When it comes to planning a staycation, the beauty of the desert is often overlooked; resident sun-seekers typically flock to beachside escapes in search of R&R rather than opting for the raw serenity of a desertscape.
The sun sinking behind golden sands, the song of wind flowing over the dunes, clear skies that allow the stars to shine through. At The Ritz-Carlton, Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert, serenity is delivered in spades. Only an hour’s drive from Dubai, the property’s seclusion makes for a nearby getaway that feels worlds away. Though there are plenty of accommodation options here, the new Signature Villas are the epitome of laid-back luxury and a no-brainer for an unforgettable escape; modern and sleek, they move away from traditional desert-inspired architecture and instead offer a masterclass in contrast. Tucked away in the Al Wadi Nature Reserve and with the utmost privacy, each of the sprawling, 900-square-metre villas comes equipped with an outdoor dining area, private terraces and an infinity pool. Moving indoors, the space boasts two bedrooms - the master includes a walk-in wardrobe, reading nook and outdoor shower - as well as an open-plan living-dining space that is as apt for candlelit dinners and slow breakfasts as it is for a chaotic board-game night with the family.
Each villa also includes a separate kitchen and butler’s entrance to keep preparations out of sight, as well as a fitness studio stacked with TechnoGym equipment to ensure you stay on top of your fitness goals while on vacation (if you’re into that sort of thing).
Despite its location in the midst of the desert, the dining options at The Ritz-Carlton, Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert are world class. The culinary gem is Farmhouse by Syrco, a Gault&Millau-awarded restaurant with traceability, nature and transparency at its heart. Two-Michelin-starred chef Syrco Bakker works together with local farmers to curate a menu that brings seasonal, responsibly sourced ingredients to the forefront, spanning vegetables, seafood and meats. Elsewhere on the property, indulge in international and regional fare at Kaheela; beachside bites at the Oasis Pool Bar; artisanal coffees overlooking the equestrian centre at Paddock; and special dining experiences curated by the in-house team, from desert barbecues to dreamy dinners overlooking an oasis.
Although whiling away an afternoon at the Signature Villas is relaxing in itself, a getaway isn’t complete without a spa treatment (or three). Indulge in The Rainforest for an experience unlike any other; an immersive blend of European culture and Middle Eastern bathing rituals result in a space with 16 stations, including steam rooms, affusion showers and the delightfully unexpected Ice Igloo.
After a long day of pampering and stellar cuisine, return to your home-away-from-home to sundowners on the terrace or an evening meal prepared by a private chef, and watch the sun plunge into the infinity pool, washing your worries away with it. Book now
