Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa, Dubai

The Cranley Report

Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa

Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa, Dubai

Hotel Address

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa
(P.O. Box 7631)
Dubai
United Arab Emirates.

Cranley Rating

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

Photo 1 of 44. Click to enlarge

Hotel Summary

Category

Resort Hotel

Awards Won

2008
Conde Nast - Gold List
What’s On Award – Favourite Weekend Getaway.

2007
Best In Travel – Asia’s Best Spa Hotel, winner.
Conde Nast Traveller - Gold List for Africa, Middle East and Indian Ocean Islands.
Smart Travel Asia - Best Spa Hotel/Resort In Asia, eighth place.
Smart Travel Asia - Best Conference Hotel, fifteenth place.
Smart Travel Asia - Best Leisure Hotel/Resort, sixteenth place.

2006
World Hotel Award – Soul Experience.
Conde Nast Traveller - Gold List for Africa, Middle East and Indian Ocean Islands.

Hotel Opened	1999
Refurbishment	2008 Upgrade of 'timeless spa' and pool Full upgrade of each suite

Cranley Summary

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa occupies a small section of the 225 square kilometre Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve which is approximately one hours drive from Dubai. Modelled on the luxurious safari lodges in South Africa, this exclusive retreat offers a sanctuary to travellers and desert wildlife. Designed to resemble a Bedouin encampment it is surrounded by peaceful dunes and dramatic desert landscape with views reaching to the Hajar Mountain range. Each of the 42 secluded suites capture the spirit of Arabia with tented ceilings, handcrafted furnishings and antiques. The suites have modern amenities, generous sized bathrooms and private temperature controlled infinity pools surrounded by individual wooden decking areas where guests may choose to dine privately from the Al Diwaan restaurant's menu. Al Diwaan, situated in the main building and reached by a series of paths or by chauffeur driven golf buggies from the suites, offers relaxed informality. Meals are served either in the restaurant or on its alfresco veranda which overlooks a desert waterhole. In the evenings when an inclusive five course table d’hote dinner is served, the veranda is transformed into a magical setting with flickering candles and dancing torchlights. The 'timeless spa' and oasis style pool and gymnasium are discreetly concealed amidst the dunes near the main building and offer a full range of treatments, unisex saunas and steam rooms. Each guest is allocated a 'Field Guide' who will arrange complimentary on-site traditional Arabic pursuits and activities including desert walks, led by qualified conservationists who provide guests with a hands-on understanding of the delicate balance of the desert’s ecosystem, sunset desert camel treks, four-wheel-drive safaris, archery and sunrise horse back dune rides. Al Maha Desert Resort's facilities are not only aimed at the leisure guest, the Al Majlis Boardroom is situated in a dedicated conference building and is themed on an Arabian styled fortress. The state-of-the-art facilities are ideal for conferences and private functions whilst the whole resort with its on-site activities, are ideal for unusual team building events. Potential guests should note that children under 12 are not allowed and children over the age of 12 are charged as a full paying adult.

Hotel Location & Layout

Location Description

The Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa is set in the heart of a 225 square kilometre desert nature conservation reserve framed by the distant Hajar Mountains. This ecotourism resort offers guests a unique heritage desert experience with its wide open plains filled with indigenous flora and fauna and is refuge to endangered wildlife such as the Desert Lark and Arabian Oryx. Located off the Dubai-Al Ain highway (E66), the resort lies 65 km southeast of Dubai and is approximately a one hour drive from the city to the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa security gate. From here, transfers are complimentary to the resort which, although only a short distance, takes a further 10 minutes due to the speed limit within the reserve.

Airports
Distance	66 km
Airport Transfers	Approximately 1 hour in light traffic. Chargeable taxi and limousine service available. Transfers are complimentary from Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa security gate to the hotel.

Cities and Sights
Distance	65 km
City/Sight Transfers	Approximately 1 hour in light traffic. Chargeable taxi and limousine service available. Transfers are complimentary from Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa security gate to the hotel.

Layout Description

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa sits amidst the red and gold sand dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and stretches over a 1 km area from one end of the resort to the other. The resort has views to the distant Hajar Mountains on a clear day. Guests enter the two storey main building through large wooden doors. This leads into the main lobby area with its high carved wooden-beamed ceilings and marble and stone clad floors. Walking to the centre of the lobby lounge and to the left, guests check in with a dedicated Guest Relations Co-ordinator. On the opposite side, the resort's shop, Library and Business Centre are found. At the far end of the lounge, on the right hand side, several steps lead down to the Al Maha bar and its outside veranda which overlooks a desert waterhole. On the left of the lobby bar entrance is a door leading outside onto another terrace with steps leading down to Al Diwaan restaurant and several furnished terrace areas. The forty two intimate suites, spa and conference suite are individually arranged over the central part of the resort around the main building. Guests can either walk down paved paths or be transported by open-sided buggies to the suites and the surrounding facilities of the complex.

Lobby & Guest Relations

Open Hours	24 hours
Languages Spoken	English, Arabic, Afrikaans, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog and several other languages spoken.
Payment Methods	All major credit cards and cash accepted.
Foreign Exchange	All major currencies exchanged. There is a limit imposed by the hotel per transaction. Exchange rates are commissionable.
Taxis Arranged	Taxis should be booked in advance and can be arranged on request by the Guest Relations Co-ordinator.
Tours Arranged	A full range of tours and tailor made packages can be organised through the Guest Relations Co-ordinator to include: Abu Dhabi City Tours Al Ain City Tours Camel Riding Desert Safaris Dhow Tours Dinner Cruises Dubai City Tours Fishing Trips Hajar Mountains Hatta Village Liwa Full Day Safaris Night At The Races Oman Dhow Tour Sharjah and Ajman City tours Snorkelling or Scuba Diving

Guest Relations	Personal Guest Relations Co-ordinator. Personal Field Guide.
Concierge Services	Each guest at the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa is allocated a dedicated Guest Relations Co-ordinator and personal Field Guide offering a personalised service.
Medical Facilities	Staff are trained to administer first aid for minor incidents and trained to use the hotels own defibrillator. A wheelchair is available. A doctor is available 24 hours a day with a typical response time of within 60 minutes by car or 30 minutes by helicopter, according to the hotel.
Parking	Covered parking for 25 cars. Helicopter landing facilities. All cars have to be left undercover at the security gate. Transport is then provided to the main building of the resort. Presidential and Emirate Suite guests are able to come into the resort through a separate entrance with parking facilities outside the suites. For guests with special needs, car parking is allocated outside the main building of the hotel.

Cranley Comment

The lobby, with its cool stone-clad floors and natural light is at the centre of the main building. On entering the main building through large fortress style wooden doors, there is a Guest Relations desk to the left and just beyond are the ladies’ and men's majlis areas. The Gallery, a shop selling carpets and gifts and the library which has a selection of daily newspapers are to the right on entering the building. To the rear of the lobby are steps leading down to the Al Maha Bar and its veranda. Centrally, the lobby seating area with tables and comfortable chairs is below an Arabic styled atrium with many collectables, paintings and scabbards hung on the surrounding walls. The windows at the far end of the lobby have a door, which leads out to a terraced area with steps leading down to the Al Diwaan restaurant and deck with uninterrupted views out to the desert and the distant Hajar mountains.

Shops & Amenities

Description

The Gallery – antiques, carpets, gifts and personal items.
09:00 to 20:00, 7 days a week

Cranley Comment

The Gallery is the only shop in the resort, it supplies many of the objects of art, rugs and antiques which are on display throughout the resort and in the private suites which are also available for purchase. The shop, which is in the lobby area, sells a further selection of gifts, rugs, handcrafted furniture, Arabian artefacts, Islamic art and traditional khanjars (Omani knives). A range of jewellery, personal items, resort-branded goods including wallets, bathrobes and baseball caps and 'timeless spa' face and body treatment products are also sold. The Gallery is also able to take care of worldwide shipping arrangements for products bought at the resort.

Rooms, Suites & Villas

Number of Floors	1
Total Rooms	42
Total Staff	215
Staff per Room	5.1

Check-in Time	14:00
Check-out Time	12:00
Late Checkout	Subject to availability.
Smoking Rooms	42 smoking suites available.
Room Service	05:00 to 11:00 Breakfast 10:00 to 23:00 Lunch and Dinner 'Private Deck Dining' – subject to availability and should be booked before 15:00 hours. A service charge is levied for this service.
Laundry Service	A next day, same day and express dry cleaning and laundry service is available. Laundry; handed in before 12:00 will be returned in the evening. Dry Cleaning; handed in before 09:00 will be returned the following day. Pressing; is available. Express Service; incurs an extra charge.
Unique Features	Personal Guest Relations Co-ordinator. Personal Field Guide. Each suite with private infinity pool overlooking Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Hand crafted furniture. Persian rugs, antiques and artefacts in each suite. Desert spa location.

Cranley Comment

The Bedouin-inspired all suite accommodation is a sanctuary amid the desert dunes and overlooks the Hajar Mountains in the far distance. Each of the 42 suites are reached by golf buggy or by foot paths, they are exceptionally private, standing in their own space with a large furnished wooden veranda and private, temperature controlled pool. Some suites, depending on location within the resort, although still private may not have the same degree of privacy as others or have direct frontage to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and beyond. The suites are decorated in earthy shades with a mix of pale reds and blues and have Bedouin style tented ceilings, hand crafted furniture, traditional textiles, authentic Arabian and Bedouin ornaments and generous sized bathrooms. Light is abundant in all the suites and all have floor-to-ceiling windows with doors leading out to the tranquil wooden veranda surrounding the suite and the private infinity swimming pool area. Deck dining is available by prior arrangement.

Type of Room, Views & Facilities

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Bedouin Suites	37	Desert	Traditional key locking system Security bolt (solid and large) Entrance hall Individually controlled air-conditioning Dedicated work space/desk Wireless telephone DDI line Voice mail WiFi (complimentary) High speed internet access (complimentary) 3 pin square British sockets 3 pin small round sockets Television International Satellite TV Movie channels DVD player iPod docking station Radio/alarm Floor to ceiling windows Dimmer switches All lights can be controlled from bed side Triple closet Dressing area Dressing table Full length mirror Large safe suitable for laptop Safety deposit boxes at Reception Mini-bar Filter coffee and tea making facilities Tea and coffee making facilities Complimentary (national) daily newspapers International newspapers printed on request Turndown service Down duvet Hyper allergenic pillows Pillow menu Chaise longue En-suite bathroom Double vanity basin unit Separate toilet closet Bidet King size bath tub with hand held shower Separate rain shower Bathrobes Slippers Shaving/make up mirror Shaving point Laundry basket Hairdryer Private infinity pool - 5 x 4 x 1.3 metres Private wooden deck/veranda Veranda sun loungers, table, chairs and umbrella Handcrafted furnishings Persian rugs, antiques and artefacts Binoculars Easel, paper and pastels for drawing Luxury Bvlgari toiletries	2 adults	75

Cranley Comment

Each Bedouin Suite stands in its own space with a large surrounding wooden veranda, a private temperature controlled infinity pool and offers the utmost in tranquillity and privacy. There are 29 king size and 8 twin Bedouin Suites. The entrance hallway leads through to a spacious light and airy bedroom with a comfortable lounge area. All the suites have a tented roof, cool marble floors decorated with richly coloured Persian rugs, floor-to-ceiling windows and doors leading out to the wooden veranda and private pool. The suites are decorated in pastel and earthy shades and are adorned with hand crafted wooden furnishings and antiques. Each have custom-made king size or twin beds, twin chaise longue chairs and low level coffee table, a dedicated desk with data ports, traditional textiles and authentic Arabian and Bedouin ornaments and artist easel. From the veranda there are unhindered views across the desert to the distant Hajar Mountains. The spacious en-suite tiled bathroom features further artworks, natural light, a separate walk-in rain shower, king-size bath, double vanity basin area and luxury Bvlgari toiletries.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Royal Suites	2	Desert	As for the Bedouin Suites with the added benefit of: Separate living area Master en-suite bedroom Additional en-suite twin bedroom Additional bedroom televisions Royal Suite (# 2) Private infinity pool - 13.5 x 7 x 1.3 metres Royal Suite (# 30) Private infinity pool - 7 x 5 x 1.3 metres	4 adults	175

Cranley Comment

Royal Suites have two bedrooms, one king and one twin, with en-suite bathrooms, which are decorated and furnished in the same way as the Bedouin Suites with tented ceilings, hand crafted wood furnishings and antiques. The 2 Royal Suites have a separate lounge area located between the two bedrooms which has comfortable sofas and chairs, a coffee table, wooden furnishings, television, desk with data ports and chairs. Floor-to-ceiling windows have doors leading from the bedrooms and living room out to the furnished wooden veranda surrounding the entire suite and a private infinity swimming pool. The spacious en-suite tiled bathroom features further artworks, natural light, a separate walk-in rain shower, king-size bath, double vanity basin area and luxury Bvlgari toiletries.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Emirate Suite	2	Desert	As for the Royal Suites with the added benefit of: Entrance courtyard Large fully equipped kitchen with: American fridge freezer Dishwasher Cooker Dining table with 6 chairs Plasma televisions and DVD’s in bedrooms Staff en-suite room 2 car canopied parking space Emirates Suite (# 1) Private infinity pool - 12 x 5 x 1.3 metres Emirates Suite (# 2) Private infinity pool - 14 x 6 x 1.3 metres	4 adults	375

Cranley Comment

The entrance to each Emirate Suite is through a private courtyard with the cool, soothing sound of a water feature. Leading from this is the main suite. Located off the courtyard is staff accommodation, an en-suite bedroom which will sleep two. This is available for members of staff accompanying guests. Next to the staff bedroom is a fully equipped kitchen which allows for one of the resort's chefs to prepare a meal for private dining or functions held in the suite. On entering the main suite, there is a spacious dining area with a large table and six chairs. Steps lead down to a light and airy lounge which is decorated in cool pastel shades with a wooden ceiling and marble floors and furnished with sofas and chairs in blue and cream shades. Floor-to-ceiling windows have doors leading out to the swimming pool and furnished wooden deck area. The spacious Emirate Suites have two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms which are decorated and furnished in a similar way to the bedrooms in the Bedouin and Royal Suites, these are situated to each side of the living area. The first bedroom has a king-size bed and the second has twin beds. All the rooms are furnished and decorated to a very high standard and all with the latest up-to-date modern amenities. The spacious en-suite tiled bathrooms feature further artworks, natural light, a separate walk-in rain shower, king-size bath, double vanity basin area and luxury Bvlgari toiletries.

Type	No.	View	Facilities	Max. Occupancy	Size m2
Presidential Suite	1	Desert	As for the Emirates Suites with the added benefit of: Larger entrance garden/courtyard with water feature Guest cloakroom Plasma television Bose sound system Separate dining room Dining table with 10 chairs Master bedroom en-suite bathroom Dressing room 2 Twin guest rooms 3 car canopied parking space Built in BBQ on veranda Private infinity pool - 11 x 9 x 1.3 metres	6 adults	530

Cranley Comment

The Presidential Suite sits in seclusion with panoramic views over the desert and distant Hajar Mountains. The suite is approached through a private courtyard area. Located off the courtyard is staff accommodation, an en-suite bedroom which will sleep two. This is available for guests' members of staff. Next to the staff bedroom is a fully equipped kitchen which allows for one of the resort's chefs to prepare a meal for private dining or functions held in the suite. On entering the Presidential Suite there is a long wide passageway with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the courtyard seating area. This leads into a dining room decorated with marble floors, a carved wooden ceiling and a large dining table with ten chairs. One side of the room has arabesque carved wooden screens decorating the walls and looking through to the lounge area. Steps lead down to the spacious tented lounge which is furnished with comfortable sofas and chairs in cool white and light coloured fabrics. The lounge has floor-to-ceiling windows with doors leading out onto the large terrace and pool area. Leading off the lounge area, the suite has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The bedrooms are all decorated in a similar style to the other suite bedrooms and all the bedrooms have doors leading out to the terrace and pool areas. The master bedroom has a king-size bed, a dressing room and large en-suite bathroom. The two other bedrooms have twin beds and share a bathroom. Each of the spacious tiled bathrooms feature further artworks, separate walk-in rain shower, king-size bath, double vanity basin area and luxury Bvlgari toiletries.

Restaurants & Cafés

Number of Restaurants

Restaurant Comments

Despite the small intimate size of Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, guests can enjoy a variety of locations from which to dine. Al Diwaan restaurant is decorated in keeping with the resort with many objects of art, it also has a large alfresco deck with views over the desert waterhole, it is the only restaurant within the hotel and is situated in the main building. Al Diwaan restaurant offers a variety of culinary choices ranging from Middle Eastern to Mediterranean. During the day a certain amount of informality is permissible while in the evening when the restaurant and deck transforms into a magical setting with flickering candles and dancing fire torches, gentlemen are requested to wear a collared shirt or traditional dress. The Al Maha Bar and veranda serves informal snacks and meals and the 'timeless spa' has a covered area next to the pool where salads and light bites may also be enjoyed. Intimate private suite deck dining is subject to availability and does require booking before 15:00. Each day tea and coffee is served in the Library, prior to the activities held in the mornings between 06:00 to 08:00 and in the afternoon from 13:30 to 17:15. 'Dune Theme' evenings are arranged seasonally, guests are transported across the desert to an authentically-styled Bedouin encampment in the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa reserve. A banquet of long-established Middle Eastern dishes of seafood and meat are prepared over charcoal fires, traditional Arabic music and belly dancers add to the enchanting evening's atmosphere. For an evening with a distinct difference the hotel offers a basket of picnic items and a selection of beverages. Set amongst the dunes, your picnic-site, comfortably appointed with carpets and cushions and lit by torches, is a perfect spot from which to absorb the tranquillity of the desert. A personal Field Guide drives guests to the site and collects them at a chosen time.

Al Diwaan

Restaurant Type	Middle Eastern/International
Restaurant Capacity	117 total (of which 72 are inside and 45 are on the decked terrace)
Opening Times	Breakfast 07:00 to 10:00 Lunch 13:00 to 14:30 Dinner 19:30 to 22:00
Dress Codes	Casual for breakfast and lunch. Smart Casual for dinner. Gentlemen are requested to wear a shirt with collar, trousers and closed shoes or national dress. Jackets are not required.

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Designated smoking areas on the terrace only.
Children’s Facilities	Children under the age of twelve are not permitted in the resort.
Breakfast Options	American Continental English Buffet A la carte

Cranley Comment

Al Diwaan restaurant meaning "a gathering", is located on the ground floor of the main building. This is the only restaurant in the resort and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The elegant restaurant is decorated with sand coloured walls and pillars throughout with high wooden ceilings. At the far end of the dining room is a small private room seating twelve people which is used for special events such as a private dinner or party, a larger private room Al Diwaan II is available for groups of up to 30. During the day a relaxed buffet or A la carte breakfast and lunch is served, guests may either dine in the restaurant or on the adjoining decked veranda which has views over the open landscape, with some shade being offered under tented awnings. In the evenings the Al Diwaan deck is transformed and lit by flickering torchlight’s and echoes the peaceful un-spoilt setting of the desert beyond. Guests can choose from a changing five course table d'hote menu featuring Middle Eastern and International fare, some of the dishes include modern Arabic choices for example Red Snapper on Tomato Ragout with Muluchilye Tartlets, topped with Tomato and Fennel Salad. For special occasions guests may develop their own menu with the restaurant's chefs.

Bars

Number of Bars

Al Maha Bar

Bar Type	Arabian Cocktail Bar
Bar Capacity	30 total (of which 20 are inside and 10 are on the decked veranda)
Opening Times	12:00 until late
Dress Codes	Casual

Air-Conditioning	Yes
Smoking Policy	Smoking allowed Shisha is served on the veranda only.
Admissions Policy	Children under the age of twelve are not permitted in the resort.

Cranley Comment

The Al Maha Bar and veranda is located in the main building towards the far end of the lobby. Steps lead down to a small comfortable seating lounge decorated with pictures of wildlife and antiques. There is cosy seating with leather chairs and tables along one side and a traditional bar with high stools along the other. A door leads out onto a shaded veranda which extends along two sides of the building and is furnished with wooden tables and cushioned chairs. Stepping onto the terrace during the early evening allows guests to capture the day's final glimpse of the sun and is an ideal place to enjoy exotic sundowners and watch the animals at the waterhole. Light meals and bar snacks are available.

Business & Event Facilities

Wireless Internet

WiFi is available throughout the resort and is complimentary.

In-Room Services

High speed internet connection (complimentary)
WiFi (complimentary)
Dedicated desk and chair
Wireless DDL telephone

Business Centre

The Business Centre is situated next to the Library off the lobby area of the hotel. It is available to guests 24 hours a day and is furnished in an informal yet practical manner with wide desks and a range of office equipment. The display cabinet has a selection of Arabic antiques, and there is a medley of artworks upon the walls, painted by past guests. Facilities include:

3 computer workstations with internet connections
Meeting rooms
Conference rooms
Audio facilities
Printer colour / black and white
Fax
Lap top hire
Typing
Binding
Scanner
Technical Concierge

Meetings & Events

Venue	Size (m²)	Dimensions L x W x H (metres)
Al Majlis Pre-Function Room	139	16.3 x 8.5 x 7.0	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
Al Majlis Boardroom	278	20.0 x 13.5 x 7.0	180	-	134	90	50	-	-
Al Majlis Hall 1	166	11.5 x 14.2 x 7.0	100	-	80	42	32	-	-
Al Majlis Hall 2	57	8.1 x 7.1 x 7.0	50	-	40	10	14	12	-
Al Majlis Hall 3	57	8.1 x 7.1 x 7.0	50	-	40	10	14	12	-

The Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa has a dedicated conference suite which is suitable for banquets, conferences, lectures, business meetings, exhibitions, team building events and weddings.

AL MAJLIS CONFERENCE SUITE (independent building)

Al Majlis:
The Al Majiis Boardroom and Halls are situated in a dedicated building opposite the main hotel and is reached by a short pathway. The building has an entrance courtyard of 50² metres in size, no natural light is available within the building. On entering Al Majlis there is a gallery which overlooks the pre function area below which is decorated in a classical Arabic style. Al Majlis Boardroom leads off to the left of this and can be separated into three smaller event spaces – Hall 1, 2 and 3. There are ladies’ and gents’ facilities within the same building.

Facilities and equipment for the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa business and conference rooms include:

High speed internet connection, modem lines, WiFi, air conditioning, telephone points, video conferencing, fully integrated state of the art audio visual equipment controlled from a projection suite, LCD projectors, television monitors, DVD player, VCR, laser disc, laser pointer, flip chart and markers, whiteboard, lectern, wireless microphone, stage/podium, dance floor, stage lights, power sockets, tungsten/fluorescent/halogen lighting, controls in room.

Cranley Comment

The Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa's conferencing facility, Al Majlis Boardroom is located in a separate building with an Arabic fortress style within close proximity to the main building. On entering, stairs lead down to the pre-function area which can be used in conjunction with the Al Majlis Boardroom. The Boardroom is well equipped and has three permanent projectors to one end, an audio visual room and a projection suite. Al Majlis Boardroom can be separated into three smaller event spaces two of which lead out to a second enclosed courtyard. Al Diwaan II in the main building is also available as a private dining room for groups of 30 people. The unique setting of Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa makes this an ideal setting for private receptions, weddings and brain storming! With its unusual variety of on-site activities, it is also an ideal venue for corporate team building events.

Children’s Facilities & Clubs

Restaurant Facilities

See Restaurants

Cranley Comment

Children under the age of twelve are not allowed at the resort. Children over the age of twelve have to be booked in an additional room at the full adult rate.

Entertainment

Daytime Activities

Library

The Library is located off the main lobby area, it is traditionally furnished with high back chairs, solid oak tables and original artworks including those of previous guests. A selection of National and International daily newspapers and chess, backgammon and playing cards are available. Tea and coffee is served from here before the early morning activities.

On-site activities

Guests are entitled to two on-site activities per stay, if weather conditions permit.

Falconry – 06:00 hours
Witness the traditional Arabic art of Falconry in the dunes.

Nature Walk – 06:00 hours
Experience the diversity of life in the desert with a professional guide.

Desert Drive – 08:00 hours
4x4 scenic drive in the desert dunes!

Wildlife Drive – 16:15 hours
Spot Arabian Oryx (Al Maha) and other indigenous wildlife and flora.

Horse Riding - 06:00 to 17:30 flexible times (previous riding experience necessary).
Dune riding during the day.

Camel Trek – 17:30 hours
Ride out in the desert for sundowners and refreshments and return after the sun has set.

Sundowners - 17:45 hours
Drive out to a vantage point in the desert to toast the sunset.

Archery – flexible times
Test your skills at this age-old sport.

Sunrise Stretch and Yoga Class 07:30 to 08:30
Held at the Timeless Spa Pool (meet at the spa).

Guests wishing to participate in the activities should book through their Field Guide and meet in the lobby 15 minutes prior to departure time.

Please note all activity timings are subject to change depending of the season and weather conditions.

Off-site activities

Off-site activities can be arranged through Guest Relations Co-ordinators, all of which are chargeable.

Mountain Safari
Hatta Excursions
Al Ain Excursions
Fossil Rock and Camel Rock

Guests wishing to participate in the off-site activities should book through their Guest Relations Co-ordinator.

Cranley Comment

Guests are entitled to two on-site activities per stay, if weather conditions permit, which should be arranged through their personal Field Guide. Departure for excursions is from the lobby, tea and coffee is served in the quiet Library prior to the activities. To experience the beauty and calm of the desert, the resort has sixteen camels and sixteen horses and offers guided rides across the dunes, in the early evening. The highlight of this experience is sundowners before heading back to the resort. An alternative tranquil start to the day is a horse ride in the desert at sunrise. Four wheel drive Dune Safaris transport guests to more isolated parts of the Al Maha reserve, the off-road driving experience offers guests the opportunity to spot some of the species within the resort while quickly navigating the dunes in rugged vehicles! By contrast, guided nature walks and drives are offered by the experienced Field Guides, all of whom are dedicated conservationists and have a vast knowledge of the wildlife, flora and fauna within the resort. Falcon displays are held in the desert and offer a close up experience of these magnificent birds of pray. For the novice or the experienced there is a specially designated archery area within the Al Maha reserve, expert tuition is provided in the use of a traditional recurved bow.

Off-site activities can be arranged through Guest Relations Co-ordinators, all of which are chargeable. A mountain safari takes guests to the jagged peaks of the Hajar Mountains with its numerous wadis (dry river beds) and ends with a lunch in a palm-fringed enclave deep in the wadi. Hatta excursions take guests to a two-hundred year old heritage village located at the foot of the Hajar range with its traditional falaj irrigation system and the remains of an old fortress. Two favourite off-road destinations in the desert between Hatta and Dubai are Fossil Rock - named after the marine life fossils found there - and Camel Rock. Sand-skiing and quad bike riding are both available in the large red dunes off the Dubai-Hatta Road, forty minutes from the Resort. Al Ain excursions take guests to the "garden city" with its picturesque fortress museum and ancient burial tombs.

Evening Activities

Dune Dinner

Seasonally, Dune Dinners are held in an authentically-styled Bedouin encampment which is reached by 4x4. These evenings feature traditional seafood and meat dishes which are cooked over charcoal fires whilst guests enjoy customary Arabic entertainment.

Desert Picnics

Tranquil private Desert Picnics are offered in the evenings. Field Guides drive guests across the dunes to designated picnic spots with traditional Arabic seating and flickering torches where guests may enjoy specially prepared hampers, before being collected at a designated time.

Cranley Comment

Sundowners at the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa can be enjoyed by reaching a solitary vantage point by either a camel trek, on horse back or 4x4 vehicles, allowing guests the chance to encounter the unique solitude and tranquillity of the dunes under the supervision of a Field Guide. For a unique experience 'Desert Picnics' can be arranged under the stars at a private spot complete with hampers and champagne, Arabian cushions and flickering torch lights. Personal Field Guides will return at a designated time to return guests to their suites. Seasonally, guests can experience a traditional Dune Dinner under the Arabian Stars, where they relax in a comfortable Bedouin encampment and dine on grilled meats, fresh salads, Arab sweets and selected beverages. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the aromatic shisha, or have their hands painted with intricate henna designs, while being entertained by a belly dancer accompanied by Arabian music.

Beaches

Jumeirah Beach Park

Location	75 kilometres.
Description	Jumeirah Beach Park is a public beach open from 8:00 to 23:00. Visitors must pay a small charge to enter the beach area and sun loungers and parasols are available for hire. Visitors to the Jumeirah Beach Park should note that one day per week is designated as 'Ladies Only' day and they should check before visiting which day it is.
Private/Public	Public
Size/Frontage	The beach has a water frontage of about four hundred metres and is approximately twenty metres wide.

Facilities	Facilities include showers, toilets, snack bar, sun loungers and parasols for hire, a children’s adventure playground and a grass area with barbeques and straw parasols.
Safety	Lifeguards on duty.
Parking	There is a small charge to bring your car into the park or there is complimentary car parking available nearby.

Cranley Comment

The Jumeirah Beach Park is a public beach with a small charge for entry. The beach park has a large beach with lifeguards, sun lounger and parasol hire, toilet facilities and a snack bar for cold drinks and fast food refreshments. There is a grassed area and an area planted with trees, where barbeques are available for public use. There are football goals and beach volleyball facilities on the beach in addition to an adventure type playground to keep younger children entertained.

Pools

Timeless Spa Pool

Opening Times	07:00 to 20:00
Temperature	Controlled to approximately 28 degrees celsius.
Depths	1.5 metres constant depth
Size	Irregular shape approx 14 x 16 metres.

Facilities	Wooden loungers, chairs and umbrellas Large undercover seating area with sofas and tables Outside showers Ladies' and men's changing rooms Mixed Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room in the 'timeless spa' 'timeless spa 'menu
Safety	No lifeguard on duty.

Cranley Comment

The irregular shaped infinity swimming pool is located outside the 'timeless spa' building, the paved pool terrace is surrounded by rock features and palm trees. There are ample wooden sun loungers, umbrellas and a large undercover seating area with sofas and tables. Light meals and salads are available between 10:00 and 19:00, and the 'timeless spa' "breakfast in a glass" specials are available throughout the day including a selection of nutritious and healthy dishes and desserts as well as a selection of smoothies and fresh fruit juices. In the evening at 17:30, the colourful camel caravan leaves from the grassed area between the far side of the pool and the edge of the desert with a backdrop of the expansive dunes within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and the distant Hajar Mountains.

Private Infinity Pools

Opening Times	24 hours
Temperature	Temperature is controlled at 29 degrees celsius as standard, this can be individually controlled (up or down) with three hours notice.
Depths	Pool Sizes: Bedouin Suites (each) - 5 x 4 x 1.3 metres constant depth Royal Suite (2) - 13.5 x 7 x 1.3 metres constant depth Royal Suite (30) - 7 x 5 x 1.3 metres constant depth Emirates Suite (1) - 12 x 5 x 1.3 metres constant depth Emirates Suite (2) - 14 x 6 x 1.3 metres constant depth Presidential Suite - 11 x 9 x 1.3 metres constant depth
Size	As Above

Facilities

Private suite pool deck
Wooden table and chairs
Wooden sunbeds
Canopied shade awning

Cranley Comment

Each suite at the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa has its own private infinity pool and decking area which leads directly from the living areas of the guest accommodation. These infinity pool have uninterrupted views of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and offer a perfect retreat with privacy, tranquillity and sanctuary from the outside world. The pools vary in size and have steps for entry, the temperature can be controlled to guest's individual requirements with 3 hours notice. The private decking areas are partially shaded and have tables and chairs for alfresco dining as well as sun-beds.

Sports & Gym

Gym & Health Club

Opening Times	07:00 to 20:00
Description	Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa gym facilities include: 2 Treadmills 1 Elyptical Trainer 1 Seated Bike 1 Rowing Machine 1 Calf Machine 1 Multi Tower Fit 3 includes: Shoulder Press Incline Press Bench Press Lat Pulldown Low Row Biceps Curl Triceps Extension Leg Curl 1 Free Weight Bench Free Weights and Dumbbells Equipment Induction Nutrition Consultation Stretch and Yoga classes Yoga and Pilates videos 2 Televisions Spa massage / treatment rooms Jacuzzi Changing room Sauna Steam room Plunge pool Swimming pool of 14 metres x 16 metres x 1.5 metres with temperature kept at 28º celsius.
Size	9 x 7 metres

Cranley Comment

The 63² metres gym is located in the spa area and has floor-to-ceiling windows to two sides looking out over the swimming pool and surrounding desert areas. It is equipped with 'Life Fitness' machines and is a relatively spacious room with wooden floors. The gym is supervised and there is one satellite plasma television screen on the wall, energy drinks, juices and lemon water are available from the gym's small juice bar.

Land Sport

Description

Horse Riding - 06:00 to 17:30 flexible times (previous riding experience necessary)
Dune riding during the day.

Archery – flexible times
Test your skills at this age-old sport.

Sunrise Stretch and Yoga Class 07:30 to 08:30
Held at the 'timeless spa' Pool (meet at the spa)

Guests wishing to participate in the activities should book through their Field Guide and meet in the lobby 15 minutes prior to departure time.

Cranley Comment

To experience the beauty and calm of the desert, the resort has 16 horses available for experienced riders and offers complimentary guided rides across the dunes, or start the day with a tranquil horse ride in the desert at sunrise. For the novice or the experienced there is a specially designated archery area within the Al Maha reserve, expert complimentary tuition is provided in the use of a traditional recurved bow. Yoga and Stretch classes are an uplifting way to start the day, these classes are held around the pool surrounds at the 'timeless spa' with views over the natural splendour of the desert landscape.

Golf

Arabian Ranches Golf Club

Description

Arabian Ranches golf course is a new Ian Baker-Finch/Nicklaus Design world-class desert course and is the region's first desert-style facility capable of hosting international tournaments. It opened in 2004 at the Arabian Ranches housing development and is complete with a floodlit driving range and practice areas. It is the first true desert course in the city. With no water hazards to face, players tackle the elements and one enormous twisting bunker - the desert itself - on a sprawling course cultivated from the desert topography. The spectacular desert course is an unforgettable golfing experience.

Location	60 kms
Holes	18
Length/Par	7,698 Yards, Par 72

Facilities

Floodlit driving range, teaching academy and dining facilities.
Par 3 under construction due to open October 2008.

Emirates Golf Club

Description

This was the first grass course in the Gulf region when it opened in 1988. The club features two championship courses; the Majlis and the Wadi. The Majlis was the original course and was designed by Florida based designer Karl Litten. The Wadi opened in 1996 and was re-designed in 2007 by Nick Faldo. Despite a number of new courses, it still ranks as one of the best in Dubai. It has hosted the Dubai Desert Classic fifteen times for the last six years in succession.

Location	80 kms
Holes	Majlis 18, Wadi 18
Length/Par	Majlis: 7,185 Yards par 72 sss 74 , Wadi: 7,263 Yards par 72 sss 74

Facilities

Teaching academy, two driving ranges (one of which is floodlit), pitching and chipping areas, fairway and greenside practice bunkers. Several bars and restaurants.

Spa

Name of Spa	'timeless spa'
Opening Times	07:00 to 20:00

Facilities

Timeless Body Treatments:

Timeless Signature Four-Hands Body Treatment - 90 minutes
Timeless Signature Body Treatment - 90 minutes
Hydrating Body Treatment - 90 minutes
Intensive Firming Body Treatment - 90 minutes
Marine Contouring Body Wrap - 80 minutes
Marine Detoxifying Body Wrap - 80 minutes
Ancient Rasoul Ritual - 60 minutes
After Sun Soother - 60 minutes
Energy Reviver - 60 minutes
Organic Body Exfoliation - 45 minutes.

Timeless Massages:

Algae Detox Massage Therapy - 90 minutes
Desert Hot Stone Massage - 60 minutes and 90 minutes
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage - 60 minutes and 90 minutes
Speciality Massage - 60 minutes and 90 minutes
Deep Tissue Sports Therapy Massage - 60 minutes
De-stress Back Massage with Reflexology - 90 minutes
Reflexology - 60 minutes
Swedish Massage – 60 and 90 minutes
Mother-to-be Massage – 60 minutes
De-stress Back Massage - 45 minutes

Bath & Body Rituals:

Mineral Mud Therapy - 90 minutes
Hydrating Massage Therapy - 90 minutes
Aroma Hydrotherapy Bath - 30 minutes
Serenity Bath – 30 minutes

Timeless Facials:

Sea Creation Facial - 90 minutes
High Skin Refiner Facial - 90 minutes
Thermal Infusing Facial - 75 minutes
Refreshing Aroma Facial – 60 minutes
Marine Mineral Facial - 60 minutes
“Timeless” Al Maha Frankincense Facial - 60 minutes
Sensitive Skin Facial – for the highly sensitive - 60 minutes
Men’s Facial - 60 minutes
Eye Treatment - 45 minutes.
Waxing and Eye-lash tinting available on request.

Timeless Hands & Feet:

Regenerative Hand Therapy – 30 minutes
Regenerative Hand Therapy and Spa Manicure - 60 minutes
Refreshing Foot Therapy - 30 minutes.
Refreshing Foot Therapy and Spa Pedicure - 60 minutes

Spa Therapy Packages:
Rejuvenate – 120 minutes
Jet Lag Recovery – 120 minutes

Outdoor swimming pool
Fully equipped gym
Outdoor covered lounge area
Food menu
Two single massage rooms for private treatments
Three double massage rooms for couples' treatments
Hydrotherapy and rasoul room
Mixed sauna and steam rooms
Indoor warm Jacuzzi
Ice-cold plunge pool

Cranley Comment

The 836² metres 'timeless spa' is located to the right of the main building and is concealed at the foot of a dune by trees and overlooks the resort's oasis-style pool, water feature and surrounding plant life and palm trees. The intimate yet spacious spa has two single and three double treatment rooms, each providing private access to the Rasoul and hydro-therapy rooms. There is also a spa kitchen, where healthy meals including the 'timeless spa' Breakfast In A Glass and a selection of nutritious and healthy dishes and desserts are available as well as a selection of smoothies and fresh fruit juices. More substantial meals may also be taken on the spacious pool terrace which has views of the Conservation Reserve and Hajar Mountain range beyond. The large marbled relaxation room has a soothing central fountain and windows with shutters that filter the outside light. A unisex sauna, steam room, indoor Jacuzzi with views of the garden, and plunge pool are also available. The gymnasium is also situated within the same building. The 'timeless spas' impressive array of relaxation and beauty therapies feature a "Timeless" range of products made from Arabic dates and frankincense.

Special Needs

Communal Areas

Special arrangements for parking are made for guests with special needs, so that their cars can be parked directly outside the main building of the hotel and not at the resorts entrance gate. The resort facilities are connected by a series of paved paths, guests can be transported by golf buggies to and from each suite, the restaurant and spa, and to the front door of the lobby in the main building. Access into the lobby area although through large wooden front doors with a "step over" scenario, can be opened out and a temporary ramp is put in place. Most of the lobby area has good access apart from the Al Maha bar which has three wide steps leading down to it. From the lobby lounge area, access to the Al Diwaan restaurant is down a flight of stairs, however there is paved and buggy access from the outside area to the restaurant. Some of the spa facilities would be difficult for wheelchair users. The Al Majlis conference facilities have a ramp to one side giving access to the meeting rooms.

Rooms & Bathrooms

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa has one specially adapted twin Bedouin Suite. The suite is close to the main building, although guests can be transported around the resort by one of the many golf carts. At the entrance to the suite there is a ramp and the generous bathroom has been modified to include wider door access and grab rails within the shower. The private pool has steps to entry and grab rails on the side. A wireless telephone connects directly to the main building and Guest Relations. No other special equipment or adaptations are in place.

Restaurants & Catering

Al Diwaan can be reached by either a flight of steps from the lobby or by a paved path with buggy access. Tables and chairs within the restaurant and on the decked area are free standing. The menu changes daily and offers organic choices, dishes with alcohol or pork content are marked. Guests with special dietary requirements, sodium, gluten or sugar etc. may develop their own menu with the restaurant's chefs.

Recreation Facilities

Recreation facilities focus around the desert and reserve. Activities include; falconry, nature walks, desert drives and archery. Some of the activities involve trips into the desert in 4x4’s, on horseback or by camel. While the pool at the 'timeless spa' is accessible some of the facilities at the spa would be difficult to navigate in a wheelchair.

Staff Assistance

Staff are trained in first aid and the use of the resorts own defibrillator. A wheelchair is available if needed. Field Guides and Guest Relations Co-ordinators are extremely helpful and given the location of the resort are acutely aware of emergency procedures. Although not trained in certain aspects of special care, all staff are on hand to give assistance where appropriate.

Cranley Comment

Excluding some of the desert activities, this tranquil location is well suited to artists and writers. Most of the facilities can be accessed by a series of paved paths, some with slopes, which are also suitable for transportation by the resort's open sided golf buggies. Al Maha bar and the two Majlis areas off the lobby have three steps to entry. Some areas of the 'timeless spa' may be challenging for wheelchair users whilst the Al Majlis conference facilities have a long ramp internally, giving access to the boardrooms. The Bedouin Suite has been adapted to include a ramp at the entrance and wider doors. Staff are helpful and friendly and able to offer some assistance if required.

Environment

Measures

Recycling
Energy Saving
Community Service
Environmental Audits
Wildlife Protection
Water Saving
Alternative Energy

Cranley Comment

Set within the 225 square kilometre Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa is key to developing and planning an extensive wildlife reintroduction program in the reserve and maintaining other key components of the ecosystem, from plant life to protecting one of the last, and largest subterranean underground water supplies in Dubai. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa management work with a legally responsible body to help protect the future of DDCR. At first glance guests may think that to offer such luxury in this unique resort and location must involve a considerable amount of waste. Water is obtained from boreholes, waste water is clarified via an on-site effluent plant which partially clarifies waste water to make it suitable for irrigation purposes. Stationery within the hotel is made from recycled paper, a full recycling program of waste is in place including the recycling of cooking oils. All the hotels golf buggies which are used around the resort are electrically powered reducing carbon emissions. The swimming pools use a Salt Electrolysis system reducing the amount of chlorine. The resort does not allow ‘day visitors’ which controls the amount of safari groups and excursions, further protecting wildlife, some of which are conducted on camel or horse back to reduce carbon omissions. Extensive planting in 1999 of 6,200 indigenous trees, grasses and shrubs, was done to support species that were originally found in this region but had been largely wiped out by overgrazing and other human activities. These plants were supported by continuous irrigation which is now being phased out as the plants have now established themselves, providing food and shelter for the wide variety of animals ranging from gazelles to hedgehogs.

Home I Back | Cranley reference: 100175 | Quick link: http://www.cranley.com/?100175