The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach: Discover The Coastal Charm Of The UAE | The Escape
Glistening-blue waters and luxurious tented villas await at this dreamy honeymoon destination in the Middle East
Yes, in Ras Al Khaimah the water is that glorious shade of turquoise and the blue does indeed, magically glisten at golden hour, often best witnessed from the beach with toes sunken into the pristine-white sand. Whilst watching the spellbinding Arabian sunset from the beach is glorious, at this particular resort it’s a challenge to actually leave the luxury of your magnificent villa for such moments (unless, of course, you have a bespoke dinner to attend elsewhere around the property. More on that later).
Nestled on the rugged coastline of the northernmost emirate in the UAE stands The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach, an island-inspired retreat set in a secluded oasis cocooned by the boundless Arabian Gulf to one side, and a lagoon to the other. Upon arrival if you think you’ve taken a wrong, albeit fortunate turn and landed at a Maldivian island, you’ll be forgiven. Check-in takes place inside a tropical standalone welcome lounge before you’re whisked away, by boat, to lodgings that will no doubt take your breath away.
The intimate resort features 32 Bedouin-style tented villas, bedecked in chic white and blue hues with custom-made furnishings including a four poster bed with billowing drapes, and a vintage trunk that houses the mini bar and a widescreen television that appears at the touch of a button, rotating 360 degrees for viewing from the bed or lounge nook – adding to the “they’ve thought of everything” sentiment that flows throughout.
Unquestionably designed for those who appreciate privacy, villas are accessed via a private fortress-style gate and surrounded by a white-walled garden, abundant with tropical flora and fauna. On the outdoor terrace sits a huge bathtub along with plush sun loungers, a dining area and an infinity pool with transparent glass sides. Further down the winding pathway of the sandy garden stands a shaded cabana, followed either by direct access to the resort’s beach, or a wooden deck that sits out over the rock sea wall – depending on the style of accommodation chosen.
Understandably, it’s difficult to leave this secluded bolthole, especially when floating breakfast is served in your swimming pool, but stray you must, to the nautical Shore House restaurant for a culinary flight through ocean-inspired dishes where fresh seafood is the hero of the day. Or, allow the resort’s chefs to create a bespoke dining experience crafted especially for you.
The spa is another good reason to leave the luxury of your private oasis, where stand-alone glass-enclosed couples’ treatment pavilions, with uninterrupted sea views play host to blissful journeys to wellness, such as the signature warm lava shell massage.
Whether you plan for a relaxing honeymoon or wish to spend your days out on the water paddleboarding, jet skiing, or on a sunset cruise, one thing is for sure, once you’ve checked in to this magnificent hideaway, you won’t want to check-out.
Villas from Dhs4,095 per night (price approximate)
Visit Ritzcarlton.com
Images supplied
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia Bride’s Autumn/Winter 2021 issue.