When the need to disconnect from city stresses truly hits, a remote hotel stay is just what the doctor ordered. From private island resorts, to luxury glamping in the mountains, these MICHELIN Guide resorts in the Gulf each offer a tranquil escape to reset and relax in no time at all.
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Our Habitas AlUla
Saudi Arabia
For those who like the idea of solitude with socialising on the side, Our Habitas AlUla is a desert resort focused on connection rather than confinement. Situated deep in Saudi Arabia’s Ashar Valley's box canyon, with 96 luxury villas, the resort offers luxury-hotel comforts alongside group hikes, ATV tours, and visits to the archaeological site of Hegra. Lazing by the breathtaking pool area is equally encouraged.
Alila Jabal Akhdar
Oman
Tucked away in Oman’s Al Hajar mountain range, Alila Jabal Akhdar is a boutique hotel that offers true rustic charm. The journey may demand driving through some seriously winding mountain roads, but this arguable only adds to its hidden gem appeal. Choose from 78 spacious suites each with private stone balconies and views of the horizon to boot. We recommend a dip in the infinity pool to really take stock of the unique surroundings.
Zulal Wellness Resort
Qatar
With an emphasis on detoxification and holistic health, Qatar’s Zulal Wellness Resort goes above and beyond your typical health retreat. First, there’s the striking setting. Clear blue waters from the winding lagoon-style pools and the resort’s endless clean lines are instantly calm-inducing. Then there’s the resort ethos. This adult-only, alcohol-free destination has incredible spa and treatment programmes to whisk guests a world away from their 9 to 5. And what could feel more disconnecting than the no-wifi policy?
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Al Maha, Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is often perceived as two sides of the same coin: one half ultra modernity and one half natural beauty. Al Maha sits firmly on the latter side, nestled in the unspoiled dunes of the desert and offering a welcome slice of escape from the city’s opulence. Don’t be deceived by the bedouin-style suites and wildlife safaris, no luxury is spared during this five star stay.
Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi’s low-lying Saadiyat Island is frequented for its natural turquoise waters and pristine sandy beaches. At Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort, guests get this and more. Competing hotels become sparse and the traffic disperses on the grand driveway approach for an altogether peaceful welcome. Take in the contemporary-luxe décor and don’t skip a visit to the stand-alone spa with Moroccan bath and hammam, ice fountain, plunge pool and salt room.
Caravan by Habitas AlUla
Saudi Arabia
Nothing humbles a feeling of ‘remoteness’ quite like camping. But what if the notion of being ‘at one with nature’ could be achieved without giving up on life’s luxuries? At Caravan by Habitas AlUla in Saudi Arabia, it can. Book one of the luxury airstreams (complete with private outdoor decks) for maximum comfort in the wilderness and an off-the-beaten-path experience hidden away in the stunning Ashar Valley. A canyon sound bath is just the thing to further immerse into the surroundings.
Six Senses Zighy Bay
Oman
Accessible only by four-wheel drive up the steep and winding mountains of Oman's northern Musandam Peninsula, Six Senses Zighy Bay exists like a village of its own. With implemented recycling systems, organic farming and marine conservation all on-site, the team’s mission for sustainability is catching. Whether guests choose to sink into their private pool ー many of which overlook turtle-filled oceans and crab-accommodated sands ー or join in with morning hikes, yoga, stargazing and outdoor cinema, this is a sanctuary many return to year after year.
Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara
Qatar
What could be more remote than an actual private island? Sail swiftly away from Qatar’s vibrant capital by private catamaran to check into the over-water villas of Banana Island. A golden stretch of 800m shoreline awaits, peppered with lush botanical gardens and 141 rooms and suits to choose from. For a split second, one might think they’ve woken up in The Maldives.
