By Sunanda Ghosh
Published on October 1, 2013

BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT AND SPA, DUBAI

Welcome to Bab Al Shams! Situated in the heart of the desert and nestled in the dunes of Dubai, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is the ultimate luxury retreat. Surrounded by gently sloping dunes, Bab Al Shams offers its guests a one of its kind traditional desert experience that is true to the culture and heritage of the UAE. With its literal translation from Arabic meaning ‘gateway to the sun’, Bab Al Shams is built in an Arabic fort setting — in and around an oasis. Offering the ultimate in comfort and entertainment, at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa your experience will be enhanced by history, splendour and magnificence.
CONTACT: 04-3813231

HILTON RAS AL KHAIMAH RESORT & SPA

Set in a verdant private bay on the northern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, the stunning Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa overlooks the glittering Arabian Sea. The resort offers chalet-style accommodation and sea-view rooms, each with access to a kilometre of pristine white beach. You can indulge in the luxurious spa, which features a traditional hamam and nine treatment rooms, savour cuisines from around the world in one of our 13 bars and restaurants or simply watch the sun set as you sip a cocktail on the white sandy beach. Yes, this is definitely another getaway that makes you feel like you’re on a tropical island.
CONTACT: 07-228 8844

QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA, ABU DHABI

Experience unparalleled luxury and comfort amid the mystic desert charm of Abu Dhabi’s Empty Quarter! Located in the legendary Liwa Desert, one of the largest uninterrupted sand deserts in the world, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara embraces the epic adventures of this evocative landscape by providing a luxury oasis for discerning travellers Ride on camels over sun-soaked dunes or soak in the pool while desert wildlife grazes in the shade below. Be inspired by the glorious Arabian décor that channels one of the world’s most ancient cultures.
CONTACT: 02-886 2088

THE COVE ROTANA RESORT, RAS AL KHAIMAH

With 600 metres of pristine beach and located on an idyllic water inlet on the Ras Al Khaimah beach-front, The Cove, with its private villas and landscaped surroundings overlooking the Arabian Gulf, offers a private getaway that is unique. Guests can unwind and enjoy
pool-side dining at Laguna Bay pool bar or sip on tropical cocktails and nibble on delicious snacks at the Breakers beach bar. Guests can also savour a mix of traditional and modern Mediterranean dishes with an Italian emphasis at the upscale dining restaurant Basilico.
CONTACT: 800-768262

BANYAN TREE AL WADI, RAS AL KHAIMAH

Amid stretches of desert sand in tranquil Wadi Khadeja, the protected enclave of the evergreen ghaf tree, lies the exclusive resort of Banyan Tree Al Wadi. It’s the first desert resort in the UAE to offer an all-pool villa concept, complete with 3,960 square metres of Asian-inspired hydrotherapy spa facilities, a dedicated nature reserve, a private beach club and an 18-hole championship golf course. This oasis of indulgence spans over 100 hectares, of which 60 hectares are dedicated as a nature reserve — home to local desert wildlife such as Arabian gazelles, camels and oryxes, offering guests a unique opportunity to interact with and observe these gentle creatures up close.
CONTACT: 07-206 7777

CITY SEASONS HOTEL, AL AIN

Tucked away in the beautiful green city of Al Ain, the City Seasons Hotel Al Ain’s cosy suites combine comfort and space to offer a perfect getaway during the New Year. The hotel’s popular New Seasons Restaurant serves a variety of cuisines from the traditional to diverse flavours of fusion dishes. A relaxing weekend with the family would not be complete without time to enjoy a leisurely swim, have a sauna or indulge at the health club. And if time allows take some time out to enjoy the sun bed terrace. Indeed this hotel promises a service that reflects a blend of Arab heritage and modern comfort.
CONTACT: 03-755 0220

KEMPINSKI HOTEL, AJMAN

Time for you, time for family, time for love…. You want freedom from the daily stress and a retreat into barefoot chic. At Kempinski Hotel Ajman, situated on the end of the Ajman Corniche, you will find time — use it as you wish. Boasting a 500-metre stretch of pristine beach, Kempinski Hotel Ajman is a short drive from the city. Walk along the soft white sandy beach that exults privacy. Arabic delicacies, Balinese or Swedish massages for two and other pampering extras await you. Enjoy perks such as free internet access and an hour’s bowling with complimentary beverages etc. Diving must be booked a minimum of 24 hours in advance.
CONTACT: 06-714 5555