just a second, take a deep breath, and stare out towards the shimmering sea. Stress- busting, exactly as nature intended.
For those residing in the main property, endless views of the sea are punctuated by the serene sight of the UAE’s longest pool and magnificently sized water features that border the lobby and restaurant areas. In pursuit of true relaxation, book into the spa where treatment rooms with open-air showers and private hammams are nestled within a labyrinth of open-air corridors accented by the gentle sounds of nature. Start your day with oat- or coconut-milk cappuccinos; avocado on toast or overnight-soaked oats; and fresh juices using ingredients plucked straight from the chef’s organic garden. And then end it at seafood restaurant Aquario. The candlelit terrace (complete with the sound of lapping ocean) is a relaxing setting for speciality seafood, refreshing drinks and Italian desserts that are almost worth the calorie intake.
That said, the one-, two- or three-bedroom villas situated within the grounds’ lower tiers are the crème de la crème of luxury. Individual structures are designed in such a manner that the light and viewsare plentiful, but privacy is maintained. Expect a private pool, oversized lounge areas and modern bathrooms comprising free- standing bathtubs and rain showers. Step out the front door andit’s just a short wander through palm-tree-lined geometric gardenpaths to reach the beach, eateries or spa. We’re told that villa guests tend to book for a month and stay for two, hooked on theenergy that the break away from city life offers. Oberoihotels.com
Read Next: Find serene seclusion at this resort in the Seychelles
