Owned by RAKEEN Development PJSC and managed by Singapore-based Banyan Tree Holdings, Banyan Tree Al Wadi is the first desert resort in the United Arab Emirates to offer an all-pool villa concept, complete with 3,000 sqm of Asian-inspired hydrotherapy spa facilities, a dedicated nature reserve, a private beach club and an 18-hole championship golf course

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Ho Kwon Ping, Executive Chairman of Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts said, "Banyan Tree Al Wadi is the only property in the world to provide tourists with an integrated desert, mountain and beach experience. Banyan Tree Al Wadi will also be the largest villa resort will pool villas in the entire GCC."

Elaborating on the selection of Ras Al Khaimah as the place for the unique resort, Ho Kwon Ping said, "We have long been searching for the perfect location for an iconic desert resort and we were then introduced to this location which had a magic in its desertscape, rich diversity in its flora and fauna and even a richness of culture that is unique to this place,"

"I hope that Banyan Tree Al Wadi will launch a new era in the UAE tourism as we feel there has not been to date a kind of tourism which showcases the cultural sensitivities and the incredible biodiversity of the UAE.", he added.

Ho Kwon Ping in his welcome speech also took the opportunity to thank Dr. Khater Massaad, Executive Chairman of RAKEEN Development PJSC, for being a visionary partner in this resort project.

Banyan Tree Al Wadi comprises 70 Al Rimal deluxe pool villas spanning around 158 square metres, as well as 16 Al Khaimah and 15 Al Sahari tented pool villas that measure approximately 253 square metres.  The Al Khaimah and Al Sahari tented pool villas also feature a generously-sized bathroom where spa treatments can be offered within the privacy of one’s accommodation

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Banyan Tree Spa Al Wadi will be the Group’s first Banyan Tree spa in the United Arab Emirates. Spanning 3,000 square metres, the spa features 10 discreet indoor treatment pavilions, complemented by signature Asian-inspired massages delivered by male and female therapists trained at the Banyan Tree Spa Academy in Phuket, Thailand.

The elegant banquet hall can seat up to 140 people, offering an exclusive event space for weddings or corporate groups. For smaller groups of up to 20 people, the two meeting rooms are suited for brainstorm sessions and corporate meetings.

Banyan Tree Al Wadi also features four food and beverage venues. These include contemporary Thai cuisine and Southeast Asian specialties at the signature Saffron restaurant, international selections at Al Waha, the all-day dining restaurant, an extensive wine selection at Samar Lounge, and refreshing cocktails and shisha at Moon Bar, the rooftop lounge.

Banyan Tree Al Wadi is the first desert spa resort in Ras Al Khaimah to offer a private nature reserve within its grounds. Spanning over 100 hectares, of which 60 hectares are set aside for the dedicated nature reserve – home to local desert wildlife such as Arabian gazelles and oryxes, offering guests a unique opportunity to interact with and observe these gentle creatures up close.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of Al Rams Sports Club, Sheikh Khalid bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Masafi Sports Club, Sheikh Saqr bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of Al Tawun Sports Club, Dr. Khater Massaad, Executive Chairman, RAKEEN Development PJSC were present on the occasion. Among the other distinguished guests present were HE Dileep Nair, Consul General of the Republic of Singapore; HE Pasan Teparak, Consul General of the Kingdom of Thailand; as well as senior members of the banking and finance, and tourism industry.

The event then concluded with a magnificent falcon display which delighted the audience.