One of the fastest growing tourism destinations in the UAE, popular for its history, nature, culture and year-round sunshine, Ras Al Khaimah is attracting more discerning travellers from around the world every year. To cater to this boom, new hotels and resorts are being built to add to the destination’s already world-class portfolio of accommodation options. Here are some of the most exciting new additions opening soon.
Anantara Mina Al Arab
Set to open by the end of 2023, this eco-luxury resort, nestled among mangroves and lagoons in a natural reserve, will offer Maldivian-style over-water pool villas, the first in Ras Al Khaimah, plus rooms and suites, all sustainably built and with balconies overlooking nature. Anantara’s signature spa and Southeast Asian dining experiences will also stand out at this unique property, located at Mina Al Arab.
Cloud7 Camp Jebel Jais
For something completely new and different, community conscious operator Kerten Hospitality is dropping in to set up a mountain glamping experience like no other. Also set to open this year (2023), Cloud7 Camp Jebel Jais promises a sky-high getaway with an eco-luxe edge. Stay in one of 30 sustainably built units set among the rugged landscape – the perfect base to explore the mountains and experience traditional Emirati and Bedouin hospitality. Of course, the world’s longest zipline is close by for a once-in-a-lifetime experience guaranteed to thrill.
Nobu Hotel
Famous hospitality brand Nobu will debut in Ras Al Khaimah with a hotel, residences and its iconic Japanese-fusion restaurant, Nobu, helmed by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa and Hollywood great Robert de Niro. With a prime beachfront location on Al Marjan Island, the five-star property will offer a choice of 165 rooms and suites, or for special occasions, the rooftop Nobu Villa when it opens in 2026.
Rove Al Marjan Island
A lifestyle beach resort appealing to modern, value-conscious travellers, Rove Al Marjan Island will feature 441 rooms, including interconnecting options for families, a beach club concept, a pool with sundeck, plus the convenience of a fitness centre, store and even a laundromat open 24 hours a day. Mooted to open next year, colourful artworks and urban design will define the Rove brand’s first property in Ras Al Khaimah.
Le Méridien Al Marjan Island Resort and Spa
Another brand debut for Al Marjan Island, which has 23km of coastline primed for blissful resort life, is Le Méridien, which will open a 350-room resort in 2026. Another beachfront gem, it will indulge guests with bars and restaurants, and a range of recreational facilities including a fitness centre, swimming pool, spa and kids’ club. With hotel guests now appreciating multi-purpose spaces, the new Le Meridien Hub lobby concept will be the place to work, rest or play.
Earth Marjan Island
There’s a new brand in town and it’s called ‘Earth’, promising guests a “break from the ordinary” and a place to “get grounded”. It’s not surprising then that one of its first properties will be located on Ras Al Khaimah’s Marjan Island, offering sustainably built resort rooms, cabana rooms and duplex sky suites, plus indoor and outdoor communal spaces including a dining social hub and central bar. With socialising high on the agenda, Earth Marjan Island, opening soon, will host DJs, dance parties and more, adding to its “effortlessly cool and social vibe”.
Earth Hotel Altitude
Earth Hotels is also heading for the mountains – the UAE’s tallest peak, Jebel Jais, that is – with Earth Altitude, located at 1,934 metres above sea level, described as a “minimalist’s dream”. Ideal for adventure lovers, just 16 retreats will be seamlessly tucked into the rugged Jebel Jais terrain, as well as a fitness centre. It will provide easy access to hiking trails and cycling tracks, as well at the world’s longest zipline, of course.
Saij, A Mantis Collection Mountain Lodge
Another mountain escape with strong eco credentials, backed by a brand with 23 years of operating world-class sustainable properties globally, is Saij, A Mantis Collection Mountain Lodge on Jebel Jais. Offering 35 luxury ecolodges, mindful activities and guided treks, true to the Mantis mantra, the retreat will be “an exceptional place to find yourself” when it opens soon.
