Susan’s Blog: Spotlight on two stunning Anantara Hotels in the UAE

Last November, I was lucky enough to stay at two incredible Anantara hotels in the UAE, each offering something completely different but equally special. If you’re looking for luxury, exceptional service and a memorable stay, these are two properties well worth considering...

Anantara Downtown Dubai Hotel

Anantara Downtown Dubai is a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, just 20 minutes from the airport. Once you step inside the grand doors, the bustle of downtown Dubai fades away, replaced by a sense of calm. The welcoming lobby, with its elegant flower arrangements, personal check-in desks and a refreshing Arabic tea on arrival, sets the tone for a luxurious stay.

The hotel features 252 rooms and suites spread over 35 floors. My room on the 19th floor was incredibly spacious at 52 square metres, with stunning views over the city. Some even overlook the Burj Khalifa.

For those who want to treat themselves, the suites with private balconies are a fantastic upgrade. A highlight for me was the automatic blinds; with the touch of a button, the city disappeared, creating an instant sanctuary.

Dining here is a treat, with three fantastic restaurants. The Indian and Japanese speciality restaurants are perfect for an indulgent evening, but I chose to dine at Nine7One, the all-day dining venue. The outdoor section, filled with tropical plants and trees, made for a stunning setting - you’d never guess you were in the middle of the city. If you're staying on a half-board basis, you can enjoy either a buffet or a three-course à la carte meal here. The food was outstanding, with multiple live cooking stations tempting you to try everything!

Despite being surrounded by skyscrapers, the outdoor pool and spa area provide a surprisingly relaxing escape.

And of course, the location is unbeatable, with easy access to Dubai’s top attractions - The Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountains, and even the desert, are all within easy reach. Taxis in Dubai are very reasonably priced, so getting around is effortless.

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Downtown Dubai with excellent service and easy access to everything, Anantara Downtown is a fantastic choice.

Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort

For something completely different, I then headed north to the brand new Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort, a stunning beachfront retreat nestled among natural mangroves, just an hour from Dubai.

This resort is pure luxury, offering 174 rooms, suites and even overwater pool villas. The standard room categories are spacious and beautifully designed, with views of the gardens, lagoon or sea.

I was lucky enough to explore one of the overwater villas, which offer the ultimate in privacy and luxury - but unlike the Maldives, you won’t be climbing down a ladder into the water, as the lagoon isn’t for swimming.

The resort’s beach is lovely, and the sea was beautifully calm - I swam daily! There’s also a huge pool, with attendants who set up your lounger, provide towels and keep you stocked with bottled water from your own personal cooler.

Dining at Anantara Mina Al Arab was another highlight. Half board is well worth it here, as you can choose to dine in the speciality restaurants or at Sea Breeze, which offers one of the best buffets I’ve ever seen.

Breakfast is also served here; with indoor and outdoor seating and service that’s second to none - your coffee cup is never empty! For a light lunch, the poolside bar serves great snacks, and there’s also a café on-site.

I had two standout dinners whilst I was there...

The Beach House

The Beach House serves Mediterranean cuisine in a stunning beachfront setting.

Mekong

Meking takes you on a journey through the Orient with Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese dishes.

Beyond the dining, the resort offers a fantastic spa, a wide selection of watersports and a kids’ club and pool for families.

If you’re looking to explore, Ras Al Khaimah has some fascinating cultural sites, including the National Museum, Dhayah Fort and Al Jazeera Al Hamra, the only remaining historical pearling village in the entire Gulf region.

For adventure seekers, you can visit Jebel Jais for Jais Sledder, a solar-powered toboggan run; Jais Flight, the world's longest zipline; or even Bear Grylls’ Explorer Camp. It’s a fantastic destination for those who want more than just a beach holiday.

The Perfect Twin-Centre Holiday

I truly think Anantara Mina Al Arab makes the perfect twin-centre holiday when combined with a few nights in Dubai. You can start with the buzz and excitement of the city before escaping to the tranquillity of Ras Al Khaimah to unwind.

If you want an alternative to staying in Downtown Dubai, you could also consider Anantara the Palm Dubai Resort, where I stayed a few years ago. Located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, this resort offers lagoon access rooms and overwater villas, giving you the best of both worlds - easy access to the city with a tropical island feel.