Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort

The highly-anticipated Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort opened less than a year ago, but already has the makings of an iconic UAE resort, offering Maldivian-inspired eco-luxury in the northern emirate.

Within less than an hour’s drive, you can swap the Dubai city skyline for a truly serene setting: a private peninsula that makes the most of Ras Al Khaimah’s beauty, from lush mangroves to golden sand beaches overlooking the Arabian Gulf. With the emirate’s well-deserved reputation as a destination for nature-lovers, it’s the perfect spot for a luxury resort designed to exist in harmony with the natural world.

From the moment you step into the elegant lobby, prepare to be swept away by the gentle hospitality and exceptional luxury that Anantara is renowned for. Bright, airy spaces, high windows and plenty of alfresco areas mean that every angle seems to offer views of the surrounding nature. The resort is designed with serenity and seclusion in mind, yet the welcoming communal spaces, including a resort beach, infinity pool, and kids’ and teens’ clubs, make it just as suited to a family getaway as it is to a romantic escape.

There are 174 guest rooms, suites, and villas to choose from, each with private balconies or terraces to make the most of the cool sea breeze and garden or ocean views. For the ultimate experience, splash out on one of the stunning Maldivian-inspired overwater pool villas, the first in Ras Al Khaimah. Relax in your luxurious room, sunbathe on your private deck or cool off in your private infinity plunge pool while watching the local birds navigate the tranquil waters of the lagoon. A private outdoor shower adds to the feel of an exotic escape. Every villa is assigned a villa host for personalised care, from organising your restaurant bookings to reserving your cabana on your exclusive private beach.

The property boasts six dining destinations, in-room dining, signature private experiences, and cooking classes. Those with a sweet tooth won’t want to miss Afternoon Tea at the Lobby Lounge and Cafe, an indulgence as delicious as it is photogenic – the pistachio eclairs are a highlight. Beach House offers Mediterranean-inspired delights; don’t miss the raw menu, especially the seared tuna and Dibba Bay oysters, best enjoyed at an alfresco table overlooking the ocean. However, for a special occasion, book Mekong’s stunning dining pods for Thailand, Vietnam, and China-inspired fare. Their design mimics water lilies, and they’re located in front of the open kitchen for added entertainment.

There are three meeting rooms that can seat eight to 16 people, two of which can be combined for larger events of 30-100 people. For special occasions, the property’s garden and beach can each be booked for a 300 to 450-person gathering.

There’s no shortage of activities for adventurous guests, from hiking on nearby Jebel Jais to kayaking through the mangroves, and the resort’s water sports centre caters for everyone from beginners to adrenaline junkies. For those who prefer a slower pace of life, the Anantara Spa is a luxury oasis tucked away in the gardens, offering a range of pampering treatments. Surrender to the Anantara Signature Massage, which begins with a soothing foot bath, before the combination of Eastern and Western massage techniques and the special Anantara oil blend leave you feeling revitalised in body, mind, and spirit.