While the Eid Al-Fitr holiday is shorter this year, the opportunity for a luxurious getaway still remains. The region boasts an array of destinations within easy reach whether you plan on a road trip or a short-haul flight. Unwind, relax and connect with your loved ones this Eid at some of the most beautiful resorts in the region.
Anantara Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah
UAE
As you step into the private peninsula where Anantara Mina Al Arab is located, there’s a sense of serenity that envelops you, like a luxurious embrace after the emotionally and physically challenging month of Ramadan. The resort’s main draw is its overwater villas which come equipped with one or two bedrooms, outdoor decking with a private plunge pool, complimentary massages and terrace barbecue experiences that allow for a long weekend of much-needed relaxation. There are also 174 rooms and suites in the main building, six restaurants and bars, a spa, an infinity pool, and a range of watersports and local activities – you wouldn’t lack for anything throughout your stay. To top it off, the property will be hosting an Eid lunch at Sea Breeze, one of its signature restaurants, with engaging activities for young ones and a delectable buffet complete with live cooking stations. Book Now
Our Habitas Ras Abrouq
Qatar
A 90-minute drive from Doha, on Qatar’s west coast amongst sea and sand dunes, this site offers a range of outdoor activities in quiet surroundings on the edge of the UNESCO-protected Al-Reem Biosphere. The resort comprises 42 villas, ranging from one to four bedrooms, each blending into the landscape with an outdoor swimming pool and direct beach access. As you readjust your schedule post-Ramadan, a relaxing retreat offers the perfect opportunity to get back into your body’s new rhythm comfortably. There is a single restaurant, Qissa, providing all meals, while the spa lists an impressive range of treatments, with a gym, sound healing and yoga available. Try hiking, paddle-boarding, kayaking and padel tennis to make the most of the natural setting. Book Now
Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat
UAE
Escape to Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi, an adults-only destination located between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, to celebrate the first Eid of the year. The property boasts 22 rooms and suites designed to provide a home-away-from-home feeling and offers the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of the city while only being an hour away. Although the resort will be hosting iftars and suhoors throughout the Holy Month, it is the lavish Eid Lunch Celebration at the breathtaking Oia Oasis you don’t want to miss. Here, a meticulously crafted buffet dinner, featuring festive favourites and seasonal delights, is complemented by the serenade of soulful strains of the Oud, creating an atmosphere of joy and relaxation. Book Now
St Regis Red Sea Resort
Saudi Arabia
Just a three-hour flight away, the Red Sea has become a prominent long-weekend destination for those of us in the UAE, and you can't go far wrong with the St Regis Red Sea. Located 22km from the mainland on one of the Ummahat Islands, (which is accessible by sea plane or speedboat), there are 90 spacious, shell-shaped overwater and beachfront villas, each offering a private pool, sun deck and amazing views. At the centre of the resort are the spa, watersports centre, main pool and the beach. You can choose to dine at Arabian restaurant Nesma, the overwater Tilina, or Japanese Gishiki 45, however, if you’re someone who would like to enjoy their Eid lunch with more privacy, the in-villa dining services are top-notch too. Book Now
Mandarin Oriental, Muscat
Oman
Situated near Qurum Beach and the Royal Opera House Muscat (a location that affords both sea and mountain views), this is the first Mandarin Oriental property in Oman. Complementing the unmistakeable Mandarin Oriental essence is the infusion of heritage through the use of local materials, including Desert Rose marble and Ashwood, across the sprawling property's breathtaking accommodation options (that is, 103 rooms, 47 suites and 156 branded residences). Mandarin Oriental, Muscat's restaurants include Essenza, an Italian eatery serving traditional fare, as well as the renowned Mandarin Cake Shop, which makes for the perfect afternoon pit-stop to enjoy coffee and sweet treats. Round-out your trip with a visit to the spa and explore an array of Asian-inspired treatments and a hammam, as well as an impressive pool and fitness centre. Book Now
Raffles Al Areen Palace
Bahrain
Situated near the Formula 1 racetrack, Raffles Al Areen Palace is The Kingdom's first and only luxurious all-villa escape. There are 78 individual residences with a choice of one, two or three bedrooms, each of which features a garden, courtyard and private pool. A journey to the artwork-adorned main building will lead to you Palma, the resort's Mediterranean restaurant, and the Ycone Paris patisserie, as well as the spa, gym and tennis courts. Intimate and secluded, Raffles Al Areen Palace allows visitors to completely disconnect from the everyday before paces return to normal in the post-Ramadan world. Book Now
Dar Tantora The House Hotel, Alula Old Town
Saudi Arabia
AlUla is one of the historic centres of Saudi Arabia - it was a vital stop on incense trade routes in the 12th century and is The Kingdom's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled within the almost-otherworldly landscape is Dar Tantora The House Hotel, which mirrors the materials and architectural style of the surrounds throughout the 30-room boutique hotel. Not only has the eco-conscious property incorporated remains of traditional buildings within its design, but candlelight is used post-sundown and original irrigation and ventilation systems have been restored to minimise energy usage and environmental impact. Book now
