Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort

Rooms were newly renovated, service was great and restaurants were amazing

Stayed for 6 nights in late September with my family. Large, freshly renovated rooms, quiet at night though noise came through the connecting door from the neighboring room. Renovation is still ongoing, so there's some daytime noise, and the main restaurant is closed. Meals take place in a temporary cafeteria with a buffet. Plenty of food, but quality varies. The selection leans to Middle Eastern dishes; European and North American options are scarce. The beach has comfortable loungers and enough umbrellas. For 2 days the sea was rough and tar droplets reached the shore; the hotel posted a warning. On those days, light swimsuits and footwear may stain and clean poorly. After the sea calmed, tar disappeared. The women’s beach restroom had broken locks on 2 of 3 stalls, which is not acceptable for a five-star hotel. Staff were polite and warm. We arrived an hour before check-in and received complimentary lunch vouchers. One day we skipped our AI lunch and dinner; on departure day the hotel gave us extra lunch vouchers to offset the missed meals as well as a 2-hr checkout extension. On the beach, waiters came by rarely. In the dining area, staff took the drink order once; delivery speed varied and follow-up was spotty. Wi-Fi is stable, fine for work. Housekeeping solid. Bottom line: honest five stars on basics, but food mix, beach service, and small maintenance issues hold it back. Recommend for space and a calm seaside stay but perhaps wait for renovation to be over. 8/10.

Excellent service from staff

Nice place

Amazing management and great staff. Beautiful location and great choices for food and surroundings