InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa: A Local's Guide

Overview: InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa at a Glance

Set on the man-made Hayat Island and wrapped by the waters of the Arabian Gulf, InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa is a five-star beachfront resort that opened in 2022 as the first InterContinental property in Ras Al Khaimah. It's managed under IHG Hotels & Resorts.

With 351 sea-facing rooms, suites and villas, a private beach, an outdoor infinity pool and an award-winning spa, the resort is built squarely around the water. It holds a Google rating of 4.6 from more than 5,000 reviews and is a Forbes Recommended Hotel.

Quick facts

DetailInfoStar rating5-starOpened2022 (first InterContinental in RAK)LocationHayat Island, Mina Al ArabRooms351 sea-facing rooms, suites & villasDiningSeven restaurants and barsPetsNot allowedManaged byIHG Hotels & Resorts

Location & Getting There

The resort sits on Hayat Island in Mina Al Arab, surrounded by the Arabian Gulf — a setting that gives every room a sea outlook. It's approximately a 45-minute drive from Dubai, which makes it a natural pick for a quick weekend escape as well as a longer beach holiday.

For arrivals, the nearest major airports are Ras Al Khaimah International, Dubai International and Sharjah International. Confirm exact transfer times and any airport shuttle options on the official site when you book.

Parking is straightforward: there's complimentary underground parking, plus Tesla e-parking (note that guests bring their own charging cable).

If you're weighing where to base yourself in the emirate, our where to stay in Ras Al Khaimah overview and the Al Marjan Island guide help you compare neighbouring options.

Rooms, Suites & Villas

All 351 accommodations are sea-facing, spanning rooms, suites and villas — every unit is oriented toward the Arabian Gulf, so a water view is the default rather than an upgrade. Villas suit families and travellers who want extra space and privacy.

For exact room categories, layouts, sizes and bedding configurations, check the official site, as these vary by tier. Also confirm check-in and check-out timings when booking so you can plan arrival and departure day.

Dining: Restaurants & Bars

InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa has seven restaurants, bars and cafés, ranging from relaxed beachfront dining to international buffets, signature restaurants and late-night drinks.

• Levant & Nar — The resort’s signature Turkish and Levantine restaurant, serving mezze, grills and regional favourites with a contemporary touch. Its terrace and panoramic Arabian Gulf views make it one of the standout choices for a special dinner. It currently serves Saturday brunch, Sunday lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday, with a smart-casual dress code.

• NoHo Bar & Grill — A New York-inspired gastro bar with American-style dishes, sharing plates, barrel-aged cocktails, craft beers and wines. It has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere during the day before becoming livelier in the evening. Lunch and dinner are currently served daily.

• Saffar — The resort’s main international restaurant, built around a global buffet concept with regional and international dishes. It is one of the most convenient options for families and currently serves breakfast and dinner, with both indoor and outdoor seating.

• Sahar Beach Bar — A laid-back toes-in-the-sand venue overlooking the Arabian Gulf, serving Mediterranean-inspired light bites, cocktails and refreshing drinks. It is currently open daily from 10:00 to 19:00 and works particularly well for a casual beach lunch or sunset drink.

• ShaSha Pool & Beach Bar — A poolside spot designed around light bites, frozen cocktails, shisha and ocean views. ShaSha is currently listed as temporarily unavailable, so check with the resort before planning to dine here.

• Amarbar — An intimate, library-inspired bar with a speakeasy feel, specialising in whiskies, gins, wines, cocktails, cigars and light bites. It is currently open daily from 18:00 to 01:00 and is best suited to an after-dinner drink or a quieter evening away from the busier restaurants.

• Ladurée — Located in the resort lobby, this Parisian café serves Ladurée’s signature macarons, French pastries, teas and coffees in a more elegant afternoon-tea setting. Current hours are 08:00–22:00 Sunday to Thursday and 08:00–midnight on Friday and Saturday.

For the most memorable setting, Levant & Nar is the pick for a full dinner with sea views, while Sahar is better for something relaxed by the beach. Saffar is the practical choice for buffet dining, and Amarbar suits evening drinks.

Opening hours, seasonal closures, dining offers and reservation requirements can change, so check the resort’s official dining page before you go. For more options outside the hotel, browse where to eat in Ras Al Khaimah.

Spa, Beach & Leisure Facilities

The resort's leisure offer is one of its strengths:

• Award-winning spa for treatments and wellness

• Private beach with direct Arabian Gulf access

• Outdoor infinity pool

• Health club and tennis court

• Kids' club for family stays

If spa time is central to your trip, you can also compare treatments across the emirate in our spas and wellness in RAK guide.

Who It Suits Best

• Couples looking for a romantic beachfront break with a private beach and infinity pool

• Families who want the kids' club and the extra room of a villa

• Dubai residents after a quick staycation, given the roughly 45-minute drive

• Loyalty travellers who value IHG One Rewards benefits (check current terms on the official site)

For trip-planning inspiration, see our things to do in Ras Al Khaimah and family and kids in RAK pages.

Booking Tips & Practical Info

• Pets are not allowed at the resort.

• Beach weather in RAK is generally most comfortable in the cooler months — see our best time to visit guide to plan around the seasons.

• Book direct via the official site or through IHG to compare rates and loyalty perks.

• Complimentary vs paid: underground parking is complimentary and Tesla e-parking is available (bring your own cable). For what else is included in your rate — breakfast, resort fees, spa access — confirm on the official site, as these depend on the package.

Useful for the drive up: our car rental and taxis notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa located?

It's on the man-made Hayat Island in Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah, surrounded by the Arabian Gulf.

How far is the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah from Dubai?

It's approximately a 45-minute drive from Dubai, which makes it a popular weekend escape for UAE residents.

How many rooms does the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah have?

The resort has 351 sea-facing rooms, suites and villas, all oriented toward the Arabian Gulf.

What restaurants are at the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah?

There are seven restaurants and bars on property, including Levant & Nar (Levantine and Turkish), NoHo Bar & Grill and Sahar. Check the official site for menus and hours.

Does the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah have a private beach and spa?

Yes. It has a private beach with direct Arabian Gulf access and an award-winning spa, plus an outdoor infinity pool, health club and tennis court.

Is the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah good for families?

Yes. It offers a kids' club and villa accommodations that provide extra space and privacy for families.

Are pets allowed at the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah?

No, pets are not allowed at the resort.

Is parking free at the InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah?

Yes, there is complimentary underground parking. Tesla e-parking is also available, but guests need to bring their own charging cable.