Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai

“Best breakfast ever ?”

We breakfasted here as part of an excursion in the Reserve. The setting on the veranda is stunning, with views across the reserve, without interfering with the animals. The service is first class. Not stuffy, or condescending, just friendly, unobtrusive and polite. The food was plentiful, fresh, ... more

We breakfasted here as part of an excursion in the Reserve. The setting on the veranda is stunning, with views across the reserve, without interfering with the animals. The service is first class. Not stuffy, or condescending, just friendly, unobtrusive and polite. The food was plentiful, fresh, natural and wholesome. We weren’t rushed and were left to enjoy the sunny outdoor atmosphere. This was a absolute highlight in our whole 2kw stay in Dubai. I'd love to come and stop at the hotel when we are next in town, thank you.

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“A memorable anniversary stay in the desert”

A couple things up front to be aware of: First, the hotel requires guest to be over 10 years old to stay at this property. This make sense because the hotel’s offerings and focus are not really a good fit for family needs (I say this as the father of 8 and 6 year olds) since the emphasis is re... more

A couple things up front to be aware of: First, the hotel requires guest to be over 10 years old to stay at this property. This make sense because the hotel’s offerings and focus are not really a good fit for family needs (I say this as the father of 8 and 6 year olds) since the emphasis is relaxation and enjoying the unique surroundings. Properties in Dubai have many more offerings that would appeal more to young ones looking for activities and fun! Second, the common spa area (sauna, cold plunge, steam room) is mixed company but my wife and I were the only ones in that facility both days we went (and the hotel was nearly full). Not sure if they typically make it first come first served, but it is possible to have a private couples time there and not be with other guests. And now to the review! Al Maha was the first of two stops on an anniversary trip that had been years in planning (the other the St. Regis Maldives, a great compliment to al Maha). Since we were flying through Dubai, we decided it would be fun to at least overnight and started looking at properties but wasn’t crazy about staying in the glitz and glam of Dubai; then I stumbled upon the al-Maha. After reading some reviews and seeing photos of the property, it was an easy decision to spend 3 nights here and make it more of an experience rather than a simple stopover. It was an excellent choice for our preference as this place is the antithesis of what usually comes to mind when you think of Dubai. The design draws on both Omani and Bedouin inspiration to create a wonderful oasis of relaxation and emersion that harkens back to the more traditional style of the Arabian Peninsula. You may think of the desert as a barren place but you will be surprised it is beautiful and full of life! We had a gazelle visit us every day including being precocious enough to come sniff my book, which I was holding, while I relaxed in our pool. And there is a constant background of bird song that was quite surprising as well! The design of the hotel itself is just beautiful. From the main “lobby” area to the rooms, the theme is expertly woven throughout the property to make everything look as if you were camping in the desert! The spa incorporates this aesthetic as well with great deal (even the men’s locker room included the geometric ceiling design). Equally beautiful are the staff! All are extremely professional yet personable who come from many places around the world so it was enjoyable to learn about them while we were there. We took full advantage of the activities offered during our stay and all were thoroughly enjoyable! From learning about the DDCR (Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve) which al-Maha is on to better understand the Oryx re-introduction and other conservation efforts to the camel caravan to a dune to toast the sunset, it was a relaxing and enjoyable emersion to better understand the wonders and beauty of the desert! And although the falconry demonstration can be early (6 am start for us) it was well worth it – I mean talk about a unique experience. Many thanks to Marno who was our guide for most of our excursions and he was a wealth of knowledge and a great conversationalist! Although not mentioned as an activity, eating should be considered! It is an all-inclusive property (excluding alcoholic beverages) but the plated lunches and dinners are excellent. Although only one restaurant on property, it has a wealth of options to meet a variety of tastes – we had 3 dinners and did not try the same thing twice and loved everything! The setting is beautiful as the restaurant terrace sits up on a hill especially lit up by torchlight at night (we used Marriott points for our stay and the all-inclusive comes with that still). While we did not schedule any spa treatments, we did use the sauna/cold plunge/steam room and pool which was very enjoyable. The spa is relaxing, and although is mixed company, my wife and I were the only ones in the sauna facility both days we went (and the hotel was nearly full). As mentioned earlier, the Oman style is maintained in the spa and is just a beautiful facility. Looking back on it, one would think that with so “little” to do during the day you would be bored, but that was hardly the case! Our time flew by as the property had a good mix of culturally themed activities, excursions and off course eating while providing relaxation at the main pool or the one in our suite. Overall, I think 3 nights is a good amount of time to stay and take in all the property has to offer. Al-Maha is perfect for a couple’s retreat to get away and recharge (and catch up on those books parents have not had time to read in years!). I can see why people return year after year, it is a wonderful place geared to help you disconnect and recharge in getting away from modern life. (PS – we stayed a week after the torrential rains and I was amazed at how quickly the property had recovered as the flooding damage to some of the grounds was evident. With that said, other than the fountain/running water feature that helps enhance the beautiful setting, the property was back up and running as if nothing had happened!).

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“Out of this world experience”

Al Maha staff takes good care of us as soon as we arrive, first by valeting our car, unload our luggage, then welcomes us to an isolated room of the main reception for the check in process. We selected our included activities, enjoyed our welcome drinks, then went on our way to our suite. The s... more

Al Maha staff takes good care of us as soon as we arrive, first by valeting our car, unload our luggage, then welcomes us to an isolated room of the main reception for the check in process. We selected our included activities, enjoyed our welcome drinks, then went on our way to our suite. The suite is unique in the sense that it has a tent-like ceiling, and perhaps the largest oversized king size bed I've ever slept in. Unfortunately the bed although comfortable, is too soft for my personal preference. We loved the chaise in front of the bed for us to sit and take in the view. The bathroom is quite roomy and comfortable. I loved the aesthetic design of the private pool, but there were a lot of bugs inside the pool so we didn't use it at all. It served well as a water source for nearby birds though. The camel ride was really nice. the guides planned the tour well so by the time we arrived at the spot, the sun is just about to set, and they had a nice reception set up with refreshment and snacks. Back in the reception area during high tea, we tried the camel milk, let's just say it's an aquired taste. The dining at this property was just out of this world. All the meals we had were amazing, with the dinner under the moonlight, breakfast in the air-conditioned restaurant, and lunch in the suite. Some of my favorites include the Omani Prawn, Al Maha Um Ali, and the Lamb Chops. All 3 locations are extremely romantic, I highly recommend for honeymooners. Contrary to other reviewers, I personally felt a 1 night stay at Al Maha should suffice, since you really can't do anything outside from 9am to 5pm due to the extreme heat. For most of the day, we stayed in the suite and just relaxed and enjoyed the view, watching the animals come and go. It is a surreal experience to be in the middle of a desert with all the first world luxury available to us.

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“Outstanding experience at Al Maha”

The Al Maha Hotel in Dubai is a true gem and an oasis of tranquility in the midst of the desert. The Arabian hospitality here is simply perfect – from the moment you arrive, you feel welcomed and cared for. The staff is exceptionally attentive and anticipates your every need. The food at Al Maha... more

The Al Maha Hotel in Dubai is a true gem and an oasis of tranquility in the midst of the desert. The Arabian hospitality here is simply perfect – from the moment you arrive, you feel welcomed and cared for. The staff is exceptionally attentive and anticipates your every need. The food at Al Maha is simply outstanding. The culinary delights range from traditional Arabian specialties to international delicacies, all prepared fresh and with great care. Every bite is a delight, contributing to an unforgettable dining experience. The atmosphere at Al Maha is incredibly relaxing. The breathtaking landscape and luxurious suites offer a perfect blend of comfort and nature. Here, you can truly unwind and let your soul recharge. The peace and serenity of this place are unmatched, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The Al Maha Hotel is an absolute hidden gem for anyone seeking relaxation, luxury, and top-notch service. It is a perfect destination for an unforgettable stay in Dubai.

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