“Sharjah is one undiscovered Emirate that is starting to receive more attention than it deserves,” says Nezha Aanou Interim Hotel Manager of The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah and we couldn’t agree more.
With a rich history, Sharjah has much to offer to those who live here in the UAE and around the globe when it comes to exploring new landscapes and immersing themselves in the emirate’s culture.
Echoing the unique culture and history of the emirate, The Chedi Al Bait brings the history of the UAE to life, as Aanou says.
Emirates Woman sat down with Aanou to discover what sets The Chedi Al Bait apart and why it’s the perfect place to unwind and reflect this Ramadan.
Can you talk us through the history of the property?
The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah is situated in one of the UAE’s most ambitious historical restoration project managed by Shurooq (Sharjah Development and Investment Authority) known as the “Heart of Sharjah”. The hotel was built upon the foundations of centuries-old houses that once belonged to the Al Midfa family, they made an impact culturally, intellectually and politically on Sharjah’s history with innovative achievements in publishing, government and business. Under the guidance of GHM (General Hotel Management), these carefully preserved historic structures along with new buildings have been transformed into 53 elegant guest rooms and suites where Arabic influences meet the brand’s legendary Asian design elements.
What sets The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah apart from others in the emirate?
The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah is a unique development that brings the history of the United Arab Emirates to life. It is a restoration project of old Emirati houses which makes it one of a kind in the whole region. The whole concept is to create a destination by combining luxury hospitality and heritage in one. We want our guests to experience true Emirati living and immerse them into the perfect blend of old and new, plus we make sure to give heartfelt hospitality and care to all our guests.
With clients visiting from the globe over, how do you ensure a bespoke experience for each stay?
We are continuously conceptualising unique offers and experiences to highlight the best of what the property can offer. The interiors are traditional, yet they offer modern touches through technology, and not to mention luxurious amenities and services.
From where around the world do you get guests visiting from?
The majority of our guests are from the region, predominantly locals or UAE and GCC residents. The hotel also attracts a fair share of Asian, European market from Germany, France and Scandinavia.
Sharjah as a whole has so much to offer in terms of culture and heritage. To you, what makes the emirate special?
Sharjah is one undiscovered Emirate that is starting to receive more attention than it deserves. We are located in the Heart of Sharjah, where all the history, heritage, culture and art is available in great abundance. UAE residents who come to Sharjah for the first time are often surprised at what It has to offer and how much they have been missing out on. Especially if you choose to stay at The Chedi Al Bait! Heart of Sharjah and Shurooq are transforming Sharjah’s landscape and cultural scene, to everyone who is still doubting whether to visit Sharjah or not, I’d say it’s a must.
What elements of The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah stand out to you?
It is the hotel’s iconic structures and unique design. The heritage houses which once belonged to the Al Midfa family. The only remaining round wind tower (barjeel) in the UAE, which is nearly a century old, it’s a true icon of Emirati history. Another is the Elephant Door which leads into the Bait Ibrahim Al Midfa where The Library and The Museum are located.
With Ramadan fast approaching, what are you offering to guests to have a reflective and relaxing stay?
The hotel is the perfect escape this season of reflection, an ideal place for the whole family to experience complete relaxation. We have room packages and promotions which guests can enjoy. Moreover, our in-house guests on fasting can opt to have our Suhoor Tray as a breakfast replacement served in the comfort of their own rooms.
Our culinary team has crafted a flavourful six-course Iftar and Suhoor menus. A generous mix of traditional delicacies and Middle Eastern favourites served at The Arabic Restaurant. It is a feast designed for the entire family to enjoy. Our Iftar and Suhoor for adults are priced at AED 195 per person, and kids from 6 to 11 y/o will get 50% discount (inclusive of 10% service charge and 5% VAT).
*Iftar from sunset to 8:00pm
*Suhoor from 11:00pm to 1:00am
*Suhoor tray (breakfast replacement) from 11:00pm to 3:00am
How do you approach client engagement and client retention?
The hotel is a home away from home, where everyone feels special and cared for, every attention to detail, surprising food and beverage offerings are what makes us different from the rest and what makes our guests come back. The moment guests arrive, we greet them with ‘Welcome Home’ and that is not only in words but it’s an experience that we offer to our guests and colleagues. The reviews that we get from our valued guests are a testament to that.
