Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort

There is no shortage of beach, greenery, and family-friendly activities at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort. The hotel occupies a tall modern building with blue window accents. The grounds are spruced up with palm trees, bushes, and flowers. Some pathways have outdoor chess or hopscotch courts -- just the first hint to the family-friendly aspect of the hotel. One of the more interesting aspects of the hotel is an outdoor aviary filled with birds. Inside, the design is contemporary, though some spaces and furniture in the public spaces and restaurants feel a bit tired or dated. For instance, the lobby’s wood paneled walls are a bit of a throwback while decorative elements made up of the U.A.E.’s flag colors don’t really add an upscale effect that the hotel advertises. Generally, the lobby is busy, like most of the resort, with reports of long queues for check in and at the restaurants. Guests here are predominantly families, so expect some noise and children running around. 

Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort is the perfect hotel for those who just want a beach resort getaway and don’t need a lot in the surrounding area to be entertained. The closest dining options are about a 22-minute walk away. The historic Al Bidyah Mosque takes 13 minutes to reach by car. It’s about a two-hour drive east of Dubai. It’s an hour and 45 minutes to Dubai International Airport by car. 

Most of the rooms at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort are spacious and attractively designed with modern decor. Expect gray carpet with wavy designs, white beds with cream headboards, large photograph installments, and espresso-colored desks and dressers. Some rooms have ocean views and furnished balconies. Amenities are well-thought out with flat-screen TVs, air conditioners, free Wi-Fi, minibars, kettles, DVD players, and safes. Some Suites have kitchenettes with refrigerators, two-burner stoves, sinks, espresso makers, and dishwashers. Bathrooms are chic with black sink counter tops, white marble, and separate showers with waterfall showerheads and tubs (some of which are jetted). 

All of the expected amenities of a beachside resort are offered here, like a large outdoor swimming pool serviced by a pool bar and a beachfront location. Though from first glance the beach and ocean are inviting, the water is often polluted from oil spills and isn't ideal for a swim. The hotel provides oil washing stations on the sand for guests who want to clean themselves. Guests can treat themselves to beauty treatments, massages, a sauna, and hot tub in the spa, as well as the hotel’s salon for styling needs. The gym provides cardio and weight equipment, and additional rooms for stretching or classes. 

The hotel features nine dining options which includes restaurants that offer Thai, Indian, Italian, barbeque, and other international cuisine. A hot and cold breakfast is offered daily. Half- and full-board meal plans with limited drink options are only available at the hotel’s buffet restaurant. 

There’s lots to do here for families, like a kids’ and teens’ club, an outdoor and indoor play area, water sports, tennis courts, volleyball courts, cinema room, and mini-golf. A few stores provide scuba gear, local products, and toiletries. 

Business amenities include nine meeting rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a business center. However, the Wi-Fi has received varying reports of quality. Valet parking is free.