BANYAN TREE AL WADI, RAS AL KHAIMAH – AN OASIS OF INDULGENCE!
BANYAN TREE AL WADI, RAS AL KHAIMAH
Amid stretches of desert sand in tranquil Wadi Khadeja, the protected enclave of the evergreen ghaf tree, lies the new exclusive resort 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 Asian-inspired hydrotherapy spa facilities, a private beach club, and a dedicated nature reserve within the resort grounds, all located a mere 20-minute drive away from 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 oryx, 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, a 2 hour drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport, and a 20-minute drive from the vibrant Ras Al Khaimah city centre.
A contemporary adaptation of traditional Arabic architecture amidst miles of rolling sand dunes:
With awe-inspiring views of the lush oasis, tinged with the terracotta hues of the scorched desert sand, Banyan Tree Al Wadi 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 inspired by local tribes and nomadic lifestyle, to traditional mud brick buildings – each villa also features 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 for quiet contemplation, while the external area of each villa features a private pool enveloped by verdant gardens. The Tented Pool Villa also features a dedicated spa treatment room, and an outdoor shower amidst lush surrounds.
Destination Dining offers a night of desert dining under the vast Arabian sky:
Located off the resort’s main block, Al Waha, meaning ‘Oasis’ in Arabic, serves popular international fare and local Arabic specialities. Featuring live cooking stations in the buffet line-up, an extensive à la carte menu will also be presented.
Saffron is 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. Saffron is open exclusively for dinner, from 6:30 pm to midnight, daily.
Set atop vast sand dunes, Destination Dining 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.
Lounges & Bars:
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, 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.
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 give 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 programme 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 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 skilful 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.
The Health Club features a fully-equipped gymnasium boasting the latest in cardiovascular technology, as well as an aerobics studio and yoga room. The gym and aerobics instructors will be able to offer tailor-made fitness programmes. For a different setting, yoga classes at sunrise will also be offered in the surrounding desert landscape.
Beach Club:
Located within a 20-minute drive from the resort, the Beach Club offers a selection of recreational activities like snorkelling, 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 the comfort of the Beach Club’s bar.


































