UAE: A dip in the best of the pools

A day at a pool is always a good idea, but did you know that it’s the magnificent aesthetic which contributes to the experience?

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort is home to seven pools spread across the property

The largest salt pool in the Northern Emirate is at Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort

Life looks better underwater, you’d agree. If we are not on a staycation, we’re enjoying a day at the pool. Call it a poolcation or a lushscape; yes, when we’re in doubt we hit the pool. And there are many reasons we hit the pool and love it. Whilst in the water, have you ever wondered what makes the time spent there interesting? It’s the architecture, the hues (hello, blue) and the overall aesthetics that enhance the experience.

At Jumeirah Islands Clubhouse, with fresh colours and striped fabrics around the pool, you instantly feel the vibrancy of the whole space.

Ely N. Skaff, design manager, Sunset Hospitality Group

Dubai’s known for infinity pools, also for gorgeous views from the poolside, and more. And, we do hold the Guinness World Record for the world’s deepest swimming 60 meters (196 feet) pool — The Deep Dive Dubai, Nad Al Sheba. In addition, there is AURA, the world’s first and highest 360-degree sky pool lounge, with unparalleled views of Dubai. Brought to us by Sunset Hospitality Group, dedicated elevators transport guests to an island in the sky on the 50th floor of the Palm Tower that overlooks the majestic Dubai skyline.

The azure-coloured infinity pool was our way to participate in the Dubai dream, a land that offers you infinite opportunities, surrounded by skyscrapers and future-minded architecture.

Caroline Trichet, general manager, Sofitel Dubai Downtown

AURA is the world’s first and highest 360-degree sky pool lounge

So, what’s the one thing the creators keep in mind while designing the pool for the space? How much role does aesthetics play when planning the structure, size, et al? We deep dive to know more.

Salt pool has great health-giving properties, especially for the skin. We pump the seawater into the pool and run several phases of treatments and remove any sediment before pumping.

Shalvesh Nundlaul, cluster marketing & communications manager, Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort

Ely N. Skaff, design manager, Sunset Hospitality Group, said, “The pool at Jumeirah Islands Clubhouse (a partnership between Sunset Hospitality Group and Nakheel Properties) offers a never seen before experience; having it as the centrepiece of the space was steering our mind all through the design phase.” Interestingly, the arched edges of the pool match the spirit of the club and bring people together to enjoy the chill vibes of Isola Ristorante, a fresh architectural masterpiece and eatery that offers guests tropical vibes.

The azure-coloured infinity pool at Sofitel Dubai Downtown

“Whilst designing the property in the late 2000s, our vision was to have a magnificent pool that highlights the wonder that is the stunning Downtown Dubai,” said Caroline Trichet, general manager, Sofitel Dubai Downtown. The 65-meter-long pool at the property is set on a connected building to have the best views of the iconic Dubai skyline and partial views of Burj Khalifa, “The space makes it an ideal venue to relax and chill out, and also in the past it has been the host venue for many private, social and corporate events,” added Caroline. “We have the largest salt pool in the Northern Emirate. We have seven pools spread across the resort," said Shalvesh Nundlaul, cluster marketing and communications manager, Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort.

This piece was first published in Khaleej Times.