You can now stay in the first overwater villas in Ras Al Khaimah

If you’ve been daydreaming about going to the Maldives, this new resort boasts swoon-worthy overwater villas.

Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort has been on our radars for a while now. And with the latest updates from Minor Hotels, we know that it officially opens its doors today. Bringing the concept of eco-luxury to the shores of Ras Al Khaimah, the new resort will be the ninth property under the Minor Hotels portfolio in the UAE.

As for what makes the property stand out? Location, location, location. Set along the Arabian Gulf coastline on Mina Al Arab Island, with a backdrop of the majestic Hajar mountains, Anantara Mina Al Arab is situated amid 1.5 kilometres of mangroves and lagoons in a natural reserve. Designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, it features 174 guestrooms, suites and villas — the first overwater villas in the emirate included. All accommodation options offer a balcony or terrace with sweeping views of the lagoon, sea or surrounding landscapes, with the peninsula and overwater villas also boasting a private pool.

The option of interconnecting rooms and extra beds make the resort ideal for family getaways, as does an expansive terrace for al fresco dining and relaxation. All overwater villas have access to a secluded private beach, each with its own private beach cabana with à la carte service.

The accommodation has been built in a sustainable fashion, with furniture and fittings using eco-friendly materials such as sustainable wood and recycled fabrics and plastics. And with the property’s location amidst a mangrove lagoon, protected coastal wetlands, and pristine natural beaches, the area is home to abundant wildlife like turtles, dolphins, the rare dugong, and birds such as flamingos and ibis. A key priority for the resort will be to preserve and respect its local environment, which will be a focus of the sustainability initiatives. The likes of greywater-waste recycling, thermodynamics, and solar panels for water heating and a water bottling plant are also in place.

It can be argued that Anantara Spa is the crown jewel of the Anantara brand, so leisure seekers can expect seven treatment rooms, as well as a wet area and relaxation spaces. A menu of signature spa journeys inspired by Arabian and Turkish culture will be available, including hammam rituals. A fully equipped fitness centre with lagoon views will provide state-of-the-art equipment for workouts indoors, combined with a regular programme of activities around the resort for keen sports enthusiasts, including padel tennis courts.

Featuring its own sunken bar, a large outdoor pool is located just steps from the resort’s beach, where motorised water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking are available. A kids’ club, meanwhile, will engage and entertain the younger guests. Come dining, Mekong is home to Southeast Asian cuisine, while Beach House serves grilled fish and seafood. Elsewhere, international specialities from breakfast through dinner will be available at the all-day dining restaurant. In addition, a pool bar and a deli café each offer light bites throughout the day, with a lobby lounge also serving Champagne, fine wines, and gourmet nibbles in the evening.

GO: Visit www.anantara.com for more information.