The hype
Travelers appreciate the bargain price and friendly staff (shoutout to Mohammed Riad), but often feel misled by the 'resort' label.
Zen Resort Sahl Hasheesh By Tbh Hotels
$40-65/ night
Book this if You want to access the exclusive Sahl Hasheesh neighborhood on a backpacker budget and don't mind taking a shuttle to the beach.
Why People Love It
- Extremely affordable rates for the area
- Quiet, secluded location away from the noisy strip
- Spacious rooms with sunrise views over the Red Sea
Quick Take: A budget apartment complex masquerading as a resort—you're paying for the zip code, not the luxury.
Reviewed by @chopandtravel: I stayed at Zen Resort for a quiet getaway and was blown away by how spotless everything was. The remote vibe is perfect for decompressing, and playing Padel with a sea view was a total highlight. Definitely grab a Junior Suite for the extra space!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'heated' pool is often freezing in winter, and the food selection at the buffet is repetitive and sometimes cold.
- You are a diver who just needs a cheap bed and a shower
- You prefer a dead-silent location over nightlife
- You are renting a car and plan to explore beyond the hotel
Cleanliness & Maintenance
4.5
- Housekeeping: Hit or miss. Daily service occurs, but often misses dust under beds or corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: Grout often shows age/mildew. Water pressure is inconsistent.
- Maintenance: Signs of wear are common—peeling paint, scuffed furniture, and rattling ACs.
- Linens & towels: Towels are often described as grey or worn. Sheets may be pilled or stained.
- Odors & scents: Ground floor rooms frequently suffer from a musty, damp smell.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Loud, aging air conditioning units
- Echoing hallways due to tile floors
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is located within the 'Azzurra' residential compound.
- Wi-Fi is free but cuts out frequently, especially during power fluctuations.
- The 'gym' is often a shared facility in the compound, not inside the hotel building.
What to pack
- Beach towel (hotel ones can be worn/thin)
- Mosquito repellent (essential for evenings on the balcony)
- Earplugs (for the AC hum)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Deluxe Sea View (Upper Floor) for the best sunrise vistas and slightly better airflow
- Junior Suite if you need space to spread out dive gear
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor rooms (prone to dampness and lack of privacy)
- Rooms near the main pool if you want to nap during the day
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on the top floor with a direct sea view to avoid dampness issues. Please ensure the AC unit has been recently serviced for noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the hotel actually on the beach?
No. It is about 2km inland. You must take the free hotel shuttle or a golf cart to reach the private beach area.
Is the pool heated?
Technically yes, but guests frequently report it is too cold to swim in during winter months (Dec-March).
Is the food good?
It's edible but basic. Expect a limited buffet selection. You are better off eating at the Old Town restaurants for dinner.
Can I walk to the Old Town?
It's a long walk (20-30 mins) and the road can be dark at night. Better to take a shuttle or taxi.
Is it safe?
Yes, Sahl Hasheesh is a gated, high-security community. The area is very safe.
Why does the name keep changing?
The property seems to be undergoing a rebrand or management change, often appearing as 'Ajira Resort' on booking engines.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The shuttle to the beach has a schedule—snap a photo of it at reception so you don't get stranded.
- ✨
You can rent a golf cart from the Azzurra compound to get around Sahl Hasheesh independently.
- ✨
Ask for an omelet at breakfast—it's the freshest thing you'll get.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'sea view' is distant—you are looking over other buildings and desert to see the water.
💡Power outages can happen, taking the Wi-Fi down with them.
💡There is no ATM on site; bring cash for tips and small purchases.
💡The bathroom showers often have weak pressure or temperature fluctuations.
💡You might be the only guest in the restaurant during low season.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Zen Resort Sahl Hasheesh By Tbh Hotels is located and what's nearby.