Dubai, the City of Lights, pulsates with an electrifying energy that draws in revelers from around the globe. But come December, as the festive spirit takes hold, the urban buzz can transform into a sensory overload. If you’re seeking a more serene escape this holiday season, look beyond the city’s glittering skyscrapers and bustling souks. Nestled amidst the golden sands and rugged mountains, lie hidden gems offering a tranquil contrast to the festive frenzy. So, ditch the downtown crowd and start on a serene adventure with these 5 festive retreats beyond the Dubai city center:
1. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa:
Step into a timeless Arabian сказка (fairytale) at the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa. Nestled amidst towering sand dunes, this luxurious oasis offers a complete retreat from the urban clamor. Each private Bedouin-style villa comes with its own pool, sundeck, and majlis (sitting area), allowing you to soak in the tranquility of the desert under a canopy of stars. Celebrate Christmas Eve with a traditional Emirati feast under the desert sky, followed by caroling around a crackling bonfire. For New Year’s Eve, escape the cacophony of fireworks and indulge in a candlelit dinner under the Milky Way, making wishes upon shooting stars. Al Maha offers a unique blend of festive cheer and desert serenity, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.
2. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort:
Another haven for peace-seekers is the Bab Al Shams Desert Resort. This sprawling resort, modeled after a traditional fort, blends seamlessly with the surrounding dunes. Luxuriate in a private villa with its own courtyard and plunge pool, or unwind in the hammam, enveloped in the scent of fragrant oils. Embrace the festive spirit with a Christmas brunch amidst swaying palm trees, followed by a stargazing session guided by an expert astronomer. Ring in the New Year with a Bedouin-inspired desert barbecue, complete with belly dancers and traditional music. Bab Al Shams promises a captivating escape from the city’s festive frenzy, allowing you to reconnect with nature and celebrate under the vast desert sky.
3. Hatta Damani Lodges:
Nestled amidst the Hajar Mountains, the Hatta Damani Lodges offer a haven for nature lovers. These rustic stone and wood lodges overlook the serene Hatta Dam, promising breathtaking views and a refreshing escape from the city’s heat. Savor festive cheer by the crackling fireplace in your lodge, or gather around a communal bonfire for storytelling and stargazing. For Christmas, enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner with stunning mountain vistas as your backdrop. On New Year’s Eve, escape the light pollution and indulge in a candlelit picnic beside the dam, whispering wishes into the crisp mountain air. Hatta Damani Lodges promise a cozy and intimate festive retreat, perfect for reconnecting with loved ones and nature.
4. Oberoi Zahra Al Wathba:
Experience the untouched beauty of the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter), the world’s largest sand desert, at the Oberoi Zahra Al Wathba. This luxurious desert resort blends contemporary design with traditional Emirati elements, creating a haven of tranquility. Unwind in your private villa with its infinity pool overlooking the endless dunes, or pamper yourself at the world-class spa. Celebrate Christmas Eve with a gourmet feast in the resort’s signature restaurant, followed by a traditional carol performance. For New Year’s Eve, embark on a desert safari under a star-studded sky, ending the night with a lavish gala dinner and fireworks display. Oberoi Zahra Al Wathba offers a luxurious escape, where festive indulgence meets desert serenity.
5. Six Senses Zighy Bay:
For a secluded beach escape, look no further than Six Senses Zighy Bay, nestled amidst the dramatic Musandam fjords. This eco-conscious resort offers stunning beachfront villas with private pools, each one a haven of comfort and tranquility. Relax on the pristine sands, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, or embark on a dolphin-watching cruise. Celebrate Christmas with a festive beach barbecue, enjoying fresh seafood and live music under the palm trees. Ring in the New Year with a starlit gala dinner on the beach, followed by a mesmerizing traditional Omani fire dance. Six Senses Zighy Bay promises a barefoot luxury experience, where festive joys meld seamlessly with the rhythm of the ocean.
So, this festive season, ditch the Dubai downtown crowds and embark on a serene adventure to one of these hidden gems. Whether you seek the vastness of the desert, the majesty of the mountains, or the tranquility of the beach, these festive retreats offer a unique escape, allowing you to celebrate the holidays in a truly unforgettable way.