Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, is An Ideal Getaway
Deep within the desert landscape of Abu Dhabi, Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi is an intimate retreat suffused with natural beauty and serene tranquility. With a distinct Spa as the hallmark of the hotel experience, guests can re-balance their equilibrium and embark on an individual wellness journey. Inspired by traditional Bedouin living, the boutique resort’s 103 guest rooms and villas feature timeless local details, traditional artwork, and Arabesque accessories, alongside a range of dining destinations showcasing the dunes to panoramic perfection. Step away from it all into an exclusive natural environment, with the space to reconnect and the freedom to lose yourself.
Tradition meets Contemporary living
Al Wathba is a boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the Arabian desert reminiscent of traditional Bedouin living. Designed by Dubai based architecture firm Godwin Austen Johnson, the Bedouin style designs are inspired by the nomadic groups that once inhabited the desert hundreds of years ago. The authentic arabesque décor includes the Falaj, which was an ancient irrigation system dating back to 500AD, the traditional sand-coloured hue and rustic wood used throughout the resort, Persian inspired carpets, handcrafted metalwork, and many ethnic accessories. The golden dim lighting of the bedrooms is also a very nice touch to enhance the traditional vibe. The carefully curated interiors of the resort are designed to create a family home ambience rather than a luxury hotel atmosphere. Even though every detail in the resort is carefully selected to give you that traditional Bedouin experience, the hotel is also equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and the latest technology.
Accommodation
Inspired by classical dwellings, the boutique resort’s 103 guest rooms and villas feature timeless local details, traditional artwork, and Arabesque accessories. The resort is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway offering 40 superior rooms, 40 deluxe rooms and six one-bedroom suites. Families can choose from an array of four two-bedroom suites, six one-bedroom villas, five two-bedroom desert view villas, and the Royal three-bedroom villa. Each villa comes with its own private plunge pool and patio overlooking the rolling dunes. Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple looking to escape the hustle and bustle, or a family looking for new adventures, Al Wathba has the perfect accommodation for your needs.
Dining in Style
Indulge your cravings at one of many dining destinations offering the best of international cuisines. Enjoy Mediterranean classics at Bait Al Hanine, a stylish all-day dining restaurant, offering a wide variety of local flavors. Inspired by the Arabian Gulf and Lebanon, you can enjoy homemade recipes, from crispy and freshly baked bread to the most tasteful Arabic classics. Savor a signature Italian menu in Terra Secca, a sophisticated Trattoria with traditional wood-fired ovens. Characterised by European warmth and style, the design blends rustic finishes of exposed brickwork and contemporary furnishings and a vast outdoor terrace where amazing Arabian horses are roaming. Panache offers poolside dining and nutritious snacks with Arabic flavours. Surrender to the soothing energy of the vast infinity pool and enjoy poolside dining with a swim-up bar.
Al Mesayan invites for an afternoon tea, sunsets and stargazing at an exquisite rooftop bar with desert views. Experience the natural surroundings in supreme comfort, where the sunset views are simply breath-taking, enjoy signature cocktails and a blend of French Moroccan cuisine. For fresh coffee and Arabic inspired mocktails, head to Hayaakom, an intimate lobby lounge.
Desert Retreat – Home Away From Home
Situated in the midst of the desert in Abu Dhabi, 50km from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a forty-five-minute drive from downtown it is a perfect escape from the city for a tranquil retreat that offers a home away from home. The resort spreads across 22,000sqm and offers picturesque views of the desert neighbouring lush greenery. Being situated in the heart of the desert we would recommend you plan your visit for the cooler months to enjoy the grand array of outdoor activities. However, in the summer months you can still enjoy the state-of-the-art facilities, take a dip in the iconic infinity pool, spoil yourself at the glorious Talise spa or simply relax and recharge in your Bedouin style dwellings.
Activities Catered to All
Al Wathba is an ideal place for families, couples, adventure seekers, cyclists and anyone who wants to enjoy a thrilling break in the desert. There is plenty on offer for each and everyone. The 1000sqm infinity pool stretches into the desert overlooking the beautiful Arabian sands, featuring expansive sunbeds and cabanas. Children are warmly welcomed in spacious facilities such as the Kids Club, a separate pool with a big splash area and an extensive outdoor playground. The resort also boasts numerous activities for the thrill-seeking traveler such as archery, horse riding, cycling, hiking, and running.
Places to visit in the vicinity include the fossil rock, the famous camel racetrack, the Al Wathba cycle track and the running track to name a few. By night you can enjoy the falcon show and early morning embark on a horse-riding session at sunrise. After having spent a thrilling action-packed day out in the desert, immerse yourself in a world of relaxation at the hotel’s Talise spa. Talise spa is the hallmark of the hotel experience where guests can relax and rebalance in one of the 13 treatment rooms with indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, saunas, steam rooms, hot and cold plunge pools, salt rooms, snow caves, a traditional Turkish hammam and a Icelab Cryo experience. Moreover, the guests have complimentary access to the state-of-the-art fitness center and a dedicated outdoor yoga pavilion.
By Anna Banna
