It’s fair to say that the Fairmont brand has quite the reputation. A very good one, that is. Given this excellent reputation, it’s also fair to say that when you arrive at the new Fairmont Fujairah, you might temporarily think you’re lost. I certainly did. A quick check of the GPS told me we were, in fact, at the brand new Fairmont, but you’d be forgiven for thinking otherwise.
I’m not sure if I’d call the colour pink, peach or apricot, but whatever colour you call it, it’s not the most appealing. Thankfully the dated exterior is in no way indicative of the gorgeous hotel hidden inside. The interior designers deserve a round of applause here, as the styling of the Fairmont Fujairah is a winner. A clean black and white palette forms the perfect backdrop for a fabulous selection of art pieces dotted throughout the property. It’s Arabic-chic but not as you know it – there are no brown or sand shades in sight, and that’s a welcome relief. It’s impressive that they’ve achieved an ultra stylish and modern feel without losing the Arabic influence.
Room
My spacious 80sqm One Bedroom Suite was very well appointed, with velvet furnishings, chic Le Labo Rose toiletries and not one, but two bathrooms. Two! That’s two showers, two toilets, three basins and a full-size bath. There’s even more that comes in pairs too – there’s also two balconies with two chairs apiece, and two huge televisions, one in the living room and one in the bedroom. Though it’s not apparent from the TV menu, if you hunt through the settings of the actual TV itself, it does accommodate device mirroring – a fab feature, if you know where to look! The two-seater couch in the living room area is unusually comfy, and there’s a dining table for four.
The real highlight of the room, however, is the bed. It’s absolute heaven, like sleeping on a cloud (a figurative cloud that is, sleeping on a literal cloud would be impossible of course, and rather damp). I just wish I could have taken it home with me. If you’re in need of some serious r&r, the bed (and amazing pillows) will definitely take care of the rest part.
The room naturally comes with the requisite Nespresso machine, and even a cocktail you can make yourself for 55dhs should emergency cocktail cravings strike. There’s plenty of attention to detail – reading lights in the headboard, beautiful Arabic handles on the balcony sliding doors, gorgeous tiled floors in the showers. The views ain’t half bad either.
Cuisine
Currently there are three restaurants on the premises, however, the signature seafood restaurant Copper Lobster (usually open for dinners only) was closed during Ramadan. Canvas, the all day dining restaurant, was the most impressive, serving up an absolutely delicious Iftar offering (and you won’t often hear me praise buffet food, believe me). Cafe Pronto is your other option, a casual daytime eatery usually open until 7pm but open until 10pm for Ramadan. The fit out is a stunner but Cafe Pronto didn’t impress as much as Canvas on the food side of the equation (though their chips are fab I have to say). If you have a sweet tooth, Cafe Pronto will have you well looked after with a delicious looking selection of cakes and an ice cream bar also. Personally I’d recommend sticking to Canvas (their BBQ beef salad is so good we ordered it multiple times). Iammai, the poolside dining option, doesn’t have a dedicated menu yet, but I look forward to it having its own identity as the alfresco dining space is lovely in the evening (even during summer). Word is that there are more dining options to open in the future which will really enhance the experience for guests booking for longer stays.
Facilities
The focal point of the hotel is the beautifully tiled pool, equipped with a fantastic, shaded swim-up bar (closed during Ramadan sadly) which I decided to make my desk for the duration of the trip. I only wish my workspace in Dubai was this fabulous!
There are oodles of loungers and day beds surrounding the pool and the attention to detail paid is evident again here, with pillows a welcome addition to the loungers, and drink holders built into the daybeds. Great to see these little added touches that really improve your comfort level. There’s no beach access yet sadly, but the beach club that’s currently under development looks like it will be fabulous. Expect a late September opening for this new addition, but no need to wait until then – the current prices present fantastic value for the room sizes and quality.
There’s also an impressive Life Fitness gym on site with the latest machines – I was even able to take a relaxing video tour of different regions of France as I made a half-hearted attempt to cycle off the calories. At the Fairmont Fujairah, even your workout will make you feel like you’re on holiday!
Style: NYC art gallery meets Arabia by the Marina
Would I return? Yes! The beds are heavenly, the food is delicious and the spa is first class.
Best for: Staycationers, couples, families, solo travellers who want to get away from it all, friends. Everyone!
Room Type Reviewed: One Bedroom Suite
Room Size: 80sqm, One (rather amazing) King Bed
Room Amenities: Full-size bath, two bathrooms both equipped with showers, two large LG smart TVs with device mirroring, two balconies, WIFI, desk, Nespresso, minibar, robes, slippers, iron and ironing board, split section air conditioning, fridge, safe.
Hotel Amenities: Pool, swim up pool bar, Life Fitness gym
On request services: Watersports, yoga, personal trainer
Hotel Facilities: Spa with experiential shower and heated stone beds
No. of dining outlets: 4
Best dish: BBQ Beef Salad at Canvas
Price Guide: Rates are currently a bargain – from 680dhs per night for a One Bedroom Suite. Mention @Zoe.Bowker for 20% off the Best Available Rate for bed & breakfast.
