If you or your clients are looking for a Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) product that ticks all the boxes for value, vibe, and location without needing to break the bank, then this place is for you. We’ve checked out Rove Al Marjan Island, and frankly, there’s nothing not to love about it. Ditch the stuffy luxe vibes, this is where sophistication gets a playful twist.
Fun, fresh, and future-proof
The UAE founded Rove brand has always delivered on its promise of being the UAE’s most cheerful hospitality offering, and this beachfront outpost is no exception. Stepping inside, the vibrant ambience hits you instantly. It’s got that signature Rove flair with all of its bright colours, contemporary and quirky furnishings, and an infectious, laid-back energy. Guests and visitors, be they digital nomads needing an inspiring co-working nook, a multigenerational family, or a group of mates on a budget-friendly jolly, will all naturally feel right at home – as we instantly did.
And speaking of home, a massive shout-out to the incredibly spacious rooms. While the 26–28 sqm ‘Rover Rooms’ are sensibly sized, they are brilliantly designed, making the most of every square foot with clever, clutter-free layouts. Crucially, they’re roomy enough to comfortably house a family of three, thanks to the integrated sofa bed.
The hardware
That brings us to the rooms. Rove Al Marjan Island brings 441 stylish rooms to the table. Guests get rooms with king or twin beds, a sofa bed, walk-in showers, mini-fridges, work desks, free Wi-Fi, and more, all smartly designed and appointed to deliver convenience and comfort without fuss. About 30% of rooms are interconnecting, which ticks the boxes for families and group bookings.
The facilities are also superb. There’s a private beach with loungers and cabanas that comes with some of the quickest F&B services we’ve experienced anywhere, a massive outdoor pool (plus a kid-friendly one), a well-equipped 24-hour gym, and even a 24-hour self-service laundromat for long-stay guests or families. There’s also a social buzz thanks to the beach-bar/beverage-truck vibe, a laid-back lounge area (the Rove “Pit Stop”).
To tie it all together, the playful, nautical-themed interiors that subtly weave in the cultural fabric of the Emirates, featuring authentic, quirky artwork by Emirati artists is an excellent feature for anyone interested in local creative talent.
Views, vittles, and value
Every good RAK hotel needs the seaside, and the great sea views here are truly “drool-worthy,” spilling out over the Arabian Gulf and the gorgeous Al Marjan Islands. Sun loungers? Check. Private beach access? Naturally.
Now, let’s talk about the fuel. The main restaurant, The Daily, serves up a solid buffet offering international food from most corners of the world. It’s not just a standard fry-up. The spread covers everything from baked goods to hot international dishes, ensuring every palate, from the pickiest child to the well-travelled corporate client, is catered for. While lunch and dinner can be booked à la carte or via board packages, the sheer quality and variety of the breakfast buffet alone confirm this hotel’s massive value proposition.
One size fits all
This is where Rove truly shines for the travel trade. Its versatility is its secret weapon. Families with young kids will love the sound-proofed rooms, interconnecting room options, and kids-friendly zones (children’s pool, splash area, etc.). Couples and groups will no doubt appreciate the beachfront location, poolside bar, and easy-going vibes, and beats when the DJ comes on at sunset.
Location and culture
For travellers looking to explore the real RAK, this hotel’s location doesn’t get an better. Only a 50-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, it sits on Al Marjan Island, a man-made archipelago that’s part of the emirate’s bigger push to redefine itself beyond the glitz of Dubai. Rove Al Marjan Island gives guests amazing waterfront access and a launchpad to many of RAK’s charms.
Fancy a change of scenery from beaches to mountains? Just a short drive up the road is Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak and the unofficial adventure heart of RAK. Come here hiking, zip-lining, mountain views, and luxe glamping or mountain lodges on the horizon. It’s rugged, it’s fun, it’s adventure you’ll love.
Cultural seekers will also appreciate the emirate’s depth through the preserved heritage villages, historic architecture, pearl-farming history, mountain-tribe traditions, and a vibrant fusion of old-school Emirati soul with modern resort comforts.
Ras Al Khaimah: The UAE’s rising star
For too long, the UAE spotlight has been relentlessly fixed on Dubai and Abu Dhabi. But RAK is patiently, and now boldly, stepping into its own. In 2024, the emirate welcomed 1.28 million overnight visitors. The year before, it was 1.22 million. Are you seeing the trend?
As part of its grand tourism vision, RAK aims to dramatically expand its hotel inventory by 2030, bringing in globally renowned brands and diversified accommodation options, from eco-lodges and boutique mountain stays to luxurious beachfront resorts.
What that means for travel agents and tourism providers is this destination is on the rise. It’s a place where demand is climbing, supply is growing, and the outlook is excellent.
2025/26 season just got lively
While anytime is a good time to visit RAK, the best time to take advantage of the outdoors is during the cooler months between October to April, when coastal breezes are gentle, mountain air is crisp and cool, and all of the mountainous and beach attractions are at their best. From late 2025 into 2026, the season on Jebel Jais is officially underway, with newly refreshed hiking trails, guided treks, and et al. The “Educate, Energise & Escape” season is live, offering a perfect mix of adventure, nature, and chill.
For this winter season and New Year 2026, Rove Al Marjan Island is looking great! It’s also a prime spot for the destination’s record-breaking fireworks display.
- The programme: They are hosting a “Grease-inspired” retro Hollywood-themed party on the Outdoor Terrace.
- The package: A typical 2-night stay (e.g., 30 Dec – 1 Jan), including daily breakfast and two tickets to the exclusive NYE Gala Dinner with house beverages, is being offered as a premium celebratory package at AED 1592 (USD 433).
- The view: The biggest selling point is the front-row access to RAK’s spectacular, record-breaking fireworks over Al Marjan Island.
Our verdict
We think Rove Al Marjan Island delivers exceptional return on investment for the modern, experience-driven traveller. It’s new, it’s clean (spotless, in fact), the staff are incredibly warm and friendly, and it offers accessibility to a mid-market brand with the amenities and style of a higher-tier resort. What’s not to love?
Stays start at AED 429 (USD 117) per night. Click here for more information on the property and bookings.
