Aiming to be Ras Al Khaimah’s most exclusive resort, Banyan Tree Al Wadi soft-opened on New Year’s Day.
Owned by Rakeen Development and managed by Singapore-based Banyan Tree Holdings, the luxury desert spa resort offers a unique retreat within its own nature reserve, exciting outdoor adventures, beach access and an 18-hole championship golf course.
Located in Wadi Khadeja, the protected enclave of the sturdy, evergreen ghaf tree, the resort is a 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport and 20 km from Ras Al Khaimah city centre.
“My team and I are proud to be part of such a unique project and we look forward to creating memorable and exceptional experiences for our guests,” said general manager Pascal Eppink.
Banyan Tree Al Wadi comprises 70 Al Rimal deluxe pool villas spanning around 158 sq m, as well as 16 Al Khaimah and 15 Al Sahari tented pool villas. This oasis of indulgence offers a contemporary adaptation of traditional Arabic architecture amidst miles of rolling sand dunes, creating a comfortably seamless experience of staying in the desert.
A tribute to the heritage of the region – from the tented design that is inspired by local Bedouin tribes and nomadic lifestyle, to traditional mud brick buildings – the villas also feature elaborate Arabic touches of lattice woodwork, stylised motifs, intricate carvings in Arabesque design and high ceilings.
All 101 villas offer a tranquil view of the desert oasis while each has a private outdoor pool. The Al Khaimah and Al Sahari tented pool villas also feature a generously-sized bathroom where spa treatments can be offered in privacy.
Banyan Tree Spa Al Wadi is the group’s first Banyan Tree spa in the United Arab Emirates. spanning 3,000 sq m, the spa features 10 discreet indoor treatment pavilions, complemented by signature Asian-inspired massages by therapists trained at the Banyan Tree Spa Academy in Phuket, Thailand. Scheduled to open in March 2010, the Rainforest hydrothermal circuit, with a hammam and vitality pool, will complete the total wellness experience.
There is an elegant banquet hall which can seat up to 140 people, as well as meeting rooms for smaller groups of up to 20 people and four food and beverage venues offering contemporary Thai cuisine and Southeast Asian specialties, international selections and cocktails and shisha at Moon Bar, the rooftop lounge.
Ras Al Khaimah is renowned for its pristine natural attractions. Here, eco-explorers can seek adventure in activities such as falconry, camel riding, wadi drives, or simply meander along rivers on a dhow cruise.
The property spans more than 100 hectares, of which 60 hectares are set aside for the dedicated nature reserve – home to local desert wildlife such as Arabian gazelles and oryx.
And the Al Hamra Golf Course is an 18-hole championship course, designed by Peter Harradine, built around a large open sea water lagoon with four interconnected sub lagoons. It measures 7,325 yards at full length, with five varying tee options.
To celebrate the soft launch, Banyan Tree Al Wadi is offering special promotions until the end of February.