Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah in UAE

March 29, 2021

Review

Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah

Fairytale magic in the Al Wadi Desert

Everyone should have a taste of the infinite emptiness of the desert at some point in their lives and the Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah in UAE provides Lawrence of Arabia dreams within a spectacular setting.  This luxurious Bedouin-style wilderness resort is nestled amongst a protective nature reserve spanning 500 hectares (1,235 acres). Surrounded by gently undulating dunes the colour of golden terracotta, the resort boasts 100 villas.  Some of these villas offer spectacular and unique tented accommodation with expansive views over the Al Wadi Desert.  Traditional watchtowers dot the landscape which are partially lit in the evenings with charming lanterns, adding to the magical atmosphere of the outdoors.

History

Formerly the Banyan Tree Al Wadi, this property is now a Ritz-Carlton Partner Hotel.  The property takes its influences from local ancient nomadic Bedouin tribes which is evident in the architecture and decor.

Location

Just a 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, the Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah is conveniently located in the northernmost emirate in the UAE.  Its secluded location brings a feeling of remoteness, offering a peaceful and tranquil Bedouin-style oasis. The resort sits within a 500 hectare protected Al Wadi Nature Reserve.  Guests have the opportunity to discover wildlife such as Arabian oryx, gazelles and antelopes that wander freely throughout the reserve.  Airport pick-up and drop-off can be arranged through the hotel directly.

The emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is recognised as an escape for local, regional and international visitors who are looking for untouched nature and unique experiences.

Room Types 

Of the 100 independent private villas, the accommodation closest to the main buildings takes its influence from traditional Arabian mud-brick architecture while others are tented. 

Mud Brick Villas

The mud brick villas comprise a hallway leading into a walk-in wardrobe area, a bedroom with tented effect ceiling and a bed so cosy you won’t want to get up in the morning.  The bathrooms are incredibly spacious offering a large stand-alone tub with Asprey amenities and a glass-enclosed rain shower. There are decorative lanterns and intricate Arabesque fretwork panelling to complete the look.  A charming living area with a sofa bed offers double doors to the outside patio and private plunge pool, all of which overlook the desert landscape.  

Helpful Tip:

Check out the positioning of each villa.  Some will have shade over the private pool at different times of the day.  It is also worth noting that these villas do not have clear sweeping views over the dunes.  Most have trees, desert vegetation and hills for a view.

Tented Villas

The most unique accommodation are the Tented Pool Villas which are dotted around the property, offering complete privacy and seclusion.

We chose a tented villa, which provided one of the most incredible experiences we have enjoyed at any hotel.  A private entrance with gate and stairs leads up to the entrance door of the tent.  Once inside, you are surrounded by windows facing the front with views of your private infinity pool and the dunes.  At a spacious 2723 square feet, you are never lacking for space, although the stunning outdoor private deck and pool will probably be where you choose to spend most of your time. 

These villas are very impressive and a tremendous amount of thought has gone into the elegant and plush decor.  There is a glass-enclosed rain shower large enough to fit a family, dressing room with two double wardrobes, enormous stand-alone bathtub, tented ceilings all steeped in Bedouin design.  The highlight is undoubtedly the massive private pool which is yours to enjoy all hours of the day and night.  There is nothing more magical than a private midnight dip under a carpet of glittering stars or waking up to the site of an antelope herd making their way past your windows.

Service

Service is befitting a Ritz-Carlton hotel.  Professional, discreet, warm and inviting although it can be a little slow at times, specifically relating to the availability of the golf buggies used for transport around the resort. 

Restaurants and Bars 

Restaurants

During our stay, only Farmhouse and Kaheela were operating.  The rustic atmosphere of Farmhouse is charming and the restaurant showcases a gorgeous terrace and bar to watch the sun set.  It serves meats from its own smokehouse, fresh fish, home-grown salad and vegetables.

Kaheela offers international breakfasts with indoor and outdoor seating.  Dishes are inspired by Middle East and Indian cuisine and casual BBQ for lunches and dinners. 

Al Waha offers International and Arabic cuisine although this was closed during our visit.

Afternoon Tea

Guests are served Arabian afternoon tea in the beautiful light-filled Lobby Lounge. There are also numerous opportunities for private dining in one of the watchtowers.  For a really unforgettable experience, enjoy a private BBQ on the sand dunes surrounded by a thousand stars.

Flies can be a bit of nuisance due to the nearby stables and camel farm.  However, we did not experience this during our stay. 

Bars

There are two bars for tapas and cocktails.  Samar Lounge provides a Moroccan-inspired atmosphere while the Moon Bar on the roof terrace of Samar Lounge is a perfect place to sit back and enjoy the stunning sunsets and breathtaking stargazing.

Family Activities

The resort provides a Ritz Kids programme for children aged four and older.  This unique programme aims to involve children with nature and desert traditions through fun activities.  There is also a kids club aimed at 5 to 12 year olds.

Some of the educational activities on offer include archery, horseback riding, mini falconry where kids experience these amazing creatures in an interactive show, picnics in the desert, fish feeding, sunset camel rides over the dunes, desert safaris and desert hikes.  There is also a hands-on pony experience where children learn how to take care of them through washing, grooming, and riding. In addition to all this, the resort provides magical story telling under the stars and a multitude of stargazing opportunities.

All children receive a welcome soft toy at check.  This surprise gift brings about much excitement before even getting to your room.  Cots and children’s menus are available at the resort and babysitting services are available upon request.

Facilities

One of the highlights of this resort is its award-winning spa.  Guests can enjoy a unique Rainforest experience with a circuit of 16 different hydrotherapies.  Wander from room to room and enjoy affusion showers, aroma steam, brine cavern, bucket drench shower, grotto steam, hammam, vitality pool with six different acupressure jet stations, a herbal sauna, ice igloo, rain walk, sauna, sole therapy and a tropical rain shower.  A haven of peace and tranquility, this is the perfect place to unwind.

Guests can use a large temperature controlled communal pool with jacuzzi.  However, the jacuzzi was under repair during our stay so were unable to enjoy it.  An al fresco bar and dining service at the pool area is also offered.

What made it special

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah has a unique combination of impressive accommodation as well as offering diverse educational activities for children.  

Our tented villa was outstanding in every respect, offering spacious living areas and a pool overlooking the sand dunes.  We could have happily sat around the pool all day just watching the desert creatures wander past, but we made a point to enjoy the other activities on offer as they were too good to pass up.

The educational opportunities for children really stood out at this resort.  Whatever activity our children decided to do, they learned so much about the desert and the nature that surrounds it.  Having stables onsite means that horses, ponies and camels are readily available for riding lessons and treks.  The animals are extremely well cared for and non-hotel guests come from all areas to take riding lessons here as well.

Another highlight is the award-wining spa.   For stressed out parents, the unique rainforest experience is ideal for some rest and relaxation and not to be missed.

What we think

This impressive oasis offers families a mixture of lavish contemporary design mixed with the traditional nomadic lifestyles of local tribes.  With several desert resorts available in UAE, this resort definitely shines as one of the best even though it is a relative newcomer to the scene.  With its stunning rooms and magical atmosphere, this is a place where you can be as busy or as relaxed as you like. 

Ideal for both couples and families, it is a great contrast to the city life of Dubai or Abu Dhabi.  It’s also a perfect place to escape the world as part of a two centre holiday.  The resort is fairly spread out and guests are encouraged to use the bicycles allocated to each villa.  If you have a young child, it is possible to get a baby seat but this would have to be arranged in advance.  Otherwise, you will have to rely on the hotel buggies and the wait for these can try the most patient of people.  This is not a resort where anyone is in a hurry, so on site transport needs to be planned and organised in advance. 

Conclusion

It’s hard to beat the stunning desert setting and wildlife meandering past our villa as we lounge in the idyllic pool. Early mornings at the Ritz-Carlton Ras al-Khaimah are spent watching the moon setting to the backdrop of a warm golden desert, emitting an otherworldly feeling. Thoughts of Mars flit through my mind until a Desert Oryx pokes its head above the pool, swiftly bringing me back to earth.  The mixture of ancient and modern makes for a tranquil and private family break, full of memories accentuated by the echoing grandeur of the dunes lit by a captivating sunset.

Al Wadi Nature Reserve, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

00 971 7 206 7777

ritzcarlton.com