Amid stretches of desert sand in tranquil Wadi Khadeja, the protected enclave of the evergreen ghaf tree, lies the new exclusive resort of Banyan Tree Al Wadi.
Banyan Tree Al Wadi is the first desert resort in the United Arab Emirates to offer an all-pool villa concept, complete with 3,000 sqm 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.
The resort is a 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport and a 20-minute drive from the vibrant Ras Al Khaimah city centre.
Hotel Accommodation
Al Rimal, Deluxe Pool Villa:
With awe-inspiring views of desert greenery, tinged with the terracotta hues of scorched desert sand, the 158 sqm Al Rimal Deluxe Pool Villa depicts the traditional mud brick architecture of Ras Al Khaimah. Arabesque-inspired doors open into a wide passageway leading to the walk-in wardrobe, whilst the soaring high-ceiling adds grandeur to the wood motif touches that can be found throughout the villa. The perfect venue to indulge in the quietude of desert surroundings, the villa features a picturesque garden, private sundeck and pool.
Al Khaimah, Tented Pool Villa:
Designed to emulate the nomadic tent style of Bedouin tribes, the 253sqm Al Khaimah Tented Pool Villa is the elemental inner sanctum for world-weary nomads. Set amidst the vast realms of the Arabian desert, day-beds and sun lounges complete this oasis of serenity, where one can seek reprieve from the desert sun by dipping into the inviting waters of the private pool.
Al Sahari, Tented Pool Villa:
Resting dunes-apart, the Al Sahari Tented Pool Villa offers a romantic hideaway and a heightened sense of being. Flowing canopied ceilings create an intimate space where modern luxuries merge seamlessly alongside Arabic artwork and antiques. Designed to promote escapism, indulge in a selection of pampering spa treatments in the villa?s dedicated spa treatment room or unwind in the pool overlooking undulating desert sand.
Hotel Restaurants and Bars
Al Waha:
Located off the resort's main block, Al Waha, meaning Oasis in Arabic, serves popular international fare and local Arabic specialties. A spectacular display of modern yet Arabseque interior design, diners can choose to dine indoors where floor-to-ceiling windows sets the stage for metres-high sand dunes, or on the outdoor terrace where an Arabic grill and spit-roast holds court. The buffet line-up features live cooking stations including an ice-cream marble slab, and tandoor and cookie oven. An extensive a la carte menu will also be presented.
Saffron:
Banyan Tree's signature restaurant offering authentic Thai cuisine and Southeast Asian delicacies. Overlooking the nature reserve's watering hole where the wildlife gathers, dining conversations will turn naturally towards the antics of these nomadic creatures. Alternatively, Saffron Tower, designed in the style of an Arabic watchtower, offers a romantic meal for two under a brilliant sky of dazzling stars.
Samar Lounge:
A double-storey cove with atmospheric lighting and intimate cushioned corners, Samar Lounge features an exceptional wine selection from across the globe, as well as fine cigars and signature cocktails.
Moon Bar:
Moon Bar, located on the upper deck of Samar Lounge, is an exquisitely designed roof terrace lounge serving shisha. Overlooking the sprawling desert and rolling dunes, it is the perfect stage for watching a beautiful sunset while lounging on the spacious daybeds, with a drink and shisha in hand.
Destination Dining:
Set atop vast sand dunes, this unique experience offers a night of desert dining under the vast Arabian sky. In true Bedouin-style, sit across a brilliant campfire while partaking in traditional dishes, song and dance, marking an exquisite and memorable dinner.
Meal Plan Information
Buffet Breakfast will be served at "Al Waha" All day dining restaurant.
Hotel Activities and Entertainment
Activity Centre:
The adventure starts at the Activity Centre! From educational classes in desert flora and fauna to interactions with traditional falcons and indigenous owls at the world-class falconry centre - The Mews, guests can participate in a multitude of activities, including horseback-riding, camel safaris and bike trails. An archery range is also on site for guests wishing to perfect their aim.
Beach Club:
Located within a 20-minute drive from the resort, the Beach Club offers a selection of recreational activities like snorkeling, water-skiing, wake-boarding and sailing for enjoyment in the shimmering turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf. Schooner-chartering, fishing and scuba-diving trips can also be organised. Guests who prefer to lounge by the private beach may do so in comfort the Beach Club's bar.
Health Club:
A fully-equipped gymnasium boasting the latest in cardiovascular technology, as well as an aerobics studio and yoga room. Our gym and aerobics instructors will be able to offer tailor-made fitness programs. For a different setting, yoga classes at sunrise will also be offered out in the surrounding desert landscape.
Nature Reserve:
Indigenous desert wildlife like Arabian oryxes and Arabian gazelles roam free in their 60 hectare home within Banyan Tree Al Wadi. Guided walking trails amongst ghaf trees and native bushes gives a glimpse into the animals' natural dwellings, while a specially-designed hide for observing wildlife, mere footsteps away from the water hole, allows for close encounters without startling them. The bird-watching program on offer enables spotting of breeds such as the Indian Roller, Blue-Cheeked Bee-Eater and the Arabian Babbler, just to name a few.
Banyan Tree Gallery:
A lifestyle gallery showcasing indigenous arts and crafts from community projects worldwide.
Hotel Children Information
Kid's Club Activities:
Children from 4-11 years old are given complimentary activities during the stay such as coloring, healthy habit, story telling, games & toys, dune castle, fun exercises & basic archery. Other than these activities mentioned are chargeable.
Timings: Morning Session = 8am to 10am and Afternoon Session = 1pm to 3pm (for the schedule of activities, please refer to the front desk)
Golf Information
The nearby Tower Links Golf Club's course meanders through a mangrove reserve with the Hajar Mountains serving as a majestic backdrop.
Spa Information
Banyan Tree Spa Al Wadi:
The spa features 10 treatment pavilions, complemented by a state-of-the-art hydrothermal circuit with a hammam and vitality pool. Guests can experience a range of award-winning spa therapies delivered by the intuitive touch of skillful therapists to rejuvenate the senses. Banyan Tree Spa therapists undergo formal training at Banyan Tree Spa Academies in Indonesia, Thailand and China, ensuring that each spa experience is of a high level of consistency and quality that Banyan Tree Spa is renowned for.
A Green Hotel
Green Imperative Fund (GIF):
Banyan Tree Resorts and Resorts are committed to protecting the environment and uplifting the communities around them. The Green Imperative Fund works on the basis of guest contributions of USD 2nett per villa per night. This amount will automatically bill you although you are at liberty to opt out of the program anytime during your stay. Details about the Green Imperative Fund will be communicated to you in various forms, including but not limited to in-villa turndown gifts with environmental messages.
Hotel Additional Guest Services
Business & Functions:
A team of highly-experienced event planners, offering specially-tailored wedding or meeting packages, will strive towards making your event a memorable one. Offering an exclusive space for weddings or corporate groups in the desert terrain of Ras Al Khaimah, different setups ranging from theatre seating to banquet tables can be arranged.
The elegant Banyan Hall measuring 180 sqm can accommodate up to 140 persons, while the meeting rooms Najah 1 & 2 has the flexibility to be partitioned into a space seating up to 60. Fully equipped with the latest audio visual equipment and LCD projectors, further secretarial support will be provided by specially-trained services associates.
Transfer to Hotel
One Way Private transfer is included in price.
Hotel Local Attractions
Tower Links Golfclub - 3 kilometres (2 miles)
Dreamland Aqua Park - 15 kilometres (9 miles)
Musandam Sea Adventure Tourism - 15 kilometres (9 miles)