The Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah.
Nestled in the serene embrace of Ras Al Khaimah, Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island is a breathtaking escape that promises relaxation and adventure in equal measure. As our editorial team from Expat Media arrived for a three-day retreat, the first thing that struck us was the stunning location. The resort boasts panoramic ocean views that instantly put you in vacation mode. The lush landscaping, private beach across the property, and an inviting infinity pool made us feel like we had stepped into a paradise just a short drive away from Dubai. Situated on the man-made Al Marjan Island, this 5-star resort is an oasis of luxury, with its private beaches, lush gardens, and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. The resort’s architecture seamlessly blends modern elegance with a relaxed beach vibe, creating a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The resort’s facilities are family-friendly, with everything from a kids’ club with arcade games to adults’ billiards and ping-pong table, a fully-equipped fitness center to a luxurious spa. There’s also a range of water sports, which meant there was never a dull moment. For those looking to unwind, the resort’s Turtle Beach offered the perfect spot to soak in the sun with a cocktail in hand.Our room: A spacious one-bedroom suite
The one-bedroom suite at Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island
We stayed in a one-bedroom suite that can only be described as spacious and elegant. The suite was thoughtfully designed with a king-size bed, and a separate living area that provided plenty of space to relax. The suite included a private balcony that offered uninterrupted views of the ocean and the lively courtyard with infinity pool, making it the perfect backdrop for our morning coffee, which we enjoyed along with the welcome treats of chocolate art, a bowl of fruits and nibbles that were sent to the room. The bathroom was equally impressive, with a rain shower, a soaking tub, and all the luxury amenities one could need.
Day 1: Italian indulgence and sunset serenity
Our first day kicked off with a delightful lunch at Al Forno, a charming Italian restaurant within the resort. The view from the restaurant was nothing short of spectacular, with the azure ocean stretching out before us. We indulged in a wood-fired pizza, a seafood platter bursting with freshness, and refreshing drinks that perfectly complemented the meal.
As the day began to wind down, we headed to the outdoor infinity pool for sunset dip and drinks. We had a fun splash in the infinity pool before cooling off with the bar’s signature summer drinks—a perfect way to soak in the stunning sunset.
The infinity pool at Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island
Dinner was a feast for the senses at Amouage Lounge and Terrace, where we dined on a sumptuous spread of Middle Eastern cuisine. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and after our meal, we enjoyed a session of shisha—a perfect end to our first day.
The seafood spread at Amouage Lounge
Day 2: From beach barbecue to mountain adventures
Our second day started with a light breakfast at Al Liwan, the resort’s all-day dining restaurant. We had freshly baked pastries, eggs, porridge and sausages. It was the perfect fuel to prep us up for the adventures ahead: a boat ride to the UAE’s only pearl farm, adrenaline rides up Jebel Jais, and lunch at the highest restaurant in the emirates. The evening was reserved for pure relaxation, as we indulged in a burger barbecue dinner at Turtle Beach, a private beach stretch just across the resort. The beachfront setting was perfect for a casual meal, with the scent of grilled meats wafting through the air and the gentle ocean breeze adding to the ambiance. Burgers and tropical drinks made for a memorable evening.Day 3: A morning of indulgence and exploration
The balcony at Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island
On our final day, we enjoyed a beautiful in-room breakfast. The spread included an assortment of fresh fruits, breads, and a full Mediterranean breakfast platter —delivered with a side of ocean views. Delicious and satisfying, it was a lovely way to start our last day at the resort.
Zaitouna House
Lunch was a special treat at Zaitouna House, which we learned is ranked among the Top 10 Best Restaurants in Ras Al Khaimah on TripAdvisor. The reputation was well-deserved—the food was exquisite, with a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors that left us wanting more. The warm hospitality made it an experience to remember.
We wrapped up our trip with a soothing massage at La Mar Spa. Perfect ending to a perfect trip.
Suwaidi Pearl Farm tour: A journey through history
Our exploration of Ras Al Khaimah’s heritage took us to the Suwaidi Pearl Farm, the UAE’s only pearl farm. We took a 10-minute boat ride out to the middle of the ocean, where we were treated to an educational and fascinating experience. Learning about the history of pearl farming in the UAE was a highlight, and the excitement peaked when we each picked an oyster and found our very own pearl. It was a truly unique and memorable activity that connected us to the rich heritage of the region.
Jebel Jais: A scenic escape
Our trip to Jebel Jais was filled with adrenaline-pumping activities. The scenic drive up the mountain offered stunning views of the rugged landscape, and we were in awe of the natural beauty surrounding us. At the top, we hopped onto the Jais Sledder—a thrilling ride with hairpin turns and breathtaking views that had us racing down the mountain with the wind in our hair. It was pure fun and adrenaline.
Jais Flight experience: A thrill like no other
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, we couldn’t resist trying the Jais Flight Experience, the world’s longest zipline. Flying over the mountain at breakneck speeds was exhilarating, to say the least. The views were incredible, and the sense of freedom as we soared through the air was unmatched. It’s an experience that’s not for the faint-hearted, but for those who dare, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that you’ll never forget.
Dining at 1484 by Puro: A high-altitude delight
One of the highlights of our trip was dining at 1484 by Puro, the highest restaurant in the UAE, located atop Jebel Jais. Situated at the top of Jebel Jais, the scenic drive alone is worth the trip. The drive up the mountain was breathtaking, with every turn revealing more of the rugged landscape. The restaurant itself offers breathtaking views, and the food is as spectacular as the setting. The menu lived up to the hype. The food was delicious, the service impeccable, and we couldn't resist trying their signature drink—a concoction so sweet that it even attracted a few honeybees to our table! Dining at such an altitude, with the world seemingly at your feet, was an unforgettable experience.
Relaxing at La Mar Spa
After all the excitement, we needed some serious relaxation, and La Mar Spa at the Pullman Resort was just the place. The spa’s serene ambiance and expert therapists provided the perfect environment to unwind. The spa offers a range of treatments, and we opted for a full-body massage. The therapists were skilled, and the ambiance was serene—exactly what we needed to unwind. The calming environment, coupled with the soothing treatments, made it the perfect way to end our action-packed trip.Getting to Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island
Reaching Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island is a straightforward journey, whether by car or public transportation. From Dubai, the drive takes about 60-75 minutes, with clear signage leading you to Al Marjan Island. If you prefer public transportation, buses from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah are frequent, and you can take the RAKTDA bus from Union Bus Station or Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Al Marjan Mall. The trip takes approximately two hours and costs Dh30 for a one-way trip. Hop off at Al Marjan Mall and take a quick taxi ride to the resort. The trip is easy, and the destination is well worth the journey. Final thoughts: Our stay at Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island was nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this resort has it all. The combination of luxury accommodations, top-tier dining, and exhilarating activities makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Ras Al Khaimah. PIA/MFD/MJS/Expat MediaFor all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page
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