Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah is a luxury all-pool villa desert resort situated in a stunning location around Wadi Khadeja, against the backdrop of the Al Hajjar Mountains.
Why you'll love it here
- Visit 'The Rainforest', a complete hydrothermal sanctuary with 16 hydrothermal therapies and world-class facilities
- Complimentary beach and pool access at Al Hamra Beach, just 15 minutes’ shuttle ride away
- Fascinating daily experiences include falconry shows and owl interaction
- Experience a private dinner amongst the desert dunes or at the top of Safran Tower
Peter
Travel Specialist
Your holiday always includes
- Premium lounge passes at UK airports
- VIP meet & greet service at departure
- Private transfers to and from your hotel
- Personal concierge service throughout
- 24/7 assistance when travelling
- The first-hand knowledge of our team
Full accommodation information
Hotel information
Set amid stretches of desert sand in tranquil Wadi Khadeja, this luxury Ras Al Khaimah resort is an oasis of indulgence spanning over 100 hectares, of which 60 hectares is a dedicated nature reserve.
This is also the first desert resort in the United Arab Emirates to offer an all-pool villa concept, complete with 3,000 square metres of Asian-inspired hydrotherapy spa facilities, a private beach club and an 18-hole championship golf course.
With views of the Arabian Gulf and the magnificent Al Hajjar Mountains, each of the luxuriously appointed villas at The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah tells the story of a rich Bedouin heritage; they all have private pools and are adorned with the finest furnishings and amenities.
Evenings are spent in one of two fabulous restaurants, with the signature 'Safran' offering authentic Thai cuisine and Southeast Asian delicacies. Or you may wish to opt for the 'Destination Dining', where you will sample traditional dishes as you sit Bedouin-style at the camp-fire – a unique experience, set atop rolling sand dunes under a vast Arabian sky.
Decadent nights are followed by lazy days around your private pool or a trip to the Ritz-Carlton Spa; with ten treatment pavilions and hydrotherapy facilities, you'll experience a delightful range of award-winning spa therapies.
Room Options
Drawing on Bedouin design, each villa gives you space to unwind in your own private pool, set against uninterrupted desert views. Inside, generous living areas and bathrooms are framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, bringing the landscape in. For a more secluded stay, the Signature Villas offer the highest level of privacy and space.
Al Rimal Pool Villa
Set over 158 sqm, this traditional brick Al Rimal Pool Villa is thoughtfully arranged to give you both space and privacy. You have a king-size bed, a generous bathroom and a comfortable living area that flows out to a shaded terrace with a private plunge pool and wide desert views. For families, a sliding door creates a separate sleeping area for children, adding welcome flexibility to your stay.
Al Khaimah Tented Pool Villa
The moment you check into this Al Khaimah Tented Pool Villa, you’ll be transported to a luxurious world among the dunes, which are drenched with the warm tinge of a sunrise or sunset vista, depending on your choice. Your king-size bed anchors a generous open-plan living space, and the spacious bathroom comes with a statement bathtub and direct access to your outdoor deck.
Al Sahari Tented Pool Villa
Experience a high level of privacy in this 253 sqm Al Sahari Tented Pool Villa. Positioned discreetly among the dunes, with its own spacious bedroom and living area, it makes for a perfect personal retreat in the desert. Outside, there’s a generous terrace and private swimming pool that open onto uninterrupted views of Al Wadi, giving you space and calm throughout your stay.
Al Sarab Tented Villa
Panoramic desert views and sunset skies surround this 253sqm Al Sarab Tented Villa. Inside, generous living and sleeping spaces create a sense of ease and privacy. Your stay includes a welcome gift, a bottle of champagne, butler service, a complimentary minibar, sunset drinks and a private fire pit. You also benefit from a 30-minute upgrade on selected spa treatments.
Signature Villa
Claim the pure seclusion of this Signature Villa as your own, accessible by a private entrance that leads you straight onto the dunes. Your king-size bedroom and expansive living areas flow into generous indoor and outdoor spaces. Throughout your stay, enjoy butler service, a Champagne welcome, an in-villa breakfast and personalised amenities tailored to you.Restaurants & Bars
Against the backdrop of the Ras Al Khaimah desert, dining here ranges from farm-to-table UAE cuisine to Pan-Asian dishes inspired by the five Chinese elements. You can dine among the dunes, beside the lake or beneath open desert skies, with each setting bringing a different perspective on the landscape.
Farmhouse by Syrco
At Farmhouse by Syrco, acclaimed chef Syrco Bakker takes inspiration from the UAE’s culinary heritage, pairing regional flavours with a more contemporary approach. Provenance and seasonality shape the menu, while the relaxed setting keeps the focus on the food, the desert surroundings and the connection to the landscape.
Gobi
At Gobi, you get to tuck into a Pan-Asian dining experience shaped by the five Chinese elements, all within the resort’s striking desert landscape. The refined, contemporary setting is matched by a menu where balance and precision define every dish. Savour layered flavours, aromatic spices and textures inspired by Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water.
Kaheela
Kaheela serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in an understated setting. The menu moves between international favourites and Middle Eastern and Indian specialities, with aromatic spices and fresh herbs bringing depth to each dish. The atmosphere is easy-going throughout the day, making it equally suited to a slow breakfast as to a relaxed evening meal.
Paddock Café
At Paddock Café, you’ll enjoy relaxed, open-air dining at the equestrian centre, with views of resident horses and roaming wildlife, including oryx and gazelle, across the desert reserve. Choose from light international dishes, fresh patisserie and a curated selection of beverages, all served in a casual, nature-inspired setting throughout the day.
Destination Dining
There are several private dining locations across the desert, each offering a completely different setting. You might find yourself dining beneath the stars or beside a campfire among the dunes, with menus tailored to your tastes and occasion. Wherever you choose, the desert backdrop adds a real sense of occasion to the whole experience.
Al Wadi Tower
Atop an authentic Arabic watchtower, the sweeping views of the desert dunes at sunset make for the perfect setting to celebrate special occasions in a truly striking location. While gazing out over the magical sights revolving all around you at Al Wadi Tower, sink your taste buds into a bespoke six-course menu, thoughtfully curated and tailored to your preferences.
Oasis Pool & Bar
Oasis Pool & Bar is a relaxed spot to spend time between desert activities. Alongside the temperature-controlled pool, you’ll find a Jacuzzi and a separate children’s pool, making it particularly well-suited to families. The atmosphere is informal and easy-going, with views stretching out towards the surrounding desert landscape.
Activities & Entertainment
Savour the freshest produce sourced from the region in the restaurants at Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah. From popular international dishes and local Arabic specialities at Al Wadi to the authentic Thai cuisine found at the signature restaurant, Safran, there’s something to suit every taste. For something truly special, opt for the Western or Arabian Style BBQs, where a personal chef and butler serve you on a private dining platform. Perfect!
Spend your days taking part in a range of exciting activities. The Activity Centre runs bountiful educational experiences, such as classes in desert flora and fauna. Head to the world-class Falconry Mews, where you can learn all about the Falcons and indigenous owls at the site, including how to hunt with them. Enjoy shows and spectacular panoramic views from the Falconry Deck, or try your hand at bird watching, archery, horse riding and camel trekking.
Al Wadi Nature Reserve is the first of its kinds in Ras Al Khaimah. You’ll see all sorts of indigenous animals roaming around, especially Sand gazelle and the endangered Arabian oryx.
The children will have a brilliant time at the Kids’ Club, where they can enjoy educational and fun games, crafts and bedtime stories under the stars.
Ras Al Khaimah travel information
- Time zone: +4 GMT
- Flight time: 7- 8 hours
- Recommended airlines: Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Emirates
- Currency: UAE Dirham
- Tipping guideline: 10-15% of total bill
- Health considerations: travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/233/united-arab-emirates
- Capital: Ras Al Khaimah
- Population: 345,000
- National languages: Arabic, English
- Electricity and plugs: Type G, 220-240V AC
- Mobile phone coverage: Good
- UK passport visa requirements: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/united-arab-emirates/entry-requirements
Want to know more?
Call our Travel Specialists for a chat with our Ras-al-khaimah experts. They'll share their first-hand insights so you can find your perfect holiday.
Monday - Friday: 9am - 7:30pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Peter
Travel Specialist
Ras Al Khaimah travel guides
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