Al Wathba Desert Resort in Abu Dhabi becomes a member of the “Luxury Collection” of Marriott

The Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa, opened by the Jumeirah Group in early 2019, has changed operators and has recently become a member of Marriott’s “Luxury Collection”. Nevertheless, the enchanting atmosphere between the endless sand dunes of the Al Wathba district – about 40 minutes away from Abu Dhabi City – remains unchanged.

Like in an Arabian village, the 103 rooms, suites and pool villas of the Al Wathba Desert Resort are distributed around a central square, where the 1,000 square meter crystal water pool and several restaurants are located. The courtyards and small waterways that run through the entire complex are reminiscent of traditional oriental architecture. They were inspired by the Falaj – an ancient irrigation system from Oman.

The culinary spectrum ranges from Lebanese classics in the restaurant “Bait Al Hanine” to authentic Emirati cuisine in “Al Mabeet” and Italian specialties in “Terra Secca”. The “Hayaakom” lounge, inspired by Bedouin tents, serves afternoon tea and sandwiches, while the “Al Mesayan” bar on the roof offers a breathtaking view of the sunset in the desert and later invites you to watch the starry sky.

The highlight of the resort is the modern spa, which is located in a picturesque garden. Here, traditional treatments await you in eleven treatment rooms, a crystal salt sauna, a hamam, an ice shower, snow caves and an open yoga pavilion. A wide range of activities are organized to give you an insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region – such as excursions to the camel race track, a falconry show or a guided dune walk.

The resort is also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna – including 4,000 larger flamingos that are at home in the nearby Al Wathba Wetland Reserve. In addition to the Al Wathba Desert Resort, the portfolio of the “Luxury Collection” in the United Arab Emirates also includes the famous, even more exclusive Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa in Dubai – as well as the Grosvenor House in Dubai and the Ajman Saray in the small emirate of Ajman.

Click here for the Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa website