Banyan Tree Al Wadi, located in tranquil and eco-rich Wadi Khadeja in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, Banyan Tree Al Wadi rests amidst 500 hectares of private nature reserve, home to indigenous plant and wildlife. Set against the magnificent Al Hajjar Mountains, this oasis of indulgence is the first luxury desert and spa  resort in the Emirates to offer integrated facilities, comprising spacious all-pool villas, complete with 3,999 sqm of Asian-inspired hydrotherapy spa facilities and beach access at Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah beach.

The elegant fortress-like façade of the resort holds true to traditional Arabic architecture, blending harmoniously with rolling desert dunes. Consisting 101 pool-villas, the 158sqm Al Rimal Deluxe Pool Villa depicts traditional mud brick architecture of Ras Al Khaimah, while the 253 sqm Al Khaimah and Al Sahari Tented Pool Villa emulate the nomadic tent style of Bedouin tribes. Other facilities include “The Rainforest” hydrotherapy spa circuit with hammam and vitality pool, 10 treatments rooms, meetings and banqueting services, activity centre, kids club, a world-class falconry mews, horse and camel stables and access to a private beach.

The signature Thai restaurant – Safran offers authentic Thai cuisine, overlooking the nature reserve’s watering hole where the wildlife gathers during sunset. Al Waha, meaning Oasis in Arabic, serves popular international fare and local Arabic specialties. A spectacular display of modern yet Arabseque interior design, diners can choose to dine indoors where floor-to-ceiling windows sets the stage for metres-high sand dunes, or on the outdoor terrace where an Arabic grill and spit-roast holds court.

Destination Dining is set atop vast sand dunes; this unique experience offers a night of desert dining under the vast Arabian sky. In true Bedouin-style, sit across a brilliant campfire while partaking in traditional dishes, marking an exquisite and memorable dinner.