There are only a few properties within a few hours radius of Dubai that I haven’t visited.\u00a0 Not a humble brag, more that with 12 years in the region, it’s a statement of fact.\u00a0 However, there are two Oman properties which have remained on my list — the Chedi and Six Senses Zighy Bay.\u00a0 Imagine my excitement when I was invited to a dine-around\u00a0at Six Senses Zighy Bay<\/b><\/a>.\u00a0 Not only would I finally get to check out the resort, but also most of the F&B outlets.\u00a0 We had lunch at the\u00a0Summer House, breakfast at the\u00a0Spice Market, and a few tapas at the Zighy Bar — all of which delivered.\u00a0 We also enjoyed a very special dinner at Sense on the Edge, but for that experience, I’ll post a separate review.<\/p>\n

For those who haven’t been to Zighy Bay, it’s about a two-hour drive from Dubai (stopping at the border at Dibba, don’t forget your passport).\u00a0 Once at the welcome center, those with 4x4s are welcome to make the harrowing driver over the hill, however, our Kia Rio was never going to make it (and I would rather leaving the driving to the experts\u00a0anyway).\u00a0 There was a slight back and forth about who we were on arrival (and when I called to let them know we were at the border), but I assumed that’s because our room might’ve been booked under the PR.<\/p>\n

The drive from the welcome center\/parking lot takes another 20 minutes or so, but the views are incredible.\u00a0 Late November was a perfect time to visit — clear skies and stunning coastline greeted us (as we tried to ignore the sheer drop below).<\/p>\n

Highlights<\/h2>\n

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• Those views.<\/strong>\u00a0 Honestly, whether coming over the mountain or strolling on the beach, the backdrop of the mountains is nothing less than spectacular.\u00a0 Best of all, basically every part of the property has an amazing vista.<\/li>\n
• Food.\u00a0 <\/strong>For a resort, there was plenty to choose from!\u00a0 Plating was a plus, and as you might imagine for a Six Senses, there are many healthy options to choose from.\u00a0 Overall, I also thought the pricing was quite reasonable (especially given the remote location of Zighy Bay).\u00a0 Finally, the Sense on the Edge dinner is genuinely one of a kind in the region.<\/li>\n
• Square footage\/privacy.\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>Although perhaps a bit rustic in design for my tastes, in the category of pool villa, there is ample space for guests, including an outdoor shower and a small hut (for a purpose we still can’t figure out exactly).\u00a0 Furthermore, for those who enjoy a bit more privacy, Six Senses certainly delivers quieter spaces and rooms where you can step away from the outside world.<\/li>\n
• A reduced environmental impact.<\/strong>\u00a0 I was very impressed by the number of initiatives in place at Zighy Bay.\u00a0 For example, real efforts have been made to cut down on single-use plastic (to the point that the only single-use plastic in use\u00a0are the bin liners).\u00a0 Not seeing a single plastic water bottle throughout the weekend was definitely a plus, and a goal I would challenge other resorts to attempt.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

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  Suggestions:<\/h2>\n

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    • Music.\u00a0<\/strong> We found the entire property to be strangely quiet (and this is coming from someone who is relatively irritated with most noises).\u00a0 Common spaces were almost too quiet (ambient music would go far at the pool or restaurants).\u00a0 While the overall lack of sounds might be in line with the Six Senses approach, I would’ve loved some sort of connection for our smartphones for our playlists, or outdoor speakers.\u00a0 Instead, we lifehacked our way by putting our phones in a glass to amplify the sound.<\/li>\n
    • Cost.\u00a0<\/strong> If you book through the site during high season (technically, I think that’s what we were in), prices can be close to $1500USD for the lowest category of room (not including food or alcohol).\u00a0 To me, that’s Maldives money.\u00a0 I realize that those traveling to Zighy Bay might not be bothered by an expensive room, but had I been a paying customer, I don’t think I would’ve felt that value (especially when there are similar offers in the region for considerably less).<\/li>\n
    • An update.\u00a0<\/strong> To me, there is a fine line between ‘rustic’ and ‘dated.’\u00a0 When attention to detail is everything at this price point, scrapes on decks, faded cushions, and other tired looking areas were surprising, and not what I expected at the property.\u00a0 I also would love to see more outlets outside or USB connections in the rooms.<\/li>\n
    • A further emphasis on branding<\/strong>.\u00a0 Truth be told, this was my first visit to a Six Senses.\u00a0 Had I not had a 5-hour meal with someone on the internal team, there is no way I would’ve known about some of the many initiatives.\u00a0 Unlike certain brands (St. Regis, W, Marriott), where you *know* when you’re in one, I found the Six Senses to be well-intentioned, perfectly polite, but without a real sense of ‘self.’ (Am I asking too much for a place?\u00a0 Probably).<\/li>\n
    • Check out.\u00a0<\/b> While we were supposed to leave our room at 12 PM, we were running a few minutes late.\u00a0 Imagine my surprise when someone showed up at EXACTLY noon to collect our bags.\u00a0 I felt rushed and to be honest, a bit annoyed.\u00a0 I’ve never felt ‘kicked out’ at a hotel before and felt a call first was justified.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      So, would I go back to Zighy Bay?\u00a0 At this time, I’ll be honest – I probably wouldn’t.\u00a0 While the food was enjoyable, and we were definitely relaxed, the price point is just a bit too high for me to justify a stay.\u00a0 I think my disconnect has to do with me being hyper-aware of the cost of the room, rather than relaxing and enjoying myself.\u00a0 All this being said, I don’t think Zighy Bay will miss my business, as they have a long history of repeat customers — both international and domestic.\u00a0 I’ll take this further and say if you’re looking for a similar experience, I think the Intercontinental Fujairah<\/a> and Ritz Carlton (either property) in Ras Al Khaimah offer decent alternatives.<\/p>\n

      Who is Zighy Bay best for?\u00a0 Honeymooners.\u00a0 A special anniversary or birthday.<\/p>\n

      Have you been to Zighy Bay?\u00a0 What was your experience?\u00a0 Would you go back?<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

      A to Za’atar was a guest of Zighy Bay.\u00a0 Opinions are my own, just ask my husband.<\/em>
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