Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel

Al Bustan Palace has a reputation as one of the most established hotels in the Middle East. The Palace was built to accommodate visiting heads of state and the high levels of service and comfort given to those rulers are also afforded to all its guests.

The famous lobby of the hotel is 38 metres high, and glimmers with gold, polished marble and a huge chandelier. The bedrooms are furnished in an Arabic style, with a hint of art deco, using opulent colour schemes. The room style and grand public areas give the hotel a fairly formal feel for the interior, whereas the gardens and beach offer a relaxing place to enjoy the sunshine and perhaps a cocktail or two or light meal from the recently refurbished BLU bar.

Other dining choices include the Al Khiran Terrace Restaurant, which offers a buffet featuring a different theme each evening, China Mood, serving Asian dishes, and the Beach Pavilion, which has a varied menu of fresh seafood and grill options. High Tea is served in the Atrium Lounge each afternoon.

The hotel has a stunning one kilometre stretch of private unspoilt beach, boasting one of the best vistas in the area. There are a number of outdoor pools, including a 50 metre infinity pool and children's pool, as well as tennis courts and a gym.

Al Bustan has recently opened a wonderful Six Senses Spa, which is set to the side of the resort to ensure absolute peace and tranquillity. There are 17 treatment rooms with a natural and relaxing design, a selection of saunas and steam rooms, a juice station, a fitness area and yoga pavilion.