Words by Yvonne C Mtengwa

The urban clamor, a constant companion in the fast-paced lives of many city residents and international travellers alike, occasionally calls for a decisive escape—a moment to press pause, and rediscover the simple joys of connection. Turning 43 years old rung in an almost desperate need to totally switch off, silence the noise of Dubai’s bustling life and enjoy moments of total surrender to my teenage children’s whims. After all, it was summer season, which for this mom and babes, has over the years become synonymous with staycations across UAE’s cityscapes. And so, with a trunk filled with suitcases lined with colourful beachwear, we headed to Ras Al Khaimah for our much-anticipated beachside staycation.

For those seeking such a haven without the hassle of a long journey, Rixos Al Mairid in Ras Al Khaimah presents an irresistible proposition. A mere 1 hour 15-minute drive from Dubai, you’ll find the resort positioned along a tranquil coastline. It is more than just a place to stay; it is a private sanctuary where comfort and family-friendly ease coalesce into a perfect weekend staycation. Checking into one of their two-bedroom private, beachside villas became a testament to how effortlessly unforgettable a family escape in Ras Al Khaimah can be, but one needs to ensure that their resort destination ticks all the boxes for a stay that ensures everyone’s contentment.

After a drive through part of RAK’s commercial district Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah emerges like a hidden gem, its imposing fortress-like sand coloured architecture a harmonious blend of understated elegance and coastal charm, framed by the sparkling Arabian Gulf. The elevated driveaway towards the main entrance welcomed us into a realm of excitement after driving across Sharjah and onto Ras Al Khaimah emirate, with warm smiles from the concierge and valet parking staff invoking a sense of joyous existence. Walking through the rotating doors and onto the check-in desk, spirited calm on the part of my children was palpable. For me, arrival signalled a gentle invitation to leave all my work flow worries at the door and immerse ourselves in a world crafted for pure relaxation as I rolled in the 24-hour countdown to my birthday.

Suitable spaces for all

While the resort offers a range of sophisticated accommodations, for our family, the two-bedroom private villa with beach access was the ultimate choice. Stepping inside, we were greeted by a sense of spaciousness and contemporary luxury. The villa, a generous 145 square meters, felt like our own exclusive world. It featured two king-size beds in adjacent bedrooms, as well as a sofa bed in the living room space, which would make for a peaceful yet comfortable space for myself, my virtually socially savvy daughter and son who much prefers to immerse himself in football games showing on any one of the widescreen TVs.

The highlight though, and without a doubt, was our private backyard and pool. This shimmering plunge pool, set against the backdrop of an ocean view and just a few steps from the beach and nearby poolside barbecame the heart of our stay. It was here, by the pool’s edge, that we spent a few hours a day splashing, soaking up content from tablets for my two, and for me simply enjoying uninterrupted, quality family time away from the livelier main resort areas.

For guests who value accessibility to a copious number of amenities, while appreciating the stillness that comes with seclusion, this private, self-contained environment is what truly elevates the staycation experience. The thoughtful layout, villa spaces and amenities cater specifically to the needs of a family or group of friends. I found that the villa’s elegant and modern design provided a comfortable home base, perfect for unwinding after a day of activities, while the ocean view from our windows served as a constant reminder of our serene surroundings. The dedicated beach access allowed us to step directly from our private space onto the soft sands of the coastline and also made it easy to call on the beach club staff for servings from their pool bar menu.

Value for Your Spend with the All-Inclusive Collection

The very essence of a stay at Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah is its unparalleled All-Inclusive Collection—a concept that transforms a vacation into a truly carefree experience. This model is a tremendous convenience, especially for family travellers, as it removes the constant mental tally of costs. From the moment you arrive, every culinary delight, every refreshing beverage, and every exciting activity is part of the experience. The freedom to wander into any of the award-winning restaurants, from casual bites to gourmet feasts, without a second thought about the bill is a luxury in itself. This is certainly how one should travel or staycae! It’s an approach that ensures you can focus entirely on making memories, knowing that all your needs are met with a single, comprehensive package.

Dining spread across beachfront spaces

The resort’s commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its diverse and enticing array of dining outlets. The Turquoise restaurant serves as a global culinary hub, taking you on an all-day journey with cuisines ranging from European to South Asian. For those with a taste for classic Italian, L’Olivo offers an elegant setting and a menu of exquisite à la carte classics. The seafood soup is one you’ll certainly relish! Meanwhile, Orient provides an authentic taste of Turkey with its vibrant flavors and aromas. Steak lovers will find their haven at Toro Loco, a vibrant steakhouse with breathtaking view and some of the best mussels one can devour, while the Sol Seafood Grill & Bar offers a relaxed, al fresco dining experience on the beach, inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle. This wide selection of specialty restaurants ensures that every palate is satisfied and every meal is a memorable event.

All day playtime for all ages

Beyond the gourmet offerings, the resort is a vibrant playground for all ages. For the younger guests, the supervised Rixy Kids Club is a creative hub where children can indulge in everything from treasure hunts to discos, while the TeensClub provides a cool, dedicated space for older kids to connect over gaming. For adults, the resort is a hub of activity, from the state-of-the-art Indoor Gym and Exclusive Sports Club for fitness enthusiasts, an adult’s only pool to a variety of thrilling water sports for those seeking adventure on the sea. The hotel’s multiple swimming pools offer a perfect spot for every preference, whether you seek lively family fun or a tranquil escape.

Finding Your Center at Naturelife Spa

A true escape from the everyday hustles of life is not only about external comforts but also about internal renewal. The Naturelife Spa at Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah is a sanctuary designed for just that—a place where one can disconnect from the world and reconnect with themselves. With its comprehensive menu of wellness experiences, including a traditional Turkish Hammam, a tranquil sauna, and a rejuvenating steam room, the spa is tailored for those who desire to achieve a perfect harmony of mind and body while away on vacation. It’s an immersive experience that goes beyond a simple massage, inviting you to engage in a profound sense of well-being, where every treatment is a step towards holistic balance.

As our stay drew to a close, I left with a profound sense of rejuvenation, and certainly what I desired my birthday retreat be.  It was the collection of cherished moments strolling about the resort with my children, shared laughter in our private pool with cool daiquiris in hand, the quiet joy of watching the sunset over the sea for me and the effortless ease that comes from a perfectly curated escape. The Guest Services team was one of the most attentive I’ve had at any all-inclusive resort, leaving me wondering how big a hotel’s team would have to be to be as efficient and courteous with service provision as they were.

For families and friends looking to escape the city’s relentless rhythm and immerse themselves in a world of effortless comfort and boundless fun, a staycation in a private villa or any of the rooms at Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah is more than just a recommendation—it is an invitation to rediscover the art of togetherness on the shores of the Gulf.

To learn more about Rixos Al Mairid, visit https://allinclusive-collection.com/en/hotel/rixos-al-mairid-ras-al-khaimah/