(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Santas packing up his sleigh; are you readying your luggage for a quick festive stopover David Light recommends where you may head to
Banyan Tree Al Wadi Ras Al KhaimahOffering wildlife enthusiasts an exclusive desert experience within Banyan Tree Al Wadi’s nature reserve the resort has everything for those interested in conservation as well as breathtaking facilities in which to dine and relax. Top tip: try the Rainforest Experience spa.Call: 07 206 7777
The Ajman Palace Hotel’Tis the season to be jolly and it doesn’t get much jollier than a trip to Ajman’s premiere establishment. The Ajman Palace boasts some of the best rooms available in the UAE bang on the beach. They’ve decked the entire property fittingly for the season including the tallest Christmas tree in the Northern Emirates right in the lobby.
On the 25th tuck into a sumptuous buffet lunch at Encore Bistro. You will be spoilt for choice with a lavish spread of festive fare for Dhs160 per person before retiring to your pool-side majlis or superb room for the weekend.Call: 06 701 8888
Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel Abu DhabiWhether you’re with family or friends why not to treat them to the season’s best cuisine and a comfortable stay at the luxurious five-star hotel Enjoy a special festive rate of Dhs699 per double room per night and get a complimentary dinner for two at Taverna Restaurant and breakfast at Bathna Restaurant.Call: 02 497 5100
Le Gray Beirut LebanonFor those with perhaps a bit more time off but not wishing to venture too far Beirut is a wonderful city to spend Christmas. Its large Christian population does things properly going all out for the season. What better place to witness it all than right in the middle of town next to Beirut Souks and the world-famous Gemmayze
Le Gray Beirut will pick you up from the airport in a chauffeured limo and whisk you back to its fantastic property. Heartfelt hospitality outstanding dining experiences lavish accommodation l – Le Gray is perfectly poised to offer GCC guests the perfect getaway.Visit: www.legray.com
Le Meridien Al Aqah FujairahThe East Coast getaway has planned special activities for the whole family. Not only do you get to stay beneath the beautiful Hajar Mountains but you can also dine in style.
On Christmas Eve Views Brasserie will be hosting a Christmas Eve bubbly dinner priced at Dhs299 per person with the night’s entertainment being provided by the delightful Le Meridien choir. On Christmas Day it’s more of the same at lunch time. Call: 09 244 9000
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Abu Dhabi Bespoke packages culinary delights and uncompromising service are on offer at Abu Dhabi’s most captivating luxury address.
The idyllic resort is offering the traditions and warmth of the season on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The Mediterranean-influenced all day dining venue Oléa will feature a festive twist on The St. Regis Brunch while an exclusive experience awaits at signature restaurant 55&5th The Grill which will be offering a delectable festive menu with a pianist to entertain diners.Call: 02 498 8888
Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana Abu DhabiThe capital is known for many things but hospitality has to be top of the list. And you’ll receive a bucket load of welcomes and wishes at the Arjaan. Not only do they have carolling and their own fabulously lit tree but the property’s restaurants serve up festive cheer like no other. That’s before we get to the rooms. Large open airy spaces mean your entire family will not want to leave. Service is the name of the game here so make sure you take advantage of it. Call: 02 610 6666
Anantara Sir Bani Yas IslandFor the ultimate island getaway in the region lose yourself at Sir Bani Yas Island one of the UAE’s most treasured destinations.On Christmas Day the little ones can start the day in festive style with a cupcake decorating party hosted at the Kids club after enjoying a surprise visit from Santa Claus at the signature Christmas Day breakfast at The Palm restaurant.
With three restaurant outlets on the island serving festive fare guests can savour the tastes and flavours of the world Italy or South Africa with delicacies at The Palm Olio and Savannah Grill to satisfy their festive cravings. Olio at Al Yamm Villa Resort and Savannah Grill at Al Sahel Villa Resort will both be serving feasts on Christmas Eve from Dhs350 per person whilst guests can enjoy international cuisine at The Palm from Dhs300 per person for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Family friendly celebrations at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara start from Dhs1700 blissful beachfront seclusion at Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort from Dhs2125 and the romance of the Arabian Savannah at Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort from Dhs1955.Visit www.anantara.com.
Rixos Bab Al Bahar Ras Al KhaimahChristmas Eve at Rixos Bab Al Bahr will include a Christmas cocktail reception with live music followed with a Christmas dinner buffet and a very special ‘Havana jazz show ‘at the infamous entertainment square. The resort rates during this time will be starting from Dhs2500. Call: 07 202 0000
Desert Palm Resort DubaiOn the outskirts of the city visiting this resort leaves you feeling like you’ve left the country. Polo fields and trees a beautiful pool and terrace dining takes you out of the frenzy that is Dubai life.
With 38 modern guest suites and pool villas guests can choose from a range of different packages over the festive season starting from Dhs922 per room per night. From 12.30pm to 4pm on December 25 RARE restaurant’s renowned Friday brunch will be elevated to new festive heights. Featuring a live DJ and a visit from Father Christmas at 2pm you’ll be able to really enjoy it with bubbles for Dhs595.Call: 04 323 8888