Unforgettable Getaway: Exploring the Opulent InterContinental Mina Al Arab Resort and Spa in Ras Al Khaimah

Written by Vandana Raj, MD, Hozpitality Group

Our trip to Intercontinental, Mina Al Arab Resort, and Spa in Ras Al Khaimah was an unforgettable experience. Ras Al Khaimah has earned a reputation as one of the UAE's premier beach and resort destinations thanks to its remarkable development in the last decade. We were impressed by the stunning amenities and opulent accommodations offered by the resort, which exceeded our expectations.

The journey from Dubai to RAK covers approximately 113 km and takes around an hour and a half by car. To avoid the heavy influx of weekend visitors on Saturdays, we planned our trip on a Friday. However, upon arriving at Intercontinental Mina Al Arab, we were surprised to find the hotel fully occupied. The fact that the resort had only opened last year made its success in its first year even more remarkable.

Upon our arrival, we proceeded to the reception area, where the front office staff efficiently handled our check-in process. Shaukat Ali Khaskheli, one of the valet staff, kindly offered to show us around the resort in a hotel buggy. After dropping off our belongings in the room, we visited the resort's public areas with Shaukat as our guide.

Our room at the resort offered breathtaking views of the endless, crystal-clear ocean. The spacious living area was furnished with a cozy sofa set and a dining room, perfect for accommodating a large family. Additionally, the small but well-equipped kitchen had everything needed to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Our spacious bedroom boasts a modern and comfortable bed with premium quality linen, ensuring a good night's sleep. A separate locker room was provided to keep our luggage organized and out of the way. However, the highlight of our room was undoubtedly the luxurious bathroom. With its trendy modern decor, a large bathtub with a convenient board for drinks, and a separate shower area, it was indeed a sight to behold. Our suite even had two bathrooms, making it an ideal choice for families.

One of the fascinating features of our room was the button-operated lights and curtains. This futuristic technology added a touch of luxury and sophistication to our stay, and we couldn't help but feel impressed by the convenience it offered. We marveled at the seamless way in which the curtains glided open and closed at the touch of a button and the soft glow of the lights that illuminated our room with ease.

One of the most spectacular features of our room was the balcony, which offered panoramic views of the crashing waves below. It was the perfect spot to relax and unwind, snuggled up in a cozy blanket on the comfortable couch, listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean. What's more, the balcony provided an ideal setting for stargazing at night, with the added benefit of complete privacy and tranquility. We spent time on the balcony, marveling at the beauty of our surroundings and reveling in the serenity of the moment.

The resort boasts a private beach that provides an ideal setting to enjoy breathtaking sunsets in the evenings. Guests can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, build sandcastles, bask in the sun, or simply lounge on the swings facing the mesmerizing sea. For those seeking adventure, the beach offers various water sports, including volleyball and soccer. Alternatively, those who prefer a more relaxed pace can unwind with a good book in the comfortable hammocks under the swaying palm trees. There's something for everyone at the resort's private beach.

After a delightful evening spent on the private beach, guests can unwind and refresh themselves in the resort's temperature-controlled pool the next morning. As they bask in the warm sun, they can indulge in the best mocktails prepared by the attentive staff, adding a touch of luxury to their stay. The pool provides a refreshing and relaxing environment, perfect for rejuvenating the mind and body and preparing for another exciting day at the resort.

For teenagers looking to have some fun of their own, the resort offers a teen club that provides access to a range of exciting activities, including video games, pool soccer, and an arcade. This gives parents a chance to relax and enjoy some wine on the pool deck while their teenagers let loose and enjoy themselves. Additionally, the resort also has a kids club, where younger children can be left in the care of attentive attendants while parents indulge in some much-needed downtime. With options for kids of all ages, the resort caters to families seeking a memorable and enjoyable stay.

For fitness enthusiasts, the resort offers a well-equipped gym, complete with modern equipment and facilities, providing the perfect space to maintain a fitness routine while on vacation. Guests can also unwind and relax after a workout in the resort's steam and sauna rooms, where they can soothe their muscles and rejuvenate their senses. For those looking for ultimate relaxation, the resort's spa provides a range of massage and wellness treatments delivered by expert therapists, ensuring guests leave feeling refreshed, revitalized, and re-energized.

The resort's culinary offerings are simply superb, with delicious and flavorful dishes that cater to a range of dietary preferences. For vegetarians like myself, there was an entire section dedicated to Indian vegetarian cuisine, serving up a variety of sumptuous and mouth-watering dishes that left me feeling satisfied and content. The buffet also offers an extensive menu, with a wide range of options to cater to all tastes and preferences, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy. The quality of the food, combined with the exceptional service, made for an unforgettable dining experience.

We enjoyed our stay at the Inter-Continental Resort and Spa. We would definitely recommend everyone to visit there. 

Overall, our stay at the Inter-Continental Resort and Spa was truly exceptional, and we had a wonderful time during our visit. From the beautiful and spacious rooms to the delicious and diverse culinary offerings, every aspect of the resort was designed to ensure guests have an unforgettable experience. The staff was also incredibly friendly, helpful, and attentive, making us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. We would highly recommend this resort to anyone looking for a luxurious and relaxing beach getaway, and we can't wait to visit again in the future.