Hotel Hotspot: Escape into history at The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah

Heritage and luxury converge in the heart of Sharjah’s heritage district.

The emirate of Sharjah was named the Cultural Capital of the Arab World in 1998 by UNESCO due to its commitment to preserving culture. But did you know that in the heart of the heritage district, close to the waters of the Arabian Gulf, Souk Al Arsah, Sharjah Art Foundation and Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, lies the only heritage hotel in the United Arab Emirates?

The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah offers guests a truly unique stay inside a collection of historic manor houses surrounded by meandering alleyways and atmospheric wind towers. Here, guests will discover a welcoming haven of Arabian elegance offering exceptional dining and top-notch hospitality. 

With only five hotels worldwide, The Chedi is known for impressive properties in unique locations, including India, Montenegro, Oman, Switzerland and now Sharjah. The Chedi Al Bait is a boutique 53-key Emirati luxury five-star hotel that delivers a stay where Islamic heritage meets contemporary convenience.

Heritage Homes

Living up to its name – Al Bait means home in Arabic – each of the hotel’s rooms and suites reflects the destination’s charm while providing guests with the utmost comfort. Located in low rise buildings where privacy and discretion are paramount, our Chedi Grand Patio Room was once occupied by local families. Despite recent renovations, the space still maintains its authentic charm thanks to Emirati woodwork and textiles found throughout the spacious accommodations. An eye-catching ceiling constructed from latticed wood sits above an extravagant four-poster bed that’s as comfortable as it is grand. Rooms radiate warmth and simplicity, resulting in a stay that;’s not only homely but thoroughly enjoyable. The addition of a small majlis and deck-chair laden patio provide a welcome addition, with the latter acting as the perfect sun trap throughout the day.

The minimalist design feels sophisticated and rooted in the location, allowing statement features such as ornate wooden carvings, antique furnishings, traditional lanterns and pebbled shower floors to take precedence. These natural materials blend effortlessly with modern comfort, ensuring Nespresso machines, flat-screen televisions and adequate wifi contribute to, rather than overshadow, the truly unique setting.

Fantastic Facilities 

Thanks to its central location, The Chedi Al Bait offers the perfect base for exploring Sharjah’s many attractions and exhibits. The Rain Room, Al Noor Island and Sharjah Central Souk are all easily accessible on foot, yet you don’t need to venture far from the hotel to capture that sense of adventure. A stroll through the hotel’s grounds present carved wooden doors and the only circular barjeel (wind tower) in the UAE. Visit the small but functional on-site museum and discover the illustrious legacy of the Al Midfa family who once resided in the hotel or browse hundreds of antiquarian and contemporary books in the library.

The Spa is a delightful sanctuary that is bound to restore peace and balance to mind, body and soul through a range of organic massages and treatments. Divided into men’s and ladies’ sections, guests can relax within the spa’s lounges, hammam, steam and sauna.

The small but functional outdoor swimming pool is a chic space to while away a lazy morning or afternoon with its cooling waters, refreshing beverages and comfortable loungers, but you will need to book your space in advance as capacity limits are imposed to ensure the poolside experience remains relaxed and comfortable. Upstairs, guests can enjoy the state-of-the-art Health Club equipped with a kinesis zone, cardio zone, free weights and fitness lounge.

Whilst The Chedi Al Bait is situated a few minutes from the sea, the hotel does operate a stretch of private beach a few minutes away. Transfers can be booked in a retro Mercedes limousine that transports guests to a golden swathe of sand replete with loungers and lifeguards for a perfect day on the shores of the Arabian Gulf.

Distinguished Dining

Three on-site restaurants ensure your palate will be pleased throughout your stay. At The Restaurant, diners can enjoy a world of flavours, where a delightful á la carte menu serves up fluffy omelettes, stacks of pancakes, açai bowls and glorious cups of Boon coffee. For lunch, expect a carefully-curated menu to complement the exquisite terrace seating, set amongst gurgling water features and walls lined with traditional qahwa pots.

House in an atmospheric courtyard in the shadow of a striking wind tower lies The Café. It provides the ideal setting for morning caffeination accompanied by freshly baked pastries or an afternoon treat encompassing cakes and decadent desserts served beneath the prominent stone archways. 

The hotel’s latest addition is Nomani, a Japanese-Korean restaurant from acclaimed chef and restaurateur Reif Othman. Open for lunch and dinner, the popular new restaurant has already garnered a loyal following of Sharjah residents and visitors from Dubai who come for the Wagyu beef mandu, sushi, sashimi and Wagyu Galbi Sandos. 

Located just 30 minutes from Dubai, The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah is a haven of Arabian elegance in an incredible location, combining traditional luxury with modern functionality to create a truly authentic experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. 

If you’re searching for an escape into history, look no further.

GO: Visit www.ghmhotels.com/en/the-chedi-al-bait-sharjah/ for reservations and more information.