As the star of the newly opened and much hyped Sir Bani Yas island, a former private retreat for the UAE’s founder Sheik Zayed, Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara has a lot to live up to. The island is natural, not one of the manmade ones they're so fond of in the UAE. Billed as an eco-destination, it offers diving, game drives through an Arabian wildlife park and other outdoorsy activities. But forget roughing it under the stars. The resort, just two hours from Abu Dhabi and three from Dubai, is full-on luxe.
Stepping into the hotel reception is like entering a royal sanctuary. A vast Arab-lantern chandelier hangs beneath a gold-leaf ceiling, but its grandness is tempered by comfortable sofas and chairs in the lounge and front terrace. The bedrooms and villas feature more golds and reds, but in soft, burnished tones to give a soothing feel. Unlike many hotels in the Middle East, the décor is one of laid-back elegance rather than OTT opulence.
The centrepiece of the resort is a free-form infinity pool. The royal villa and junior suites also have their own plunge pools, and the royal villa has the added bonus of a private butler who can organise romantic meals on the beach, spa treatments or just about anything else you might fancy.
The island is something of a work in progress, and while it's not exactly an eco-retreat yet, it's well on its way to be coming one.
Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara (+ 971 (0) 2801 5400, desertislands.anantara.com), doubles from £340, B&B, including all island activities. Sir Bani Yas, Desert Islands (desertislands.com), is currently accessible only to overnight visitors.
British Airways flies to Abu Dhabi from London Heathrow. Book a flight on ba.com now.
