Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa

Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa has been a family favourite since it opened in 2005, a low-rise resort stretched along the sandy shore of Al Raha Creek. The style mixes Arabian and Art Deco touches with warm mahogany tones inside, while outside the infinity pool is framed by palms, poolside cabanas and the round Aldar headquarters on the skyline. Day guests split their time between the private beach and the main pool, where kids have their own splash pools with slides and can join the Gazelle Kids Club if they are 4 to 12. Water sports, boat trips and the Wellbeings spa are there if you want more than a lounger. La Piscine, the beachfront pool bar and restaurant, serves food all day with beers, wines, cocktails, mocktails and shisha. Reviewers praise the friendly staff, the clean facilities and how easy it is with children, and weekends bring a busy local crowd. Arrive in the morning to bag a good spot, then stay for the softer light later in the day. The beach is open from 8 AM until sunset and the pools until 8 PM, with weekday pool and beach access from AED 125.