Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah Ritz-Carlton Hotel Review

By Nicole Brewer

Last weekend I had the pleasure of globetrotting to Ras Al Khaimah, UAE for the first time GTs. I’ve visited the Emirates on numerous occasions, but this was a first in order to have a weekend escape at Al Wadi Desert, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel. I must say that it was indeed worth the hour venture outside of Dubai to soak up the luxury offered at this 5-star resort in Ras Al Khaimah.

DSCN4681

Al Wadi Desert, a Ritz-Carlton partnered hotel, is located in an incredible desert oasis. The luxurious resort features 101 private villas, each adorning its own private pool, sun beds, and loungers. Al Wadi Desert is the perfect option for a family retreat or a couples weekend getaway. I thoroughly enjoyed luxuriating by the stunning infinity pool, while watching the game such as an Arabian oryx passing by in the wild.

DSCN4790

17917296_10108176090605703_6321782086268572449_o

My villa featured a huge soaking tub for relaxing in the evenings after a full day out and about around the resort facilities. The Bedouin-inspired tented villa also boasts fantastic woodwork around the exterior and deck, complimentary Wi-Fi, a huge living area and an incredibly relaxing king bed. The 2723 SQ FT villa can accommodate up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children.

28114362-H1-BTAEAW_VR_0912_AlKhaimahlVilla-Bedroom_IMG001
Picture via ritzcarlton.com.
17903758_10108183803094813_7612745003521515705_n
I absolutely Loved this tub.
RCALWAD_00039
Picture via Ritzcarlton.com

The resort also offers a host of amenities and activities for those that want to unwind or enjoy nature that is inhibited throughout the area. I experienced one of the Most relaxing spa experiences ever called “The Rainforest.” It consisted of moving through 14 rooms of calming baths, saunas, hammams, foot baths and a soaking pool area. I followed up The Rainforest with a soothing Balinese massage. It was the ultimate way to relax in this pristine setting.

Move from hot to cold foot spas in the Rainforest experience at Al Wadi Desert.
Move from hot to cold foot spas in the Rainforest experience at Al Wadi Desert.

I was also pleasantly delighted by the selection of food at the dining establishments throughout Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah. A massive breakfast buffet was available daily at Al Waha restaurant, including international and Arabic delights of fruits, vegetables, and pastries.  The resort also offers amazing dining options such as having your meal on the sand dunes or at the Tower with private dining looking out over the desert. I had a great Indian meal at the exclusive Safran restaurant, overlooking a waterhole with desert animals enjoying the breeze from the nearby stream.

Al Wadi offered an excellent breakfast buffet option.
Al Wadi offered an excellent breakfast buffet option.
This shrimp appetizer at Safran was Excellent. Paired with a South African wine.
This shrimp appetizer at Safran was Excellent. I paired it with a South African wine.

The list of activities available at Al Wadi Desert was ongoing. I enjoyed a walk around the horse stables viewing the rare breeds that were available for riding. Children can also have an exhilarating ride on a pony around the stables. The desert oasis of Ras Al Khaimah also offers a nature reserve filled with activities including archery, bike riding, bird watching, nature walks with handy guides, and a family friendly falcon show! Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah a Ritz-Carlton Hotel is the perfect choice for a relaxing getaway from its big brother Dubai, being located only 45 minutes away. I highly recommend a stay here globetrotters for your next venture to the area.

DSCN4715

DSCN4752
My guide for the nature walk, who is from Zambibwae, was very knowledgeable on all things plant and animals showing us how to make soap out of plants! 
DSCN4735
A falcon! A owl also flew above and around the area as part of the show. Great family fun! 

***Disclaimer:  A portion of my stay was complimentary in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*** 

  1. DShaunte says

    This place looks amazing! Thanks for the review.

    1. Globe trot says

      You’re welcome! It was Fabulous.

  2. Abby says

    Really wow! The Al Wadi Desert Hotel looks like a luxurious dream. But what I liked more is that it allowed you to interact with nature, from the views to the nature walks. Thanks for posting!

Leave A Reply

Your email address will not be published.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More