Two weeks ago, I decided to try having a staycation in Abu Dhabi. I’m originally from Dubai, but I chose Abu Dhabi because its laid-back nature really sets the mood for relaxation and rest — perfect for someone like me, an expat in Dubai who is always surrounded by its fast-paced lifestyle.
I checked in at Al Raha Beach Resort because I was looking for a beachfront place that’s not too close to the city and not in Yas Island either. I felt that if I wanted to truly relax, rest, and enjoy the beach, the calming ambience I saw in the pictures would be just what I needed. When I arrived, I was completely shocked by its beauty and grandeur. I even exclaimed to the receptionist, Ms. Marbiles, how surprised, overwhelmed, and amazed I was by the place’s beauty. I didn’t realize how close it was to the beach!
Later, I realized I had booked the wrong room type — I only reserved the smallest room, and I was pretty sure it wasn’t a sea-view one. Ms. Marbiles confirmed that. It was my first time trying something like this on my own, so I didn’t really know what was taking so long during check-in. In my head, I was hoping my payment through Booking.com went through and there wouldn’t be any issues.
Then she told me she’d check with her manager if they could move me to a sea-view room. There was only one left (maybe because it was a Friday and I checked in late). To my surprise — Alhamdulillah, Allah truly blessed me — they upgraded me to the Al Raha Suite, which was ten times the price of what I paid! Please see the pictures — its elegance, warmth, and welcoming ambience were beyond words. I was so amazed, speechless, and dumbfounded. I didn’t know what I had done to deserve it. I watched the sunset in tears, in awe, and with deep gratitude.
Thank you so much, Al Raha, for your hospitality and for the gift of making me your “lucky client of the day.”
But the surprises didn’t end there. The next day, although breakfast started at 6, I went down at 9. I was sure that, like in other hotels, I’d be eating what was left. But lo and behold — my seat was reserved right in front, in the middle of the buffet area, and everything was still freshly cooked and beautifully arranged even though it was close to closing time. Again, I felt so special.
Even while waiting for my car lift to pick me up, I went to the coffee shop near the reception. The service was world-class — prompt, warm, and very accommodating. Ms. Lovelyn was so kind that I wanted to give her a tip, but she declined. She said she was just happy to serve someone like me. I tried several times, but she never accepted it. Still, she served me wholeheartedly from the start of my stay until the end. She even asked if I needed any help getting home so she could assist me further.
Actually, everyone — even the housekeeping staff — was prompt, active, and always on time.
It took me a while to write this, even though I truly meant to, because I feel like no words are enough to express my gratitude for the experience you gave me.
Once again, thank you so much, Al Raha. | 