For us, the plus points of the Arabian summerhouses are the suntrap terrace and a bed with more cushions than you can count! A day at the Jumeriah Dar Al Masyaf starts with a refreshing rain shower and ends with cosying up on one of the plush majlis in the living area to get stuck into a good book.

Every summerhouse has a butler to help with unpacking, shoe-shining, making restaurant reservations and calling for a water taxi.

“We had an amazing butler and looked after our every need. We travelled with 3 children under 4 and the staff were so friendly and engaging with them, which made for a special experience. We will definitely be returning!” Emma Ward

Upgrade to the Malakiya Villas for a space with your own private plunge pool, Bose music system and a kitchen.

We love that you can start the day with a filling breakfast banquet at Arboretum, or for lunch, order your favourite seafood from Pierchic. New to the Jumeriah Dar Al Masyaf is the French Riviera restaurant, which comes complete with a St Tropez-inspired menu.

One of your favourites is the sea-facing Khaymat Al Bahar, serving everything from pancakes with all the trimmings, to tasty Arabic appetisers.

Planned a romantic evening? Travel by waterway to over 143 Jumeriah Group restaurants, and enjoy international dishes in intimate dining settings. Feeling social? Every evening at 6pm, there’s a hotel drinks reception for guests, which is the perfect opportunity to mingle – and sip your complimentary cocktail of course!

Known as a ‘Secret Beach’, and much quieter than your average beach, Al Sofouh Beach is within walking distance from the hotel. Thanks to its phenomenal sunset views, we can see exactly why this stretch of shimmering sands is one of the top three most eye-catching beaches in the world.

“The beach is simply stunning and the sunbeds are so comfortable, so we had no problem staying at the beach the whole day!” Kristine Evans

For a more electric atmosphere, take a selfie in the mini city of Madinat, where you’ll find Persian ornaments, jewelled kaftans and food stalls selling local delicacies.

Back at the hotel, water babies will love the kids’ pools, Sinbad’s Kid’s Club, and families can enjoy complimentary access to Wild Wadi Waterpark.