Rixos Bab Al Bahr – Ultra All Inclusive

First Impressions

Walking into Rixos Bab Al Bahr – Ultra All Inclusive feels like stepping into a modern Arabian palace — and I mean that in the best possible way. The five-star resort sits on Ras al Khaimah’s Marjan Island, which honestly gives you this incredible sense of being somewhere special without the overwhelming crowds you’d find in Dubai. The lobby’s soaring ceilings and intricate geometric patterns immediately signal that this isn’t your typical beach resort, and the staff’s genuine warmth makes you feel like you’ve been invited into something exclusive.

The Island Setting

Marjan Island itself is sort of a hidden gem — it’s this man-made coral-shaped island that feels worlds away from the mainland bustle, even though you’re just a short drive from the city center. What I love about this location is how it strikes that perfect balance between accessibility and escape. You’ve got pristine beaches that stretch for what feels like miles, and the water here has this gorgeous turquoise clarity that photographs beautifully but looks even better in person. The resort’s position means you get unobstructed Gulf views, and honestly, watching the sunset from the beach here is something that stays with you.

Accommodations and Amenities

The room I stayed in had floor-to-ceiling windows that made the most of those water views, and the design manages to feel both opulent and comfortable — no small feat, really. What sets this place apart is how the ultra all-inclusive concept actually works here; it’s not just about unlimited food and drinks, but access to experiences that would normally cost extra elsewhere. The spa treatments are included in many packages, which is rare at this level, and the fitness center overlooks the water (you know what, working out with that view almost makes it enjoyable). There’s also a tennis court if you’re into that, plus the kind of water sports setup that keeps both adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts happy.

Dining Experience

The breakfast spread here is honestly impressive — we’re talking continental, full English, vegetarian, halal, gluten-free, Asian, and American options all laid out buffet-style. But it’s the quality that surprised me most; this isn’t your typical hotel buffet situation where everything tastes the same. The restaurant venues throughout the property each have their own personality, from casual beachside dining to more formal evening spots. I particularly enjoyed how they incorporate local Emirati flavors alongside international cuisine — it feels authentic rather than touristy, if that makes sense.

Why Guests Love It

There’s something about this place that brings people back — actually, they have more repeat guests than most properties in the region, which tells you something. I think it’s because Rixos Bab Al Bahr manages to deliver that luxury resort experience without feeling pretentious or overwhelming. The fact that couples consistently rate the location so highly (8.5 out of 10) speaks to how romantic and peaceful the setting really is. Plus, with free parking and that ultra all-inclusive approach, you can actually relax without constantly calculating costs — which, let’s be honest, is half the battle when you’re trying to unwind on vacation.