Why These Destinations are Perfect for Winter Sun

From October to December, enjoy the welcoming warmth and breathtaking sunsets of the Arabian Peninsula. Home to captivating modern structures and unmatched hospitality within world-class hotels, it's a hotspot for adventurers and romantics alike. Explore unforgettable destinations such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE to make your journey truly memorable.

Discover the region's majestic mountains and serene deserts

Al Jabar Al Akhdar, Oman, boasts lush landscapes and terraced farms that flourish in the heart of the desert  (Photo: Getty Images)

Beyond the famed modernity of their towns and cities, the Gulf states have retained their golden desert landscapes, majestic mountain vistas and exquisitely starry night skies.

Just an hour's drive from Dubai, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert sits within a 1,235-acre protected nature reserve at Al Wadi. Ras Al Khaimah, one of the seven United Arab Emirates is the adventure capital of the UAE, encompassing an impressive section of the majestic Hajar mountains. From trekking and camel rides over the sand dunes, to nights under star-filled skies, a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert promises an experience that combines both desert oasis with luxury beyond compare.

Across the border on the other side of the Al Hajar Mountains in Oman, the Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel faces out toward the Sea of Oman. Each luxurious room or suite offering a magnificent view of either mountain, sea or garden. Alternatively, the brand new Aloft Muscat has a loft-like space that’s perfect for sharing Omani and international street food, while taking in the boutique design and upbeat atmosphere. This journey offers a glimpse into the wonders of this beautiful nation.

Treat yourself to the finest cuisine

Tabbouleh is a renowned Middle Eastern salad, celebrated for its reported health benefits. (Photo: Marriott International)

Qatar is a country that knows how to do things in style, and the award-winning cuisine by three-star Michelin Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten at the W Doha is sublime.

You might opt to bring your extended family or a group of friends to Delta Hotels City Center Doha, since it boasts three-bedroom apartments to share – not to mention striking views of the impressive city from Babylonia, the 30th-floor restaurant. The menu focuses on Levantine cuisine, paying tribute to its close neighbours. 

Abu Dhabi, the UAE's luxurious capital, never fails to put on a grand display. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the city's nighttime splendour at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi's lavish Stratos Revolving Lounge Bar and Grill. This landmark hotel also features carefully selected art pieces, encouraging further exploration of Abu Dhabi's emerging art scene.

In Dubai, at The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm, you can enjoy a sophisticated, contemporary take on Anatolian cooking at the elegant Rüya restaurant.

And if your taste buds seek something from even further afield, Assila, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Jeddah goes beyond its Saudi Arabian roots to transport diners to Latin America. At Pampas, chefs grill meat to perfection over acacia wood fires, all in an open-plan restaurant that invites you to enjoy the drama of the event.

Visit ancient souks and modern galleries for a taste of Middle Eastern culture

The Middle East's souks come in many shapes and sizes, but all share the same bustling atmosphere (Photo: Getty Images)

From traditional to modern, Dubai is rich in culture. Visit a souk or dine at local favourite restaurants to taste unique dishes like Iraqi masgouf fish and Iranian rice. Explore the Alserkal Avenue arts district for a taste of modern Dubai and finally relax on your private balcony at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. 

The Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding offers insights into Emirati customs and cultures. Here, traditional foods such as dates and luqaimat are enjoyed at communal cultural meals, providing a first-hand view of local practices. 

Alternatively, explore the ancient ruins of Ad Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site at At-Turaif and stay at the JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh, located in Riyadh. Or check into The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh and enjoy bowling and refreshing drinks at Strike Bowling Alley.

Experience diverse wildlife, expansive landscapes, and pristine starlit skies

When visiting the Middle East, you may have the opportunity to experience the place of traditional falconry in Arab culture (Photo: Getty Images)

Beyond the high rises, cities of the Middle East offer the kind of excursions where you can escape urbanity and see everything from nesting turtles to wild flora. Stay in a villa inspired by Emirati traditional dwellings, the Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi, and take a deep dive into local life, surrounded by wildlife and big, open skies. 

Once you’ve thrilled at the many family-oriented theme parks at Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection, a trip to the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a welcome moment of calm to observe birds and other fauna in urban wetlands.

Explore the wonders of the sea, from the Arabian Sea to the Persian Gulf

Beneath the surface of the ocean lies a whole other Middle Eastern wonderland  waiting to be explored (Photo: Getty Images)

With the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman forming a boundary around the Arabian Peninsula, you’ll have no problem finding a sugar-white beach anywhere from Saudi Arabia to the UAE. 

Located on Saudi Arabia's west coast, The Ritz-Carlton, Jeddah is set on the Al Hamra corniche and the new Jeddah Waterfront. The hotel features sea-view guest rooms and suites and it's the perfect place to immerse yourself in the history of Jeddah.

In Qatar, at the St. Regis Doha, you’ll find a Guerlain spa and a dazzling beach bejewelled with private cabanas. Dine at world-renowned Hakkasan or stay beachside at the Oyster Bay restaurant. Reached by a bridge, its sister property The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar offers a unique take on waterfront stays, courtesy of its island location.

A feature of the Abu Dhabi cityscape since 1979, Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort's white-sand beach offers an iconic vantage point on the UAE capital's skyline in one direction and the Persian Gulf in the other.

It's the breathtaking cerulean waters of the Gulf of Oman that grace W Muscat, meanwhile. Move between the lively Qurum beachfront and the spa and beautiful outdoor WET and infinity pools, before exploring the city on a tour. Come evening, stroll along the boardwalk to Mutrah Fort and souk, before returning to the hotel for the chilled vibes of the Siddharta Lounge by Buddha Bar.

Published: October 07, 2024