Penguin Approved: The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert
Welcome to our brand new Penguin Approved series, where we set out to spotlight the most inspiring destinations the team at Penguin London personally experiences and genuinely falls in love with. Our recent retreat to The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert easily made the cut and was an unforgettable stay that blends barefoot luxury with Arabian magic.
Tucked away in a 1,235-acre protected nature reserve, this Ritz-Carlton property is a serene escape that feels worlds away from the everyday. It’s just over an hour from Dubai, yet the second you arrive, time slows down with sweeping sand dunes, wild animal sightings, and absolute tranquillity.
Our villa was stunning. It was a lavish, standalone retreat, complete with a private pool and floor-to-ceiling windows that looked out over the desert. The interior was a perfect marriage of traditional Arabian design and five-star luxury: high timber ceilings, plush bedding, an oversized bathtub, and thoughtful details at every turn.
Waking up to silence, a cup of coffee on the terrace, and the sight of oryx grazing in the distance? Unbeatable.
The resort is beautifully spread out, with sandy pathways winding through the dunes. We loved how you can hop on your villa’s bikes to explore the reserve at your own pace. For longer distances, Ritz-Carlton’s on-demand buggies are just a quick call away. It’s seamless, relaxed, and totally in keeping with the desert pace of life.
One of the things we adored about the resort is how integrated it is with its surroundings. Every outdoor space is designed to help you connect with the landscape. The desert itself becomes part of the experience, whether you’re watching the sunset paint the dunes gold or spotting wildlife on a morning walk.
You’ll want to carve out time to just unwind, but there are so many great activities to take part in (at an extra cost). Camel and pony rides, wildlife experiences, archery, fishing, falconry and stargazing are just some of the incredible extras available.
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, is more than just a hotel; it’s a sanctuary. No matter the occasion, this property delivers peace, privacy, and prestige in every detail.
It has earned our Penguin Approved seal without hesitation, and we are happy to recommend it to our clients.
