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    Founder Nicolas Vandenabeele, on how Terra Solis has become the ultimate desert getaway

    Lifestyle

    by Joelle Albeaino
    2 hours ago

    Talk us through the concept behind Terra Solis.
    Terra Solis is inspired by the magic of Tomorrowland and the star constellations we see in the night sky. Our philosophy here is to move slowly, radiate warmth and shine bright. The concept I envisioned was to create a relaxing environment with a soothing atmosphere. I wanted our guests to arrive and feel the exhilarating energy. The vibrant pool scene and eclectic music mix were perfectly crafted to re-energise and uplift. The location in the Arabian desert was specifically chosen for an ideal blend of sunshine and serenity. Even as the sun goes down at Terra Solis, the venue stays alive and thrives. We have created an electrifying evening where our guests can shine and participate in the madness of exclusive Tomorrowland-fuelled parties, unique dining experiences and romance.
    How is Terra Solis different from other glamping spots in the UAE?
    Terra Solis is an exclusive glamping destination. Not only do we offer a variety of luxurious lodging options, but we are also home to one of the biggest pools in the UAE. Additionally, we offer a range of wellness activities, including yoga classes and a unique, jungle-inspired gym called Zeus. Our music acts and events help us to be incomparable. Our guests can have an ultimate glamping experience with an evening of exclusive parties reminiscent of Tomorrowland’s festivals and energy.
    What are the hero dishes at the restaurants Mesa and Sala?
    The cuisine at Mesa is a Mediterranean menu, infused with flavours from all over the world. The dishes are designed to be shared and feature ingredients that have been sourced from local producers. At the moment, Mesa is scheduled to have a grand opening by the end of April 2023, however, Mesa’s outdoor terrace is currently operational and serves guests daily. Also, opening in April is Sala, which is our hidden sanctuary overlooking Terra Solis with an exquisite menu curated by our craftsmen. Paired with enticing beverages and bites, guests can indulge in an intimate setting whilst watching the sunset over Terra Solis.Sala is filled with cosy little corners that are lit by the moonlight and are the perfect escape with your friends or loved ones.

    Terra Solis
    Describe the overall experience at Terra Solis.
    An exhilarating desert destination by Tomorrowland, welcoming guests from around the world to a refreshing, energising pool and a premium glamping hotspot in the Arabian Desert. Terra Solis is like no other, an experience catered to all your needs and comfort with lodging at our Polaris Tent, Perseid Lodge or Orion Cabin. We invite guests to unwind, relax and simply celebrate life.
    What are the different music genres and what sets the concept of Terra Solis apart?
    We play a mix of commercial house and techno. Guests can experience Tomorrowland with One World Radio beats at Terra Solis and meet their favourite Tomorrowland artists – we have plenty of exciting artists lined up this year. Combining four concepts fuelled by the heart and soul of Tomorrowland. A unique glamping and entertainment resort, basking in the Arabian sun surrounded by the beautiful desert. An environment inspired by Bali, Tulum and Ibiza makes it an extraordinary holiday getaway. The design takes inspiration from nature – tell us more. We tried not to disturb the original environment too much and simply compliment the dunes and terrain, using a lot of natural elements from the desert. For example, the façade of our main restaurant is created out of stones we sourced from the surrounding desert. You’ll also see plenty of local trees and wooden elements. We reallywanted to create a natural environment, paying homage to the scenery and UAE’s famous dunes; this can be seen throughout the property, as well as in the interior and exterior designs of the rooms.
    How have you managed to bring an international concept like Tomorrowland to the region?
    When I first came up with the idea of creating a destination like this and got a green light from my business partners to explore, I contacted Tomorrowland for the glamping aspect of it as they have been known to host 40,000 people at the festival every year in ‘Dreamville’ – they clearly had the expertise and their vision fully aligned with ours. After many planning sessions and really taking the time to build a base for the concept, we were on our way. We’ve had a longstanding relationship with Tomorrowland, having hosted a few satellite events in the UAE before, and it was clear to me that they would be the idealpartner for this concept.

    Terra Solis
    This is The Style Issue – can you expand on the style concept of the lodges?
    The design was based on blending the surrounding desert and the accommodation’s building structure in a sleek way, evoking feelings of escapism as well as comfort. Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s concept of merging the two factors, we came up with the idea of curved walls and full glass front shops. The interiors were still to be linked to the main concept, hence the curving headboard with the Terra Solis Star Logo, which emphasises the brand identity awareness in the units themselves. Guests will also find leaves in the style of Mashrabiya in many aspects of the property, from the rooms to certain outdoor décor, fusing Arabesque design with the contemporary. In the rooms, we strategically placed all washroom and shower areas toward the back of the sleeping sections, to keep the flow of guests’ experiences seamless. You’ll find that rooms all have subtle rustic yet eclectic finishes and splashes of earth tones that really make the space warm and inviting. More

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    Far from the city, here’s why the Al Maha Desert Resort is the perfect spot for a getaway

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    3 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: Living in a metropolitan city can be all-consuming—if you’re looking for a quick staycation to unwind and recharge, look no further as we’ve found the most ideal place for you to relax.
    Away from the hustle bustle—Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa is situated in the centre of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Wrapped within the beauty of the golden sands, you may even spot the Arabian Oryx and gazelles, owing to the resort’s tireless sustainability initiatives and attempts at preseving the precious wildlife.

    Local area
    While enjoying the panoramic view of the Arabian Desert, you can take your relaxation experience to a whole new level by indulging in their wide selection of therapeutic, deep tissue and body massages. The soothing spa package, elevated with the secret aromatherapy traditions of the Middle East and South East Asia are priced at AED 4,750. Taking the holistic approach, allow your body, mind and soul to enter a state of tranquility. Further punctuate your stay at the Al Maha Desert Resort by indulging in a gastronomical experience for breakfast, lunch and dinner at their signature restaurant, Al Diwaan. If privacy is of utmost importance to you, the tranquil location also offers you secluded suites with private temperature-controlled pool, providing exclusivity of the highest order.

    Pool Deck Dining
    If you’re on a time crunch and cannot spend the night at this divine property, the Al Maha resort also offers you a day-deal inclusive all of the relaxing and adventurous experiences, depending on your preference. Not in the mood to drive? Priced at AED 1,150, the resorts also offers a 12-hour special transportation facility from/to Dubai in resorts’ 4X4.

    Wildlife drive
    All in a day’s time, you can participate in the luxury haven’s most popular desert activities featuring 45-minute wildlife, a lesson in the Bedouin inspired sport – archery and camel trekking during the golden hour with the breathtaking dunes in the backdrop. If you’re looking for a peaceful daycation, the resort also offers Spa Indulgence Day Package priced at AED 900 inclusive of selected spa treatments that will allow you to rejuvenate your sense with spa treatment and 3-course lunch at Al Diwaan, with both indoors or al fresco dining at the veranda options available.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Supplied  More

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    This luxe Dubai desert resort will be reopening its doors in February

    Lifestyle

    by Dan Robinson
    1 hour ago

    You may have already seen the iconic billboard’s around the city elevating a modern-retro appeal and announcing the re-launch of the iconic Bab Al Shams Desert Resort.
    Scheduled to re-open on Friday February 10, 2023, the opening will be two months earlier than expected.
    The tranquil resort which is beloved by expats and tourists alike has gone through an extensive re-design transformation bringing the Resort in line with the Kerzner roster of hotels but maintaining the original rustic charm and exceptional hospitality the Desert Resort is renowned for.
    Arabic for “Gateway to the Sun” Bab Al Shams’ architecture and interior design were inspired by the earthy tones of the desert throughout the day and illuminated by the sun and the moon. The Oasis resort blends seamlessly in with its surroundings boasting 115 lavish rooms and suites housed in 16 two-stores building. The result is a reimagined and relaxing haven with a subtly Moorish accent.

    Food connoisseurs will be delighted with the new culinary experiences on offer, showcasing fine dining like no other championing local producers and responsibly sourced ingredients. Modern Arabic restaurant Al Hadheerah promises a multi-sensory experience under the stars with live-cooked authentic food, dancers, musicians and camel riders.  Other eateries will include Greek-inspired Zala and Anwā Sunset Lounge offering the finest far-east-meets-south-east cuisine.
    For a superlative experience of self-care check into The Desert Spa for an array of holistic Spa treatments inspired by diverse world traditions with state-of-the-art facilities including but not limited to a couples’ treatment room with plunge pool, sauna and steam rooms, an indoor courtyard pool and a relaxation area. Bask at the desert infinity pool with only miles of the desert as the backdrop making it the picture-perfect location.
    Adrenaline junkies and adventure goers can satisfy their needs with equestrian sports, sand boarding, archery, desert safari, private hot air balloon rides and the infamous 86km Al Qudra cycle track.

    The only thing left to do is book your stay and pack your bag!
    Bab Al Shams Desert Resort is part of the Kerzner Rare Finds collection, a series of hospitality addresses bringing forward the essence of a place and promising soulful experiences, the resort preserves its legacy as the longest-running desert escape in the UAE.
    For more information visit: Bab Al Shams, Al Qudra Road, Dubai, rates from Dhs1,500, reopening February 10, 2023. Tel: (0)4 809 6100,
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More