Al Maha takes you away from the bustle of Dubai
You might wonder what there is to do surrounded by nothing but desert and presumably that is why the likes of Madonna also chose the resort to relax at during one of her world tours.
But there are pursuits a plenty depending on how much you want to sample desert life.
Only the most experienced riders can dream of being given the chance to saddle up and mount one of the stallions – their temperament and breed means they are no trek ponies but for those without a sense of danger there is the much safer option of a camel ride or a jeep safari to keep you entertained.
There is also the chance to try the more unusual pursuits such as archery and falconry – traditional bedouin activities which have been carried out in these deserts for centuries.
For those looking to simply unwind after a hectic beach and shopping excursion to Dubai there is the timeless spa – a real oasis where guests can be pampered to their heart’s desire and offered the latest beauty spa treatments all using ecological products of course.
No doubt Victoria Beckham made good use of this facility during her stay before joining hubby David at the Budda Bar – Dubai’s hottest nightspot for the celebrity and business jet-set.
And of course for guests staying at the 42 individual suites when the sunbathing, swimming and safari gets too much, there is always the fine dining at the resort’s restaurants to enjoy where international cuisine and fine wines can be enjoyed in the air-conditioned interior or al fresco underneath the stars.
It is there you are likely to met our great host for our day South African’s very own Arnold Schwarzenegger – called what else but Arnie – the resort manager who is not only a gracious host but a knowledgeable director of the resort and a keen arabian horseman.
As he took us around the suites, finished off with arabian architecture, antiques and artworks it was difficult not to be impressed.
The suites even resembled bedouin tents with their luxury drapes around the pools providing much needed protection from the Middle Eastern sun. As you would expert in Dubai every detail has been thought of from hair dryers to luxury robes and slippers while the bathroom accessories are only the best – Bulgari of course.
In the 530 sq m presidential suite where Messers Beckham and Clooney stayed there are three bedrooms and bathrooms all fitted with beds the size of small countries and three huge marble bathrooms to match.
Everything from binoculars to watch the wildlife to a fully stocked bar was included and it was comforting to see that as well as every possible wine and spirit there was also a healthy supply of a girl’s best friend – chocolate – too.
Yes sharing Beckham’s bed, sipping champagne and nibbling chocolate – the Al Maha does it for me – definitely.
* For more information on Al-Maha visit www.emirateshotelsresorts.com/al-maha
