The Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal

Gamal, a friendly Egyptian, welcomes us to the impressive lobby with Arabic coffee. Followed by the cheerful tinkling of the piano - a lady in an evening dress skillfully orchestrates the transition from the busy Friday afternoon to the more relaxed evening. She probably has the most beautiful workplace during these hours: above her three sparkling chandeliers, outside the silhouette of the Zayed Mosque just before sunset. The hotel's proximity to this top tourist attraction is its greatest asset. Another: the gigantic main pool, which is particularly popular with families - also because the Al-Maqta Creek is not very inviting for swimming. However, "Grand Canal" is a fitting addition to the name, especially as the Ritz was inspired by Venice when it was built: Ten buildings grew into a hotel ensemble with over 500 rooms. Some sections seem a little dated, such as the carpets in the corridors and the patterns on the room doors. But the hotel, managed by Christian Höhn from Styria, is getting ready for the future anyway.





50 million euros are being invested to meet the trend towards a more private living experience at Long Stays. By 2027, 10 signature villas are to be built, all three storeys high, with a gym, pool, cinema and jetty. The "Mijana" remains for Arabic local color: the oud (lute) is played on its terrace, and connoisseurs sing the praises of the cuisine: the "Kunafa Prawns" are a hot tip, just like the innovative camel milk cocktails used to be. They are no longer available, just like coconut water as a breakfast drink in the Club Lounge. However, the Indian supervisor Prabhu ("The Able One") lived up to his name and organized the fruit for the nostalgic "repeaters" - and even helped out with an abaya, the black overcoat that my wife was advised to wear when visiting the mosque.

Test highlight: The piano player in the lobby and the grand opera on the doorstep, the Zayed Mosque.