Life
If you’re looking to take a break over the long weekend even perhaps extend your holiday, switching-off at the right resorts during your travel plans can make you feel refreshed for the busy season ahead this year.
Another long-weekend for UAE residents in both the public and private sector is finally here for Union Day.
For those still wondering where to escape to, there’s a myriad of destinations with picturesque properties to rejuvenate at with your loved ones.
From tailor-made butler services to overwater bungalows, it’s never too late to book a short-haul escape this weekend for utmost relaxation.
UAE
Ajman
Oberoi Al Zorah
For total relaxation and peace, swap the bustling streets of Dubai to the serene feeling of Ajman. Just a 45-minute drive from Downtown Dubai is the Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah. This luxury resort is like no other in the UAE, offering complete tranquillity to guests with its peaceful surroundings. The resort has just 89 rooms and villas, making it an exclusive and quiet getaway for guests. The resort’s facilities include a luxurious spa, private beach, 24-hour gym and the longest heated swimming pool in Ajman at 85 metres. The hotel also has two on-site restaurants – Vinesse which offers international cuisine and Aquario which is the resort’s beachside restaurant specialising in Mediterranean cuisine.
Abu Dhabi
Qasr Al Sarab
Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara boasts a unique and mystical location deep within the Liwa desert. Just 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi, the property offers a unique immersion into Arabian luxury in a spectacular setting, and a complete escape from the city – the perfect setting for a restorative break from everyday hustle and bustle. Guests can take a further step into relaxation at the Anantara Spa, a healing oasis hidden among the dunes at the Arabian-style resort, where a host of replenishing treatments, and a relaxation area with amazing views of the desert, await to help guests unwind and switch off.
Doha
Mandarin Oriental
The hotel blends chic and contemporary design with touches of Qatari heritage, bringing new levels of luxury to Qatar. Designed by the world-renowned David Collins Studio, the hotel’s 117 rooms, 41 suites and 91 serviced apartments blend an elegant, contemporary design with subtle elements of traditional Qatari heritage. Mandarin Oriental, Doha is an intimate and stylish urban retreat located in the centre of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the new lifestyle and cultural heart of the city.
Seychelles
Mango House
Not only is this the most luxurious Hilton property on the Island, but a haven of unparalleled beauty, offering a unique blend of adventure, romance, and the ultimate relaxation. Mango House Seychelles offers an enchanting retreat for couples seeking an unforgettable escape. Bask in the warmth of the Seychellois sun as you lounge in beachfront rooms, suites, or villas, each adorned with private terraces or balconies boasting breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.
Maldives
Ritz Carlton, Fari Islands
This Union Day, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives invites families seeking an extraordinary escape where elegance meets paradise, to visit the iconic resort. Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Indian Ocean, the hotel promises cherished moments and unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages. In honour of this special occasion, the resort presents the opportunity to reserve your own private beach access for the whole family. Make a reservation at one of the resort’s three secluded beach coves (Uthuru, Sangu, or Dhekunu) and experience the ultimate getaway. Each surrounded by five individual villas, with one or two bedrooms, all just a short stroll from one another, they provide the perfect setting for beachside entertainment, dining, and sports. Every aspect of the guests’ stay will be meticulously curated by a dedicated Aris Meeha, an island butler, ready to cater to every desire.
Patina, Fari Islands
Patina Maldives offers 90 contemporary one- to three-bedroom Beach and Water Pool Villas, alongside 20 Fari Studios, all of which embody a harmony of sanctuary and stimulation.Set in the Fari Islands archipelago in North Malé Atoll, guests can immerse themselves in a new expression of island life through thoughtful tailor-made wellness journeys, interactive music programmes and captivating culinary experiences. Patina Maldives also have an exciting event, Cosmopolitan Ocean, coming up in October and have shared details. It will feature LA-based streetwear label Stampd, an intersensory opening ritual with Welsh electronic musician and producer Kelly Lee Owens, Pam Longobardi’s large-scale ocean plastics art installation and much more.
Soneva Fushi
This aesthetic resort is a natural treasure with magical experiences at every turn. The resort’s 53 private island villas are ensconced in a verdant jungle, while the eight Water Reserves are among the largest of their kind in the world. Guests can stay entertained with visiting experts as part of the Soneva Stars calendar, explore 14 fine dining destinations, discover transformative wellness at Soneva Soul or make time for play at The Den – one of the largest children’s playgrounds in South Asia.
Saudi Arabia
Banyan Tree AlUla
Spread across the desert valley of Al Ula, this urban sanctuary promises a sustainable getaway for all those who visit. This all-villa resort is a one-of-a-kind desert retreat with its natural surroundings and multi-sensory experience. With the stunning rock formations, guests can unwind at these authentic Arabian-inspired villas that showcase expansive views of nature. Located at Wadi Ashar, this property is set in the area known as the world’s largest living museum.
Udaipur
Leela Palace Udaipur
A piece of cultural heritage amongst nature can be found at The Leela Palace Udaipur, for those seeking a rich experience away from the bustling city. Set amongst the Aravalli mountains and Lake Pichola, guests will have a rich cultural experience through every aspect of their stay. Whether witnessing a traditional folk dance, visiting the 162 year old Temple or learning about the ancient art form of Pichwai painting – visitors are sure to leave their trip culturally enriched.
