The Unexpected Hotels & Residences — a bold lifestyle hospitality brand that made waves in Ibiza — is officially heading to the UAE. The new property, The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotels and Residences, is set to open in Ras Al Khaimah by 2027, marking the brand’s regional debut.
After the successful launch of The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel, known for its immersive mix of luxury, music, and entertainment, the UAE edition looks set to bring the same vibrant atmosphere to the shores of the Arabian Gulf.
The Ras Al Khaimah property will feature 422 guestrooms and suites, all with uninterrupted sea views. The design is led by the Design and Architecture Bureau and draws inspiration from ocean and sound waves, using LED lighting elements, illuminated fabrics, and curved forms that integrate with the island’s natural surroundings.
Expect bold interiors, rooftop pools, and dramatic architectural features that reflect the brand’s commitment to high-impact design — qualities already seen in Ibiza’s playful room categories like “Fashion Victim” and “Anything Can Happen Suite.”
The resort will be packed with amenities, including:
- A health club and spa
- Multiple swimming pools – rooftop, plunge, and beyond
- Oyster Terrace – an elevated deck with coastal views
- The Unexpected Pool Area – a key lifestyle feature
Dining will be a central part of the experience, with all-day dining with outdoor terrace, beach club, rooftop restaurant and bar, lobby bar, and two-level outdoor bar.
While the final line-up of restaurants hasn’t been revealed yet, it’s expected to echo Ibiza’s varied culinary offerings — like teppanyaki counters, seafood buffets, and creative poolside ceviche bars.
The Ibiza location has already set the tone with its open-air performances, live cooking stations, and energetic dining environments, drawing global acts like Calvin Harris and Armin van Buuren. If the Ras Al Khaimah outpost follows suit, visitors can expect a resort where music and lifestyle converge, offering something far beyond a standard beach hotel.
