Al Hamra Residence

The hotel offers a unique "village" style experience, with rooms often located within villas, providing a distinct and relaxing atmosphere. This setup grants guests easy access to multiple pools and the beach, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a tranquil getaway. Families appreciate the dedicated kids' activities and the overall welcoming environment, while couples find it a peaceful spot for a romantic escape. Golfers benefit from its proximity to the golf club, and sightseers can enjoy the beautiful views. Guests sensitive to noise should inquire about room locations, as live music can be heard late into the night. Utilizing the convenient buggy service is highly recommended for navigating the expansive grounds and accessing various amenities.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities designed to enhance guest comfort and enjoyment. Guests have access to multiple outdoor pools, offering refreshing dips and ample lounging space. Direct access to a clean, white sand beach is a significant highlight, providing a picturesque setting for relaxation. For those seeking active pursuits, a fitness center and gym are available. The property also features several bars, including the popular Frisky Fox pub, known for its lively atmosphere and entertainment, and the White Beach Bar. Families appreciate the dedicated kids zone with various activities. Convenient free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the property, and a buggy service assists guests in navigating the extensive grounds. Some guests noted that certain room blocks are only accessible by stairs, with no elevator available, and some bathrooms lack a bidet spray.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is generally positive, though with some mixed experiences. Many guests found their rooms to be clean and tidy, with housekeeping staff receiving high praise for their attentiveness and efficiency. The beds are comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Rooms are often described as spacious and welcoming, with some featuring balconies that offer pleasant golf course or sea views. However, some reviews mentioned instances of dirty rooms, uncleaned sheets, black stains in bathrooms, or a strong odor upon arrival, indicating occasional inconsistencies. While some rooms are noted as tiny or very small, others highlight surprisingly large balconies and bathrooms. A recurring concern is noise levels from live music, which can continue late into the night, potentially disturbing sleep. Some guests also reported issues with inconsistent amenities like slippers or toothbrushes, and inconveniently placed power outlets.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives widespread acclaim, particularly for its breakfast buffet. Guests consistently praise the tasty and varied selection of dishes, noting that options are diverse enough to cater to different preferences and nationalities. The food quality for breakfast, lunch, and dinner is frequently described as delicious, great, and superb, with a good array of meat, fish, and chicken dishes, alongside salads and fresh fruit. Many appreciate that the food is always fresh and replenished regularly, ensuring no queues or lack of tables even during busy periods. The main Market Place restaurant is highlighted for its efficient management and attentive staff. The Frisky Fox pub also offers popular food and drinks. While most feedback is highly positive, a few guests found the breakfast to be average or the overall food quality just okay, suggesting some variability.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a favorable location, offering convenient access to various attractions and amenities. It provides direct access to a beach and is situated right next to a golf club, making it an excellent choice for golf enthusiasts. Guests appreciate its proximity to the Al Hamra Mall and Marjan Island, which are within walking distance or a short drive. While the hotel grounds are extensive, a complimentary buggy service is available to transport guests around the property, including to the beach and various facilities. Parking is readily available and convenient, often located near the villas. However, some guests noted that the walk to the beach might involve passing through a construction site in the surrounding area, and there is a general lack of clear signage for the hotel, with the check-in desk located within a residence building. For exploring beyond the immediate vicinity, having a car is recommended as many attractions are not within walking distance.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff and service are consistently highlighted as exceptional, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience. Guests frequently describe the team as friendly, helpful, attentive, and professional, often going above and beyond to assist. The check-in process is generally efficient, with many guests appreciating early check-ins and late check-out favors. Housekeeping staff receive high praise for their thorough cleaning and responsiveness to requests, ensuring rooms are spotless and well-maintained. The Food & Beverage team, including those at the restaurants and bars, are commended for their courteous and attentive service, making dining experiences enjoyable. Buggy drivers are noted for being punctual, safe, and courteous, providing convenient transportation around the property. While most interactions are positive, a few guests reported slow or unresponsive service from the reception for specific requests, indicating occasional inconsistencies.

Additional Information
The hotel offers a unique "village" concept, with rooms often located within villas, providing a distinctive and homey atmosphere. Guests should be aware that some room blocks are only accessible via stairs, as not all areas have elevators. The property features lively live music and entertainment, particularly at the Frisky Fox pub, which is a popular spot for guests and locals alike. While the hotel is pet-friendly, finding suitable outdoor areas for pets nearby can be challenging. Some guests noted that the hotel recently reopened, and while many rooms are spacious, some bathrooms may appear dated or have minor stains or cracks. The hotel provides access to the beach and pool facilities of a nearby sister property, adding to the available amenities. Some guests also mentioned the availability of beer on tap in their rooms, a unique offering.