There are times when you might feel like turning the car around while you drive across swathes of joyless, barren desert on the unanimously disliked E11 highway. But for those who persevere on the almost six-hour drive from Dubai to Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, on the west coast of Abu Dhabi in Ruwais, nestled between desert and ocean, the rewards are many.
The five-star beachfront resort is situated along 800 metres of pristine sand and clear, blue water, making it an ideal spot for ocean lovers. Having opened 24 new beachfront chalets at the property, we were invited by the resort to check them out over a weekend last month, and making this trip was the perfect getaway from the overbearing stress and bustle of city life, because nothing screams distance like a spot near the Saudi Arabian border.
THE ROOM
The beachfront chalet is an oasis of calm and isolation. The room, with its high vaulted ceiling, comes with a large and comfortable double-bed (plus points because hypoallergenic pillows are available on request), a small seating area, a writer’s desk and a large wardrobe. The outdoor patio with its cutesy furniture, overlooking the ocean, is a great space to kick back in the evening and enjoy long conversations with your trip companion.
WHAT TO DO
At Danat, you’ll rarely feel compelled to spend time indoors, even when the room’s at its most inviting. From tennis courts, giant chessboards and a play area for the little ones to steam and sauna rooms, spa amenities and water sports, the activities at Danat are varied and there’s something for everyone.
My companion and I chose to spend most of our time taking long walks and then sunbathing at the beach. Since this was a press trip, the folks at Danat had organised a few games and activities for everyone. There was a friendly kayaking race (spoiler alert: our team won), banana boat rides, wakeboarding and we spotted several guests stand up paddling.
Situated just a boat ride away from Sir Bani Yas Island, the waters around the resort are teeming with marine life and the clear, blue ocean with the coral reef right under makes this the perfect spot for a round of snorkelling.
You can also go deep-sea fishing off the coast of Danat (if weather permits), along with a guide, and if you manage to catch something, the chef back at the resort will cook it for you.
The temperature-controlled pool that overlooks the face of the resort is also a great spot to unwind. With a swim-up bar attached, the pool was a busy place almost all weekend.
WHERE TO EAT
Tides: Breakfast at hotels tend to get repetitive and boring. But Tides, which also has outdoor seating and a view of the gardens, put out a colourful spread that had your appetite going first thing in the morning. Serving pancakes and waffles to cold cuts, sushi (yup, we were surprised too) and more, we were up early on our second day just so we could enjoy the breakfast at a leisurely pace.
L’attitude: The nightclub/pub is where you should head to if you’re in the mood to listen to live music and enjoy bar eats at the same time. Because this is the only club for miles and miles around, the clientele can get a little unpredictable at times. The staff, however, is quick and always ready to serve here.
Zaitoun: For a romantic dinner or quiet time with the family, head to Zaitoun, an Italian restaurant, with delicious food and a dim-lit, cosy ambience.
BBQ Friday Brunch: On Fridays, the staff organise a BBQ lunch by the pool. The selection included tiger prawns, king fish, steak and lamb, along with a number of side dishes and drinks.
WHAT WE RECOMMEND
Definitely pick the beach chalet for the beautiful patio space and views of the ocean. Some of the chalets don’t have unrestricted views, so make sure you call and book your preference. Beach bums must make the most of the water sports at hand.
RATING
Rooms: 4/5
Service: 5/5
Value: 5/5
Cleanliness: 5/5
Location: 5/5
The beach chalets AT Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort are now available at the introductory price of Dh899, including a 20 per cent discount on dining and spa experiences.
