Zaya Nurai Island – a slice of paradise in the UAE
Nurai Island’s infinity pool
I am going off on a bit of a tangent here as this post is not centred around the culinary aspect of travel, but a new resort in the UAE which has taken my breath away, so much so that it really warrants sharing. The food is still good, but the reason you will want to visit is to soak up the stunning design and serenity with only the calm, open sea as your view. I am talking about Zaya Nurai Island off the coast of Abu Dhabi – a mere 15 minute private boat ride from Saadiyat Island.
Nurai, whose name is derived from the Arabic word ‘nour’ meaning light, is an eight year-long project by the family behind The Farm in Al Barari and designed by the architect of the Nam Hai resort in Vietnam’s Hoi An. The fluid, zen design bears many similarities. Maldives-like water villas, but mammoth two-storey numbers perch out from one shoreline – however these residences are for sale. For us divas, there are 32 spacious beach retreats, each with its own, decent-sized private pool, sun deck and a beachfront with powdery, white sand.
If privacy isn’t your thing, there’s a large infinity swimming pool, right on the beach…and near the main, all-day restaurant, Nurai Terrace. In-room dining is encouraged though. The food is simple, yet well-executed fare focused on grills and peppered with Arabic appetisers. Breakfast is a la carte (shakshouka included!) and thankfully there’s no sign of a buffet in this resort. The menu is being refined though, so expect more of an identity soon. In the guest rooms, there’s a fresh fruit bowl customised to guest preferences (they may just stalk you on social media for research), Jing fresh leaf teas, plus jars brimming with nuts, dates and cookies.
The staff are super friendly and ready to strike up a conversation, which makes up for the odd lull in service. Nurai is in soft opening though, with the landscaping and spa not complete, so I would recommend visiting in March when the weather will also be at its prime…it is a tad chilly for your own personal barbeque at the moment. Yes that’s definitely on the menu. If your wallet doesn’t allow (note a special UAE residents offer below), you can of course just make a day trip for a spot of lunch and pool time. A barbeque brunch deal launches on the 13th February starting at AED450 rising to AED650 with champagne. There’s free Wi-Fi everywhere with perfect, uninterrupted connectivity.
Well I spent less than 24 hours at Nurai, and left feeling just as relaxed as with a four-day break in the Maldives. Perhaps next time though I should return for a digital detox instead. And now enough rambling, I am going to let my iPhone photos paint a picture 🙂
Nurai Island dock at Saadiyat
Where am I going? 🙂
Nurai Island beach
Nurai Island beach - with water villas in the background
Breakfast at Nurai Terrace
What's for breakfast?
Nurai Island shoreline
Nurai Island shoreline
Nurai Island in-room dining
In-villa dining
Nurai Island Beach Retreat BBQ
Fancy your own private barbeque?
Nurai Island Beach Retreat terrace
Beach Retreat terrace
Nurai Island private pool
Your own private pool
Nurai Island Beach Retreat view
This view is worth waking up to 🙂
Nurai Island Beach Retreat bathroom
Inside the Beach Retreat
Nurai Island Beach Retreat lounge
A peek inside the Beach Retreat
Nurai Island Beach Retreat treats
Fresh fruit, healthy snacks and teas
Nurai Island pool lounger
My reading spot by the infinity pool
Where’s your favourite retreat in the UAE for a staycation?
A bientôt.
FooDiva. x
Disclosure – I was a guest of Nurai. I may have been plied with a free night’s stay, but as always, the opinions expressed here are mine alone.
Private pool, personal barbecue and unfettered internet. Might have to move there!
I think some of those water villas may still be up for sale Sally 😉
Wow – tempting! Like your new photo gallery format.
Thanks Ishita. I have used it in the past for my travelogues but thought it was worth resurrecting for this post!
This place looks as if it is my cup of tea – thanks for the heads up.
One for when you next visit Johann!
It looks amazing, perfect for honeymooners!!!!
Yes very romantic for sure Kelly 🙂
I was beginning to get bored of all the desert resorts. This one looks like a refreshing vacay spot! Thanks for covering it so concisely.
Ha ha Neenu. Only here would someone comment on the overflow of desert resorts! But I know what you mean, I am a sucker for a seaview. My dream is to own a beach house somewhere some day…In the meantime, one has Nurai! You must plan to go this year.
We have just come back… can’t have enough of Zaya Nurai… I am feeling the urge to return right away. Thanks once again for writing on this:)
Glad you enjoyed Ishita 🙂 I could easily escape there once a month!