How do you feel about waking up in luxury? We have good news for you–no one does luxury better than the Arab world. Many travelers and pleasure seekers think you can’t do better than tropical islands or major European capitals, but the real, old-money luxury lies in the Middle East.
So if you’re ready to treat yourself to something truly special and see riches and beauty you didn’t even know existed, we present you with a few best and most unique hotels in the Arab world. Let’s dive in then!
The Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE
You heard about 5-star hotels, but did you know about 7-star hotels? Officially, there are no hotels with seven stars, but Dubai’s Burj Al Arab is a shining example of contemporary Arab opulence, so it is in a category of its own. Not only is the hotel’s sail-shaped silhouette striking when it emerges from the Persian Gulf, but it also represents lavish hospitality. Every moment feels like a scenario from a contemporary Arabian fairytale with amenities like underwater tank dining, gold-infused treatments, and hovering helicopter transports available to guests.
Extra opulent options include private beach access and chauffeured Rolls-Royce drives. Each apartment is a duplex with views of the Gulf that spans the blue waters, and it comes with a personal butler service that is available around the clock.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi, UAE
The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort is a luxurious oasis mirage situated in the ethereal Empty Quarter, the world’s largest continuous sand desert. Encapsulating the essence of Arabian adventure and tranquillity, the resort offers activities like camel rides at sunset and private dinners beneath the stars, combining the rustic allure of a desert palace with the luxurious luxuries of a world-class hotel.
As with most places in Abu Dhabi, this hotel is full of opulent interiors decorated with Arabian antiques–you’ll see that this place looks like a historical desert stronghold. To enhance the architecture even more, you’ll get to enjoy many interesting cultural experiences such as falconry shows and authentic Arabian spa treatments.
Ad Diriyah Hotel, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Located near the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif, the Ad Diriyah Hotel is a gateway to Saudi Arabia’s rich past and vibrant future. The hotel’s design is inspired by traditional Najdi architecture, featuring intricate Arabian detailing and luxurious modern amenities.
A standout feature is its proximity to the most unique Saudi Arabia museum, the AlUla Living Museum, an interactive living museum that showcases the nation’s heritage and the transformative power of contemporary art. Guests can immerse themselves in a historical narrative while enjoying state-of-the-art facilities, including fine dining restaurants that blend traditional Saudi flavors with global gastronomy, and a spa that offers treatments derived from ancient Arabian rituals.
The Royal Mansour, Marrakech, Morocco
Hold on, are we not discussing the Middle East and the Arab world? Morocco can rightfully claim a representative on this list despite being a member of the Arab League despite its location in Northern Africa. With over a thousand artisans’ hands, the Royal Mansour in Marrakech is a monument to Moroccan craftsmanship. The hotel is tucked away behind walls in the heart of the city and offers riads, or traditional dwellings, in place of rooms and suites.
With a plunge pool and rooftop patio of its own, each riad is a haven that offers a private, royal experience reminiscent of the way Moroccan nobility lived. The service is unobtrusive, and to guarantee the highest level of secrecy, staff members navigate a system of subterranean tunnels. World-class chefs create the culinary experiences, which feature a selection of foreign and traditional Moroccan cuisines cooked with the freshest ingredients from the hotel’s gardens.
Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, Salalah, Oman
Between a beach that kisses the Arabian Sea and a backdrop of lush palm groves, Al Baleed Resort Salalah offers a refreshing escape in the often-overlooked part of the Arabian Peninsula. This resort combines the exotic allure of Omani culture with the unspoiled beauty of the region. The luxury villas with private pools and the world-class spa using local frankincense ensure a relaxing and rejuvenating retreat.
The resort also boasts a unique archaeological site that guests can explore, alongside water sports and camel rides along the beach. Dining options showcase a mix of Arabian, Asian, and seafront seafood restaurants, emphasizing Salalah’s rich, cultural mosaic and maritime heritage.
Exploring the most distinctive hotels in the Arab world is an examination of architectural grandeur and cultural majesty, not to mention sumptuous lodging. These hotels are more than just places to stay while the sun sets over colorful marketplaces or dunes; they are doorways to the heart of the area. They are havens where cutting-edge luxury and storied hospitality collide, with each element revealing a tale of creativity and legacy. This trip through the Arab world is more than just a place to visit; it’s an incredible voyage into the pinnacle of luxury.
Over to you
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