Al Zahiyah Vacations from $1,428

As a former, now retired, resort manager, I spent a lovely 8 day getaway at the hotel over the recent holiday season. I was completely impressed with the hotel facilities and thoroughly enjoyed the daily buffet breakfast but it was the staff that made my stay a truly fantastic one, because if the staff feels like 'family', the hotel feels like 'home'. In the lobby I'd like to give a special shout-out of thanks to Dana, Berna, Margaret, Gloria and the ever helpful Gul; in the breakfast restaurant a nod of appreciation to Marie and the ever lovely Letticia; up in Rays bar Emmerich was an amazing manager with Franklin keeping the guests smiling and cleaning my room I give a fond nod to Mohammed and San San who kept my sweet suite sparkling. I would recommend this hotel to friends and family and wouldn't hesitate to make a return visit- thank you all again and best wishes to the whole staff for a healthy and happy 2026! Mr. Klaus. (Room 4904)

Good sized rooms, in a safe and accessible location, easy for car service and sights. Pleasant staff. Room had a balcony with an amazing view, all the facilities of the room are good, though some space issues in bathroom. This is not a business hotel, so plug sockets, phone charging points are NOT easily accessible in room. F&B - OK, Breakfast can be a little chaotic in either restaurant. Lifts are slow and take time be prepared for queues. Pool area very busy, but pleasant enough for a few days.

I spent seven nights at Al Wathba Desert Resort, and while the property and service were truly exceptional, the value of the half-board package was a major disappointment. The staff were outstanding, some of the best service I've ever experienced, and made my birthday incredibly special with thoughtful touches, personalized desserts, and warm wishes throughout the day. Special thanks to Asanka, Samikshya, and Ishak for going above and beyond. The resort itself is peaceful, luxurious, and beautifully maintained, and housekeeping kept the room spotless and welcoming. However, the half-board package cost $628 USD per person for seven nights (over $1,250 for two), which felt like very poor value. We essentially paid close to $100 daily for a single meal from a half-board menu that was much more limited than the regular menu, and the inconsistent food quality often resulted in us not finishing our dishes. In-room dining and the standard menu meals tasted significantly better but were not included, so we still spent 100s more in additional meals. There was also frequent confusion among staff about what the package covered, which became frustrating. If I return, I would absolutely not choose this package again. I also had some sanitation concerns with the breakfast buffet, as one section of uncovered food had multiple flies around it and staff nearby didn't intervene. Overall, I had a relaxing and memorable stay, but the dining issues keep this from being a 5-star experience.

Cleanliness, great staff

Room and staff great. Restaurants okay.