Rixos Bab Al Bahr

Rixos Bab Al Bahr is a massive property composed of many large, modern tan-colored stone buildings. Interiors are polished and luxurious, including the circular lobby with gleaming marble floors, ornate decorative archways, and a conical crystal chandelier dangling above a statue of a horse. The resort is divided into sections of accommodations, restaurants, and other facilities such as pools and a spa. It's an enormously popular resort and often feels crowded with families and children -- this is not the place for couples seeking a quiet retreat, though couples do stay here. Nightly entertainment for children overtakes a central square and creates noise that floods into restaurants during dinner. Meal times in the buffet restaurant are particularly hectic with children running around. Other restaurants can offer a quieter experience. While there are adult-only areas of the property, the rules are not always enforced. The resort is also popular with locals on the weekends as a place to party. 

This property is set on Al Marjan Island, which is located south of and a little closer to Dubai than the city of Ras Al Khaimah. Around the resort there's nothing other than anonymous service roads that travel around the island. Most guests won't mind this, however, as they'll spend most of their time at the resort. Ras Al Khaimah, about 40 minutes away by car, offers more restaurants, a mall, movie theater, and other resorts. On Jabal Bil Ays mountain, about two hours away, there are adventures like rock climbing and zip-lining, and mountain roads with incredible views. Driving to Dubai takes about one hour and 10 minutes. Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is 40 minutes away. Dubai International Airport is 50 minutes to one hour away. 

Many rooms and suites at the resort have views of the Arabian Gulf, while others overlook the resort's garden. Decor is modern and a little generic in a soothing palette of beige and light turquoise. Rooms are air-conditioned and carpeted and furnishings include leather headboards and large desks. Some rooms offer balconies. Standard rooms have twin-size beds and amenities include mini-fridges, safes, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels. Bathrooms have private water closets and marble walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads. Toiletries are provided. Deluxe and Premium Rooms have sea views and king-size beds, and suites and Family Rooms with two or three bedrooms and bathrooms are available. Some wear and tear, such as chipped paint and damaged wall art, is evident. 

This vast resort offers many features including a spacious beachfront that has sunbeds and umbrellas, and a cafe. The separate men's and women's spas feature pools, Turkish hammams, and full treatment menus -- some included with rates. Eight pools, including a water park and adult-only infinity pool, are available. Fitness options range from a modern gym with cardio and weight machines to tennis courts, Pilates, and scuba diving (some fees apply). Kids' activities and entertainment are provided daily and in the evenings and there are kids' and teens' clubs. Daily and nightly entertainment for adults can include beach parties, live jazz, and acrobatics performers.

The main buffet restaurant serves international cuisine for all meals and tends to be overcrowded and noisy. Reservations can be tough to get at the resort's seven a la carte restaurants, which earn raves from guests and include seafood and Middle Eastern options. Some guests have recommended making reservations (at lobby kiosks) before breakfast for dinner the following day. Bars, including a mojito bar, and a nightclub are also on the property. All dining options are part of the all-inclusive package. Premium foods and beverages can cost extra.