Burj Al Arab, Dubai UAE
In 1993, architect Tom Wright of WS Atkins took on the challenge of creating a groundbreaking superstructure - a unique sail-shaped building on a man-made island some 280m offshore, linked to the mainland by a slender, gently curving causeway.
Five years on, the Burj Al Arab officially opened its doors on 1 December 1999. Designed in the shaped of a billowing Arabian dhow sail, the facade represented an astonishing technical challenge, featuring a double-skinned Teflon-coated woven glass fibre screen, the first time such technology has been used vertically in such form and extent in any building worldwide. The interiors sport a robust and vibrant colour palette, derived from the elements; earth, air, fire, water. Also, approximately 1,590m of 24 carat gold leaf were used to embellish the interior.
The hotel boasts one of the world's largest fleets of Rolls Royce's (including Park Wards, Silver Seraphs and Phantoms) all of which are available for guest transfers to the airport or around Dubai. Exclusive helicopter transfer to and from Dubai International Airport can be arranged, as well as scenic tours of the city and man-made islands. The two Royal Suites span the entire 25th floor, where palatial surroundings reach unsurpassed peaks of luxury, including a private elevator, private cinema, rotating beds, Majlis (Arabic meeting room) and extremely spacious dressing rooms.
Dining: With superb cuisine in dramatic settings and restaurants situated both among the stars and below the sea, dining at Burj Al Arab is truly a unique experience. The Burj has seven different but equally audacious restaurants such as Al Muntaha - sky view Restaurant, suspended on the 27th floor and offering unrivalled views of Dubai coastline and delicious contemporary European cuisine. Al Mahara or the oyster shell is a seafood lover's paradise that dives into the Arabian Gulf to delight its guests. Whereas Junsui is a contemporary restaurant offering authentic Asian dishes prepared live in opulent surroundings.
Royal Suite is priced at USD 15,000 per night.
Sharq Village & Spa, Doha, Qatar
The Royal Villa at the award-winning Sharq Village & Spa is currently the most expensive in the Middle East. It is a celebration of the regal lifestyle that is only known to a select few.
From the moment the BMW 7 series limousine chauffeur collects you from Doha International Airport, you know your experience at Sharq Village & Spa is going to be a very special. The resort, located in the area know an "Sharq" or the Orient, is inspired by traditional Qatari culture and architecture. Bestowed the Arabic name Beit Al Shyoukh, which translates to House of Royalty, this new incarnation promises an experience that is simultaneously authentic and contemporary while blending modern luxury with traditional architecture and design elements.
Designed to reflect the close-knit communities of fishermen, pearl divers and merchants that shaped Qatar's vibrant history, Sharq Village & Spa is also equipped with modern facilities and emenities to meet the requirements of international leisure and business travellers. The hotel exterior resembles that of an elegantly marbled sheikh's palace and the interior is no less regal with crystal draped chandeliers hanging from the towering arched ceilings. The lobby houses Qatar's only indoor souq where one can purchase everything from luxury designer wear to traditional Arabic ornaments.
Dining: Al Dana seafood restaurant is the only beachfront restaurant in Doha. Sits 118 persons and offers guests a relaxing beachside sanctuary in a breathtaking coastal inspired setting. All day dining restaurant Al Liwan offers authentic Middle Eastern dishes on the buffet for luncheons and dinners along with a La Carte menu. Guests may also savour the breathtaking over view from Al Wanis, the rooftop Shisha Terrace while enjoying a puff on the Shisha pipe. For Cigar connoisseurs, the Cigar Lounge offers a wide range of Cuban cigars amidst plush colonial surroundings.
Royal Villa is priced at USD 25,000.
Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa, Dubai UAE
Al Maha is the first ever attempt to create a concept encapsulating the history of Dubai, historical influences which have shaped the area, and the heritage, culture and the desert as an environment. Emirates Airlines becan by analysing the context of this unique site to maximise its potential, then developed an architectural style rooted in the heritage of the region and blending with the environment.
The design of Al Maha - Arabic for Arabian Oryx, a desert antelope-is based on luxury lodges in South Africa, Malaysia and Indonesia which combine the best of nature with the best of man-made creature comforts. It offers its guests a true escape, to a different environment, lifestyle and experience. More than 80% of Al Maha's furnishings and artifacts were custom-designed by Schusler Pechtold to complement the overall ambience and architectural theme. Furniture is handcrafted in the UAE or the Sultanate of Oman, from solid mahogany. No veneers are used and all timber comes from renewable sources. Large wooden poster beds, wooden wardrobes with handcrafted ironmongery, large chests with inlaid brasswork and tables converted from traditional local front doors give Al Maha its strong arabic accent.
Each suite has its own individual colours, artwork and antiquities, enriched with beautiful woollen rugs and carpets. Floors are tiled with pink sandstone slabs and walls are hand-plastered.
Dining: The finest international chefs ensure guests enjoy the very highest culinary standards, wherever they choose to dine - from thje relaxed informality of Al Diwaan restaurant and its alfresco veranda to the intimacy of a romantic meal on the private deck of a guest suite. With a variety of options from the Middle East and Meditteranean, and with special theme menus featuring Indian, Sri Lankan and Japanese dishes, Al Maha's cuisine is exotic and enticing.
Royal Suite is priced at USD 8,400 per night.
Banyan Tree Desert Spa & Resort, Al Areen, Bahrain
Nestled in the heart of the Arabian Desert, the specially commissioned resort is one of the most luxurious and extensive spas in the world. Offering travel connoisseurs a new address, the property is a part of the Al Areen development initiative, spearheaded by one of the leading Bahrain-based investment bank - Gulf Finance House B.S.C. Redefining desert opulence, the resort boasts the only all-villa private pool and jet-pool resort in the Middle East, three international restaurants, one of the world's most extensive spas and hydrotherapy complexes, a complete body wellness centre and the award winning Banyan Tree Gallery.
The magic of the Arabian nights comes to life in the Royal Pool Villa with its perfect blend of elegant Arabian architecture, high ceilings and ample space. The villa's main highlight is the sprawling master bedroom replete with a specially designed king-sized bed and oversized bathtub in the en-suite bathroom. The elegant ambience extends to the plush living area fitted with a wide range of modern amenities and a second bedroom with a king-size bed. For a taste of desert opulence, spend some time outside where the azure swimming pool, exquisite jet pool courtyard and private garden create an indulgent haven that is ideal for a family gathering or group of friends.
Dining: Saffron, the resorts signature restaurant serves contemporary Thai cuisine. Situated int he center of a body of water and accessed by a bridge, the architecture is a fusion of opulent Arabian and traditional Asian design. Escape everything on one of the three private dining islands, ideal for special occasions.
Royal Pool Villa is priced at USD 5,000 during peak seasons.
Al Faisaliah Hotel, Riyadh KSA
For starters, the Lord Norman Foster - designed structure, soaring a mighty 874 feet, was KSA's first skyscraper. In a city that gracefully melds tradition with sophisticated style, Al Faisaliah Hotel, a rosewood hotel, defines the ultimate in modern elegance and prestigious location. The stunning hotel boasts the largest column-free banquet and meeting facilities in the Kingdom. With the introduction of dedicated 24-hour butler service, the 224-room property has elevated the art of personal service to new levels in KSA. Perfectly suited to the discerning business traveller, Al Faisaliah offers spacious accommodations, technologically advanced in room communications systems, five culinary venues and a state-of-the-art health club.
Dining: Tantalising cuisine, elegant ambience and flawless service distinguish Al Faisaliah Hotel's fine dining restaurant - Cristal. Here, exotic flavors are interpreted with a creative touch and presented with artful aplomb. Golden sunlight and a casual atmosphere infuse La Brasserie with the appeal of your favorite bistro. The tempting aromas of freshly brewed Viennese coffee and handmade chocolates make the adjacent Cafe Royal the perfect location to relax with friends and colleagues. High atop Al Faisaliah Tower sits a technologically advanced and visually spectacular geodesic dome - The Globe. Within its dramatic interior, a stellar restaurant offers patronsa a stunning backdrop from which to enjoy inventive cuisine and panoramic views of the city.
The Royal Suite offers discerning guests a rare oasis for relaxing and private entertaining. Within its sumptuous retreat, opulent decor embraces bridal couples and long-term guests in sensual style. An expansive balcony overlooking the city is a memorable place for cocktails or evening stargazing.
Royal Suite is priced at USD 3,700 per night.
No comments:
Post a Comment