World’s tallest rooftop beach to open in up-and-coming winter sun hotspot by 2026
THE tallest rooftop beach in the world is set to open by 2026 – with it’s own sand and seawater.
The sky-high beach will be part of the Manta Bay resort on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al-Khaimah.
The resort is said to be inspired by the Maldives, with direct access to the island’s beaches.
And the rooftop beach will be 197ft tall along with beach cabanas and sun loungers perched on real sand, overlooking sandwater pools.
Andrei Charapenak, CEO of Major Developers, said they want to have at least one world record for every project they build in the UAE.
He said: “We believe that it is high time to invest in Ras al Khaimah because the emirate will see a massive inflow of tourists, especially after the opening of the Wynn Resort on the Marjan Island.”
The new Wynn Resort hotel – it’s first beach resort – is set to open in 2027 with 1,500 rooms and suites, as well as gaming and casino zone.
If you fancy your own place in the new housing complex on Manta Bay, it will have 450 units to choose from, starting from Dh1.2 million (£290k).
More is to be revealed about the rooftop beach, including if tourists will be able to access it.
It is just one of the latest record-breaking attractions in Ras Al-Khaimah, an up-and-coming holiday destination in the Middle East.
The destination has been compared to a ‘cheaper Dubai’ despite being just 45 minutes away, with more affordable holidays while still offering hot winter sun temperatures.
Antonio Fellino, Travel Republic’s managing director, said last year: “Ras Al Khaimah is a great alternative to Dubai for those wanting to visit this part of the world on more of a budget.
“It is an especially good destination for those looking for an all-inclusive stay or a great value family holiday with its beautiful golden beaches and warm waters.”
Famous attractions include the world’s longest zipline, Jais Flight, travelling 1680 metres in just a few minutes.
The Sun’s Alice Fuller tried it for herself – here’s her verdict.
And one of the major newest attractions is the £217million Al Marjan Island, a man-made resort with four coral-shaped islands.
Breeze Island is the ‘gateway’ to the resort and home to the hotels – Rixos Bab Al Bahr, Marjan Island Resort & Spa, DoubleTree by Hilton.
On the other three islands – Treasure Island, Dream Island and View island – are long stretches’ of sandy beaches, beach clubs and luxury houses.
Celebs including Peter Andre have been spotted visiting Ras Al-Khaimah in recent months on holiday.
Other tourist attractions include desert-trekking in Sonara Al Wadi to spot gazelles and Arabian oryxes, as well as hiking the Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain.
In the mean time, there are other exciting new attractions opening across the UAE.
This includes a new $280m (£220m) e-sport attraction in Abu Dhabi, set to be built on the first gaming island where guests parachute to check in.
Surf Abu Dhabi is set to open this year with the world’s largest man-made wave.
The world’s first football club theme park, Real Madrid World, is opening next year in Dubai with rollercoasters and VR experiences.
And here’s what it’s like to go to Legoland Dubai – with 40 rides and huge waterpark.
Ras Al-Khaimah deals
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- 7 nights at Cove Rotana Resort – from £691pp
- 7 nights at Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island – from £691pp
- 7 nights at Movenpick Resort Al Marjan Island – from £680pp
- 7 nights at Waldorf Astoria Ras al Khaimah – from £897pp