Ras Al Khaimah’s luxurious hangout: Waldorf Astoria

“I feel like royalty already,” I told my companion as we drove up the palatial entrance of the Waldorf Astoria in Ras Al Khaimah, towering carved marble pillars in front of us, with Middle East-inspired chandeliers hanging from the high ceiling.

“Actually, this place feels like a real palace,” my companion said as we stepped into the foyer where a bespoke clock 3-metres high with gold trimmings and mother of pearl dial sat at the centre, a blue sitting area with round ottomans at its base. Every Waldorf Astoria in the world has a distinctive timepiece, and this Dh1.5-million piece in Ras Al Khaimah is no exception—it even tells the day’s prayer times.

It’s impossible to miss the luxurious details everywhere—from the ornate pillars and art on the walls (old Arabic calligraphy of phrases from the Quran) down to the Arabian-inspired carpets. The lobby lounge features a giant marble fountain, a vintage bar and an impressive staircase that reminded me of The Great Gatsby.