The Ritz-Carlton Ras al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert ★★★★★

“When the wind's from the east and the sun's from the west
And the sand in the glass is right…

Standing proud amidst 100 hectares of sandy wilderness, the Banyan Tree Al Wadi, the United Arab Emirates’ first integrated desert resort, certainly makes a dramatic first impression. Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Al Hajar Mountains, the hotel offers atmospheric tented villas, oases of true calm dotted with traditional Arabic touches such as stylised motifs and beautiful arabesque carvings. After settling in and lounging around a while on your comfortable bed in your silky soft bathrobe, you’ll be dying to try out the villa’s luxurious amenities: the opulent bathroom and gleaming private pool will make it a stay you’ll remember for years to come.

Come on down stop on by
Hop a carpet and fly…

The wondrous essence of the desert permeates everyday life here; the plethora of activities offered by the hotel feature several once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, such as riding horses and camels across the vast sandy plains. Courtesy of VeryChic, you’ll also have the chance to watch an exhilarating 45-minute falconry show and partake in feeding native owls. Even as night falls and guest’s thoughts turn to their rumbling stomachs, the glorious landscape still takes centre stage: at the Al Waha restaurant, the delicious cuisine is complemented by a magnificent view onto the mystical sand dunes below. There’s cuisine to fulfil every desire here: tasty Thai in Safran, oriental specialities in the dramatic Safran Tower and barbecued delights served up in the Al Wadi nature reserve.

…to another Arabian night.”

So, are you ready to embark on the Arabian adventure of a lifetime? Get swept off your feet by the mystical magic and luxury of the Banyan Tree Al Wadi and live out your very own Arabian nights.

Aladdin, 1992