Inspired by grand Arabian palaces, the new Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah offers luxurious surroundings and recreational activities fit for a prince. For starters, guests can enjoy a 350-meter stretch of pristine private beach, an 18-hole championship golf course, or one of the largest spas in the United Arab Emirates, the 1,650-square-meter, 13-room Waldorf Astoria Spa. Other notable diversions include two temperature-controlled pools and whirlpool; 10 dining and entertainment outlets including a steakhouse, a Japanese restaurant, and a traditional tea lounge; a kid’s club with its own pool; tennis court and modern fitness center; and sight-seeing tours.

The hotel boasts 346 rooms and suites, none smaller than 72 square meters and all with views of either the Persian Gulf, lush golf course, or the Al Hajjar mountains in the horizon. The crown jewel of the property is the King Tower Suite, which spans more than 135 square meters. The suite has two bedrooms with king-size beds and a separate living room. Other perks include 24-hour housekeeping, a private poolside cabana, and opulent marble bathrooms that are equipped with in-mirror TVs, a soaking tub, and separate rain shower and three-jet shower.

The hotel, located 50 minutes away from the Dubai International Airport, is the Waldorf Astoria’s first in the United Arab Emirates and the 25th property globally, and it blends elements of the renowned brand with unique features of the area. For example, the hotel features a grand lobby clock—a Waldorf Astoria signature—that includes Islam’s five daily prayer times. Architecturally, the hotel also includes Peacock Alley, located across the ground floor and mezzanine levels, which was inspired by the grand social promenade that connected the original Waldorf and Astoria hotels in New York.

Vienna Street; 971-7/203-5555; waldorfastoria.com; doubles from US$335.