Rakeen set to handover Banyan Tree Al Wadi resort project to operators
Banyan Tree Al Wadi will be the first resort in the UAE – and third in the Middle East –by award-winning Asian hospitality brand, Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts. The project is set to be the first luxury desert resort in the UAE to offer pool villas, hydrotherapy spa treatments, nature reserve and a beach club, among other attractions.
Pascal Eppink, General Manager, Banyan Tree Al Wadi, said, “The Banyan Tree Al Wadi, which will be the first Banyan Tree property in the UAE, is a destination property that will perfectly complement the rich heritage of Ras Al Khaimah. The Banyan Tree style of hospitality combined with traditional Arabian touch points will take the local hospitality scene to a whole new level.”
Ghassan Youssef, Managing Director, Rakeen, added, “As partners and master developers of the Banyan Tree Desert Resort, we are satisfied with the progress of the development and look forward to handing over this unique project to the operators this coming July. Our consultants have been very sensitive towards the desert setting by selecting materials, finishes, colours and textures that aesthetically blend with the resort and its landscape.”
The Banyan Tree Al Wadi – located in Wadi Khadeja – boasts 70 pool villas and 31 tented pool villas. Each villa is a tribute to the heritage of the region, with polished wood, high ceilings, elaborate Arabic touches of lattice woodwork, stylised motifs and intricate carvings in arabesque design defining the architectural elements. The external area of each villa features a private pool enveloped by verdant gardens, while the tented pool villas also include an outdoor shower.
The signature Banyan Tree Spa features 10 treatment pavilions, a hydrothermal circuit with a hammam and vitality pool for the most indulgent spa experiences delivered by therapists trained in the Banyan Tree Spa Academy in Phuket. Moreover, with five food and beverage venues available, guests will have the luxury to choose from a variety of dining options. Rakeen also pointed out that the development has already aroused global interest; among the international visitors who have expressed their admiration for the project is the Singaporean Consul – General who visited the site recently.
Herbert Krause, Director of Development, Rakeen, stated, “Each of the 101 chalets, whether in the block hotel or the tented Indaba (Majlis), is a suite featuring the generously spaced and lavishly furnished lounge cum bedroom, private terrace and pool with beautiful views across the desert. Also, the bathroom is a private leisure hub, incorporating massage facilities with state-of-the-art design features. Everyone at Rakeen and all consultants and contractors are proud to be associated with this groundbreaking project and are committed to make this resort development a success for Banyan Tree, Rakeen, Ras Al Khaimah and also the United Arab Emirates as a whole.”
