Escape Dubai.
Wouldn’t it be nice to do two hotels in one weekend that are only a short drive from Dubai?
Well you can make that fantasy a reality, as we found out during a recent staycation in Ras Al Khaimah with Ritz Carlton.
The hotel giant has been transforming two properties in the Emirate into luxury 5-star escapes, offering you a chance to chill by the beach at The Ritz-Carlton, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach and gaze at the stars surrounded by the desert dunes at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert.
Sand wonderland
You can kick off your staycation at either of the two locations, but we suggest starting at the Al Wadi extensive property. Once you arrive to the 500-hectare protected nature reserve within Wadi Khadeja, the first thing that strikes you is how far away you feel from the hustle and bustle of the city and its glittering sky scarpers.
Inspired by traditional Bedouin tents, each villa offers its own pool deck overlooking the desert, a spacious lounge area and an extensive bathroom with everything you could possibly need. Treat yourself by booking into either the Al Khaimah or Al Sahari tented pool villas as they offer extra space and an impressive outdoor terrace to enjoy chilling on a maxi bean bag under the sun.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa is the highlight offering a an oasis of serenity featuring lavish treatment pavilions and state-of-the-art hydrotherapy facilities. You have to dedicate at least an hour to the Rainforest Experience where you are invited to walk through various sauna’s, steam rooms and themed showers before plunging into the large hydro pool. Its a treat like no other and you’ll be hard pressed to find something as indulgent.
Other activities include a bird show where expert handlers talk you through the owls and the falcons they look after and you also get to see a falcon in hunt mode, diving from great heights to catch the treat that the handler swings on a leather string. It’s truly exhilarating.
There are also nature tours and each villa comes with bikes so you can cycle around the property spotting Arabian oryx’s and gazelles. Ritz Kids aged four and above can take advantage of the activity centre that includes a playground, archery station and even a visit to the horse stables.
There are also plenty of dining options with the recently renovated Farmhouse being our top pick. The decor is decadent yet modern while the menu focuses on contemporary dishes of wild meats, homegrown vegetables and other fresh ingredients. For sundowners and jaw-dropping views of the sunset, head to the Moon Bar. Breakfast is served at the Kaheela restaurant and once you had your fill of their generous buffet, you can jump back in your car or hop on the shuttle service to your next stop.
Hear the waves
Al Hamra Beach is an intimate property overlooking the Arabian Gulf. On check in you can either take the buggy or sail on a boat to the hotel – we suggest taking the latter as it adds to the experience.
All of the 32 beach villas offer a private pool and face the blue waters. Our favourite feature was the outdoor bathtub and shower. The rooms are bright offering plenty of natural light and space, even if they are a little more compact than at Al Wadi.
There is only one restaurant but the menu is extensive and their Friday brunch is impressive, especially the grill stations they set up on the beach. The spa is found on the far end of the resort with each treatment room located in it’s own hut. There’s also a dedicated 24-hour fitness gym pavilion.
Spend 120 minutes of your stay on a Natural Ocean Experience – a marine inspired body treatment. Harnessing the benefits of the ocean, the therapists uses sea salts to smooth the skin as well as active marine minerals for skin nourishment. A tailored massage follow that will restore a deep sense of relaxation – exactly what you need after a hard work week.
For more information, call 00971 7 206 777 or visit ritzcarlton.com
What are you waiting for?
Media: Supplied
