best uae staycations

Life

by Alice Holtham-Pargin
20 seconds ago

This is your sign to take a break…
If you’re dreaming of a weekend escape but you’re not looking to travel too far, a UAE staycation is the perfect way to spend a weekend. From gorgeous desert resorts backdropped by golden dunes, to hotels that stretch along the sugary beachfront and sleek city stays close to star attractions, we’ve rounded up the best staycation deals in the UAE right now. 
Bab Al Shams

In the golden desert dunes of Al Marmoon, this Ramadan Bab Al Shams invites you to enjoy luxury and heritage. Whether you check-in to one of the calming rooms, sumptuous suites or lavish new villas, you can look forward to iftar at Al Hadheerah, the theatrical Middle Eastern restaurant, plus in-room suhoor or breakfast at Zala. Enjoy experiences like falconry displays or camel ride, or simply bliss out at the pool or spa.
Room rates from AED2,406. babalshams.com
Palazzo Versace Dubai

On the banks of Al Jaddaf, the opulent Palazzo Versace Dubai invites you to enjoy Ramadan in the elegant surrounds of its grand resort. Check-in to one of the bright, sophisticated guest rooms laced with Versace touches, enjoy a daily breakfast at refined all-day dining restaurant, Giardino or an in-room suhoor, plus get 15 per cent off additional food and drinks and spa treatments.
Room rates from AED1,000. palazzoversace.ae
Anantara Al Sahel, Sir Bani Yas

Venture off the beaten track (and roughly a three-hour drive from Dubai) to the island of Sir Bani Yas, where nature, natural beauty and local flavour await. The island is home to three Anantara resorts, each offering its own unique experience, but for bedding down amongst abundant wildlife, book Anantara Al Sahel. UAE residents can benefit from up to 20% off the best available rate on the 30 plush safari-style villas, complimentary breakfast, late check-out of 2pm and AED200 to redeem on spa treatments of 90 minutes and above.
Room rates from AED1,654, anantara.com
Atlantis The Royal

An icon of ultra-luxury hospitality, a stay at Atlantis The Royal should be high on any UAE dweller’s bucket list. The home of indulgent extravagance, sumptuous suites, gourmet fine dining, a dazzling spa and a gorgeous Nobu beach club make this the perfect address to lap up luxury. UAE residents get 20% off room, suite and penthouse rates, plus complimentary daily breakfast and free entry to Aquaventure World, The Lost Chambers Aquarium, and Nobu by the Beach.
Room rates from AED2,560. atlantis.com
Banyan Tree Dubai

Set on a private 500 metre stretch of beach on Bluewaters, check-in to Banyan Tree Dubai for some much-deserved R&R. This wellness driven brand has taken over the former Caesars Palace, and turned it into a relaxing haven where stays are all about rejuvenation and relaxation. The UAE resident staycation rate gets you 20% off the best available rate, a daily breakfast, and 20% off any further dining and spa treatments. There’s also early check-in and late check-out, subjet to availability.
Room rates from AED2,360. banyantree.com
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach

With a winter escape at this exclusive Ritz Carlton, you’ll find yourself in secluded bliss on one of Ras Al Khaimah’s loveliest stretches of shoreline. The all-pool-villa resort is landscaped around beautiful gardens, and invites you to enjoy peace and privacy with five-star service. The winter escape staycation deal offers daily breakfast for two adults and up to two children, plus AED200 resort credit when you book a minimum of two nights to be used on dining, spa or leisure activities. For families, there’s complimentary access to The Ritz Kids at The Ritz-Carlton Al Hamra Beach and sister property, The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert.
Room rates from AED2,000. marriott.com
One&Only Royal Mirage

On the shorefront of Al Sufouh, this village-like resort is set between several ornate Arabian buildings. Traditional Middle Eastern splendour leads the aesthetic for the guest rooms, while dining and imbibing comes in the form of several pools, Drift Beach Club and the beautiful Jetty Lounge bar. As a GCC resident, the ultimate staycation package gets you savings on rooms, plus 20% off food and soft drinks, 20% off spa treatments, daily breakfast, early check-in and late check-out plus access to Aquaventure waterpark.
Room rates from AED1,725. oneandonlyresorts.com
Jumeirah Saadiayt Island

Unrolling against the backdrop of one of the world’s best beaches, this breezy island resort is all about seaside escapism. Abu Dhabi’s luxurious Jumeirah property offers 40% off the Jumeirah flexible rate with its staycation offer, plus 20% off dining at restaurants including Italian restaurant Mare Mare and Levantine eatery Tean. Daily breakfast and complimentary yoga and access to the spa facilities are included. Check in to one of the villas and suites and you’ll also get complimentary access to SAL beach club.
Room rates from AED1,815. jumeirah.com
Lead image: @zozoewitherspoon More