Nurai is an island just off the coast of Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates. It is home to a collection of beautiful sea-front private villas and a resort that was recently opened to the public called Zaya Nurai. I stayed at one of the resort's private villas and it was an unforgettable experience.

To get to the island you need to first go to the Welcome Center, where they put you on a boat that departs to the island every half an hour. Once there you are instantly greeted by the friendliest and most welcoming of staff who bring you to your villa.

Every villa on the island has sea-front views, meaning you can step out of your private pool onto an immaculate white sandy beach shared by all resort guests. The bed had a direct view onto the pool and beach, and opening the electric curtains each morning upon waking was an experience anyone would like to get used to!

The service at the resort was excellent and the staff was very attentive. Massages and other spa treatments were on offer in the privacy of your own villa, and one day I opted for the former, poolside of course! Imagine receiving a massage in these surroundings, with nothing but the noise of the sea gently ebbing and flowing in the background: total zen-like tranquility.

During my stay the timepiece of choice was once again the Broker by Schroeder, but this time the gold-plated version. Of course time was of no importance in these surroundings, and at no point did I set it correctly!

I hope this article inspires you to make a visit to this resort - you definitely won't regret it!