From the moment of arrival at the Anantara Mina Al Arab, it’s clear that this is no ordinary resort. The journey begins with a picturesque drive through the serene landscapes of Ras Al Khaimah, leading to the Maldivian-inspired waterfront property. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with traditional Emirati hospitality, cool towels and welcome drinks.
A true blend of sands, one tends to lose sense of geographical understanding – Maldives? Ras Al Khaimah? Both?
The resort’s architecture blends contemporary design and traditional Arabian aesthetics, creating a sense of place that pays homage to both cultures yet synergised. The lobby, with its high ceilings and panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, sets the tone for the luxurious experience synonymous with the Anantara brand.
“Featuring Ras Al Khaimah’s first overwater villas, reminiscent of the Maldives, each villa blends seamlessly with the surroundings and offers a private plunge pool with stunning views,” said Ramsey Saarany, General Manager, Anantara Mina Al Arab, in an exclusive interview with Arabian Business.
Maldivian-inspired overwater villas
Those opting for a stay at one of the many overwater villas at the resort will be greeted by a villa host who will personally cater to the guests’ every need which begins with the exchange of numbers – “if you need anything, message me on WhatsApp,” he said.
The overwater villas are a highlight of the resort, offering views of the mangroves and featuring infinity plunge pools. Each plunge pool’s temperature can be adjusted to suit the guest’s preferences.
These villas whisper tropical luxury, featuring expansive sun decks, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The interior features contemporary décor with beach-inspired details including sand-dollar wall art, shell sculptures and more.
One could describe it as a seamless journey through various spaces: from the integrated living area that flows into the central bedroom, seamlessly connecting to a walk-in closet, and leading back to the living space. The en-suite bathroom, featuring both indoor and outdoor showers, as well as a bathtub by the windows, offers views of the water and surrounding mangroves.
With expectations of bright blue Maldivian-like seas, the resort seems to face a wavy tide schedule running in six-hour intervals, predominantly low tide, highlighting the mangroves as a key feature amid the search for flamingos, turtles, and fish. Guests are kept entertained with luxurious interiors, a variety of dining options, watersports, and other activities such as yoga.
“Seamlessly integrating with the surrounding mangrove reserve and actively supporting conservation efforts through the planting of mangroves and sustaining the ecosystem, the resort aligns with Ras Al Khaimah’s conservation and environmental objectives,” Saarany said.
Located on the resort’s private beach guarded by a waver breaker that is most times seen and sometimes unseen based on the tepid tides, is a beachside restaurant, watersports cabana and several sunbeds, offering an array of beachside experiences for hotel guests.
Exploring the non-motorised padel boat required tons of sunscreen, strong legs and a calm mind. “You are only allowed to go until the stones,” the watersport staff said, pointing towards the wave breaker not too far from the shore.
On one side were guests indulging in watersports, paddling to the rocks to get a glimpse of sea turtles and crabs.
On the other side were guests exploring the menu of the beachside restaurant while some basked in the sun.
Overall, a typical UAE beachside for all.
Although the resort’s perimeter is walkable, buggies are provided to escort guests around the various dining and leisure options, offering a luxurious convenience during the peak summer heat.
Ras Al Khaimah tourism boom
Ras Al Khaimah’s hospitality and tourism segment has made headlines lately with the emirate positioning itself as a prime destination for those seeking getaways, for both residents and international visitors alike.
The resort has seen a “diverse mix of guests” since its opening earlier this year.
“Our key source markets include the UK, Germany, Russia, the wider CIS region, and the GCC. Additionally, we have become a very popular choice for staycations among UAE guests,” Saarany said.
The emirate has seen the opening of several hotels and resorts including the announcement of the highly anticipated integrated gaming resort, the first of its kind in the region, Wynn Al Marjan, the opening of which is expected to drive a major tourism boom to the city.
“Ras Al Khaimah is the fastest-growing tourism destination in the region. The emirate is renowned for its exceptional natural beauty, pristine beaches, adventurous pursuits, and authentic cultural offerings. It boasts a wide range of accommodation options, emphasising sustainable tourism practices and eco-friendly accommodations, which resonate well with modern, environmentally conscious tourists,” he said.
“Its accessibility, only 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport, has significantly contributed to its popularity, further enhanced by improved international air connectivity through the introduction of direct flights with several airlines,” Saarany added.
A commitment to the environment
One of the features of pride for Anantara Mina Al Arab is its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. The resort is designed to minimise its ecological footprint, with several initiatives implemented across the property.
Additionally, the resort supports local conservation efforts and promotes eco-friendly activities. The staff gleam with joy while sharing their experience of planting mangroves on-site which they get to see flourish while skimming through their daily tasks.
“You see these mangroves here? All of us staff planted this with our own hands,” the villa host said with notes of joy.
Looking ahead, plans to build a Mangrove Discovery Centre is underway, to educate visitors about the nature surrounding the property including the different species to look out for and more.
In addition, the resort has “successfully promoted” itself as a popular destination for events and weddings.
Whether or not the resort has successfully managed to bring Maldives to the Middle East is a question that remains open, however, it is no doubt that Anantara Mina Al Arab brings a one-of-a-kind experience to the hospitality and tourism landscape in Ras Al Khaimah.
Ultimately, the hotel offers everything that one might look for in a tropical vacation – the beach, sands, sun and sky.
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