The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

It’s quite astonishing that, just a 30-minute drive from the bright lights of Ras Al Khaimah, you can lie back by your own private pool in the middle of a vast, arid desert, and watch gazelles grazing on the hardy flora that flourishes around you. But at Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, this is par for the course thanks to its location within the Al Wadi Nature Reserve. 

It’s not just about desert-dwelling wildlife and poolside lounging, though. This property is lauded for its exceptional food. Farm-to-table meals are at the heart of Farmhouse, a steak restaurant where local producers are the stars of the menu, while Middle Eastern and North African cuisine are the highlights at Kaheela and Moorish. Cocktails with a view can be sipped at Moon Bar, which has a prime position overlooking the desert on the hotel’s rooftop, offering you a chance to stargaze while spending quality time with friends or family. 

Beyond the embrace of this luxurious resort, you can dine out in the desert for a wilder evening, experience archery and falconry among the dunes, or go horseback riding on elegant Arabian steeds.