Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort has opened its doors in the UAE, set to a backdrop of sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf.

Situated on a private peninsula, the 174-room resort features lush gardens, an infinity pool and a natural mangrove sanctuary, all of which are backdropped by the Hajar mountains.

A range of accommodation is available, including contemporary and spacious guestrooms and suites located in the main building or set within traditional riads, designed to be modern yet locally-inspired.

The resort, which was designed by Wilson Associates and Perkins Eastman, also introduces Maldivian-inspired luxury to Ras Al Khaimah, showcasing the emirate’s first over-water villas with ample living space, an expansive outdoor deck featuring a private plunge pool and a reserved cabana on the villa-only beach.

With six restaurants and bars, Anantara Mina Al Arab guests enjoy the luxury of choice when they dine. Signature restaurant Mekong offers a culinary journey through Thailand, Vietnam and China, showcasing dishes from Asia’s most storied waterway. Beach House draws inspiration from the laidback living of the Mediterranean, providing fresh coastal cuisine. Further F&B options include Sea Breeze, the all-day dining restaurant, a gourmet deli, pool bar, and lobby lounge and bar.

The resort also offers extensive leisure facilities, including an infinity swimming pool, fitness centre overlooking the mangroves, padel court and a yoga pavilion. Anantara Spa meanwhile is set within manicured gardens overlooking the sea and the groves, with facilities including seven treatment rooms and wet areas.

Anantara Mina Al Arab showcases a commitment to preserving nature through strategies that eliminate plastic use while reducing waste and energy consumption.  All accommodation has been sustainably built, with furniture and fittings using eco-friendly materials such as sustainable wood and recycled fabrics and plastics. Great care was taken not to disturb the surrounding ecosystem, including the mangroves which remain home to sea turtles, fish and a variety of rare bird breeds.

“We are proud to launch our luxury Anantara brand in Ras Al Khaimah, which is the brand’s ninth property in the United Arab Emirates,” says Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Minor International. “We are confident that the new resort will be well received by the market and will help with the continued growth and positioning of the emirate as a luxury tourist destination.”

Sameh Muhtadi, CEO of RAK Properties adds: “The opening of the Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort will greatly contribute to realising RAK Properties’ vision for Mina Al Arab, transforming it into the leading lifestyle destination within the emirate. This launch marks the second hospitality opening in our development, and we’re happy to be offering visitors a unique, new luxury beachfront experience that also respects the natural and stunning beauty of its environment.”