The Ritz-Carlton RAK, Al Wadi Desert Celebrates First Anniversary with 11 Special Experience and Activities

To celebrate the one year anniversary of  the inauguration of The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert on 11 November 2018, the hotel is showcasing a series of 11 unique offerings for guests to experience in the heart of the Arabian desert. 

Nestled in a scenic nature reserve, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert is a secluded oasis set amongst 500 hectares of desert conservation area. Since launching as a Ritz-Carlton resort in 2017, the hotel has focused on offering exceptional experiences alongside unparalleled service for guests, whilst being committed to providing traditional Arabian hospitality.

Guests are also invited to experience an authentic sense of place when visiting the property with the opportunity to connect with nature and view the signature falconry show, whereby majestic birds of prey including desert eagle owl and dusky hawk who call the reserve their home participate in a breathtaking interactive display.

To commemorate the first anniversary of the resort, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert is showcasing a series of celebratory moments available to book either individually, or as part of a package throughout November.

Desert private dining at Al Wadi Tower

Modelled after a traditional Arabian watchtower, The Al Wadi Tower offers the essence of traditional outdoor desert dining in a private, luxurious setting. The menus are customized for each guest and served by a dedicated team of butlers whilst overlooking the picturesque Arabian desert which creates an exquisite backdrop for a romantic and memorable evening. 

Stargazing beyond desert sandscapes

For astronomy enthusiasts, learning about the wonders of the magical desert skies by night is a unique experience not to be missed.  Suitable for the whole family, the team of resident experts will give an introduction to the constellations visible from the welcoming Moon Bar, whilst guests observe the mesmerizing landscape offset by a spectacular canopy of stars.  With a sophisticated menu of mocktails and blended classics, The Moon Bar is perfect for an al fresco evening of star-gazing. 

Desert bike caravan

With the weather cooling, guests are invited to discover the Arabian desert on two wheels, whilst exploring the nature reserve trails, which run alongside the property.  Enjoy the peace and quiet of the desert terrain whilst cycling at a gentle pace, or there is the opportunity for more experienced cyclists to climb the rolling dunes and gain panoramic views of the breathtaking desert below. A special desert picnic lunch is available as a special Dining by Design experience. 

Night brunch at the iconic Farmhouse

Visit The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert and indulge in the much fêted exclusive Night Brunch every Thursday at Farmhouse, set in the heart of magical desert scenery.  Bring your loved ones to share an assortment of indulgences, complemented by a live, smooth jazz saxophone performance from 18.00-23.00. Guests are also encouraged to watch the Interactive Falcons & Owl Show. With a variety of birds of prey, including the falcon, desert eagle owl, barn owl and the Harris hawk, the reserve’s team of experienced falconers will guide guests through an interactive show and flying display. 

Desert Sundowners at Moon Bar

The perfect refined location to celebrate, guests can gaze at the endless desert skies in Moon Bar, the resort’s signature rooftop lounge. Vibrant yet sophisticated, it is the ideal place for sundowners whilst appreciating the unblemished sunset. Serving signature drinks and light bites, Moon Bar offers both the seclusion of a lounge setting as well as the choice of relaxed seating for larger groups. Open daily, 4:30 p.m.

Horseback desert hack

For experienced riders, this is the chance to enjoy a thrilling canter across the dunes.  Feeling the thrill of the ascents and descents of the breathtaking valleys, this is an experience not to be missed. Riding with the wind, licensed instructors will take guests across the magnificent reserve where views of the red and golden sands are a sight to behold, with riders encountering the local wildlife inhabitants of this richly populated area along the way, passing alongside a plentiful array of flora and fauna.

Desert stone massage at the Ritz-Carlton Spa

The Ritz Carlton signature spa offers guests a therapeutic and rejuvenating massage using warm volcanic stones and a moderate to deep pressure that intensely soothe the muscles and aid relaxation. Drawing from ancient healing traditions, the hot stone massage focuses on combating the elements of the desert whilst rejuvenating and restoring the senses.

Heritage forest tree planting

As part of the resort’s tree planting initiative, The Heritage Forest Pilot Project seeks to plant 4,000 Ghafs by 2020 and aims to play a small part in securing the wellbeing of the planet for future generations. Guests can mark the hotel’s anniversary and help make the world greener by planting these hardy trees inside the reserve’s Heritage Forest.

Make a splash with ponies at Ritz Kids

This interactive and popular session allows children to connect and learn more about ponies. In addition to taking them on an introductory riding experience, guides will help aspiring equestrian fans and junior riders discover how to take care of ponies by grooming and walking the equines.

Head to the beach for rest and relaxation 

Pure luxury awaits on an isolated stretch of beach beneath the comforting Arabian sun. Guests can enjoy a relaxing day at sister property, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach with sumptuous seclusion along shimmering azure waters and pristine white sands. Distinctive dining and ocean-inspired wellness experiences are offered to further enhance this breathtaking coastal haven where fresh discoveries become lifelong memories. The day pass includes access to the infinity pool, towels, bottled water, beach services and access to the gym. A shuttle bus is also available and departs to The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach at 11 am and returns at 4.30 pm. 

Arabic BBQ under the stars at  Kan Zaman

Guests are invited to join the Arabian BBQ under the stars, every Friday at Kan Zaman from 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm in an outdoor relaxing traditional seating overlooking the desert landscape. Kan Zaman offers live barbecue grill stations, a selection of mezze, salads, and desserts complemented by a lively belly dance performance.

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al  Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert offers the Ultimate Desert Experience with accommodation in a Tented Villa. The itinerary includes an overnight stay in a premium Tented Pool Villa, full board inclusion with ‘dine around’ options, signature falconry show and owl interaction daily and one Al Wadi Experience. Please visit www.ritzcarlton.com/alwadidesert for rates. 

For more information or for reservations please visit www.ritzcarlton.com or call 07 207 7777. 

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, MD., currently operates more than 90 hotels in over 30 countries and territories.  More than 40 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. For more information or reservations, visit the company website at ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.ritzcarlton.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories.  The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR).