Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah transports guests to the Maldives — without leaving the UAE. From the moment you arrive, a sweeping lakeside drive through quiet, green scenery sets the tone. The welcome is warm and immediate: cold towels and refreshing drinks from management and staff before you even check in.
A Resort Designed to Feel Like the Maldives
The resort's architecture blends modern design with Arabic influences — clean lines softened by regional detailing. It works beautifully. But the undisputed highlight of Anantara Mina Al Arab is its collection of overwater villas: the first of their kind in Ras Al Khaimah, and arguably in the entire UAE. These 20 standalone structures sit directly above the water, looking out over a protected mangrove ecosystem. Several include an infinity plunge pool.
Each villa integrates indoor and outdoor living seamlessly — large sun terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows, and beach-style interiors finished in natural tones. The overall effect closely mirrors what draws travellers to the Maldives: seclusion, water, and sky in every direction.
Sustainability at the Core
Anantara Mina Al Arab was purpose-built around environmental stewardship. The resort holds LEED Gold Certification and earned the Responsible RAK Certified Silver and Green Growth Certification — a rare triple in the region. Key sustainability features include:
- Solar panels for water heating - A greywater recycling system that irrigates the surrounding landscape - An in-house water bottling plant eliminating single-use plastics - EV charging stations throughout the property - Furniture and fittings made from sustainable wood and recycled materials
The mangroves surrounding the resort are home to sea turtles, migratory birds, and the occasional rare dugong. The resort works directly with Ras Al Khaimah's Environment Protection and Development Authority on active conservation efforts.
Dining, Water Sports, and Wellness
The resort's beachside restaurant offers dining with views across the Arabian Gulf. Water sports, kayaking through the mangrove channels, and beach activities are available for guests who want to stay active. Yoga sessions and a spa round out the wellness offering, and overwater villa guests receive a complimentary 60-minute massage on arrival.
Every villa is assigned a dedicated villa host who handles everything from restaurant bookings to private beach cabana reservations.
Rates and Recognition
Anantara Mina Al Arab opened in January 2024 with 174 rooms, suites, and villas. Room rates start at Dh1,700 per night including breakfast and VAT; overwater villas start at Dh7,000. In December 2024 the property was named World's Leading New Resort at the World Travel Awards — a recognition that reflects both the quality of the product and the speed at which it has established itself as a benchmark for UAE luxury hospitality.
For UAE residents and international visitors seeking a tropical escape without a long-haul flight, Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah makes a compelling case.
