Just a 90-minute drive from Dubai International Airport and 180 minutes from Abu Dhabi, Fujairah is a distinctly calmer and more authentic emirate. The climate is very slightly cooler and well worth a visit for a two-three day break-away from the buzz of city life. In hospitably, the focus falls to small-scale luxury resorts, favoured by couples and families who are looking for down time in more credible settings as opposed to the uber extravagance of neighbouring Dubai.
The sea front boasts some household names, but nestled further in to Dibba’s coastline is The Fairmont Resort and Spa. Less than two years old, the resort prides itself as the emirates’s only art inspired destination with Middle Eastern art inspired designs decorating the walls and contemporary Arabic architecture, reminiscent of an Arabic souk.
Views are stunning. To the front of the hotel sits the towering and majestic Hajar Mountains, and at the back lies the endless open waters of the Gulf of Oman. Tranquil to say the least.
There are only 180 guest rooms which creates a sense of familiarity throughout the resort. The F&B outlets aren’t hugely diverse, but have been well thought-out and reflect both a contemporary clientele and local nuances. Copper Lobster is undeniably the Fairmont's highlight for evening dining, whereas Arteasan is its quaint tea lounge perfect for a mid-day pit stop. The Italian Café Pronto feels slightly off-kilter in the sea-side setting, but is in fact a delightful lunch spot and a slightly quieter hide-out.
Celebrity chef Hanane Ouaddahou will be a guest at the resort during Ramadan, bringing classic dishes from her home of Morroco such as Taktouka and Zaalouka to Lamb and prune Tagine. Bookings may be made via reservations at (971 9) 209 1054 or email [email protected].
