logo
Banyan Tree invites guests to explore AlUla for Eid Al-Fitr

Banyan Tree invites guests to explore AlUla for Eid Al-Fitr

Trade Arabia23-03-2025
As Eid Al Fitr approaches, Banyan Tree AlUla invites guests to embrace the spirit of celebration in a truly luxurious setting, offering an exceptional getaway in the heart of AlUla.
Nestled in the Ashar Valley, the all-villa resort offers a serene retreat where guests can unwind in private pool villas, enjoy immersive experiences, and explore the rich heritage of AlUla.
To elevate the occasion even further, the resort has introduced the 'Stay More, Pay Less' offer, granting guests up to 20% off a minimum three-night stay, inclusive of daily breakfast.
On April 1st 2025, the celebrations commence with an exclusive Eid Brunch from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Harrat, surrounded by AlUla's breathtaking scenery.
The lavish spread features an array of international and Middle Eastern flavours, with live grill stations serving flank steak, tiger prawns, Thai green curry seafood, Wagyu shawarma, and an exquisite sushi selection, with Kunafa and rich chocolate cake providing a decadent finale.
A live Oud performance is set to ehance the atmosphere, creating a joyful and immersive experience.
Beyond the Eid Brunch celebration, Banyan Tree AlUla offers a variety of culinary experiences that showcase both local and international flavours.
Saffron, the resort's award-winning Thai restaurant, brings the authentic essence of Thailand to the desert, serving fragrant curries, fresh seafood, and expertly crafted dishes in an intimate setting.
For holistic rejuvenation, the Banyan Tree Spa serves as an oasis of tranquility, offering treatments inspired by Eastern and Western healing traditions.
Signature experiences include the Royal Banyan treatment, a deeply restorative ritual using warm herbal pouches, soothing massage techniques, and sesame oil therapy to enhance circulation and ease tension.
Set against the dramatic desert backdrop, the Rock Pool offers another unique wellness experience, allowing guests to unwind in a serene, natural setting.
During their visit, guests can explore the wonders of Hegra, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage site, or follow the Rock Art Trail, revealing ancient inscriptions etched into stone over millennia.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Dusit International expands Saudi portfolio with new dusitD2 resort in Al Ahsa
Dusit International expands Saudi portfolio with new dusitD2 resort in Al Ahsa

Syyaha

time6 days ago

  • Syyaha

Dusit International expands Saudi portfolio with new dusitD2 resort in Al Ahsa

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 August 2025 – Dusit International has signed a hotel management agreement with Al Ghadeer Group to operate dusitD2 Al Ahsa – a new upper-upscale resort in the heart of Al Ahsa Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula. The signing ceremony was held under the esteemed patronage of HRH Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr Al Saud, Governor of Al Ahsa. Pictured (from left): Mr Shadi El Ghoneimi and Mr Omar El Ghoneimi, El Ghoneimi Architects; Mr Elias Maalouf, AVP Technical Services & Development – EMEA, Dusit International; Sheikh Bassem Al Ghadeer – Chairman Al Ghadeer Group; HRH Prince Saud bin Talal Al Saud, Governor of Al Ahsa Province; Mr Naif Al Madi, Chief Business Officer, Tourism Development Fund; Mr Ossama Al Hattami, VP – Hospitality, Dusit Saudi; Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International; and Mr Khaled Al Hattami, Chief Executive Officer, Dusit Saudi. The signing ceremony, held under the esteemed patronage of HRH Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr Al Saud, Governor of Al Ahsa, was attended by notable dignitaries including Mr Naif Al Madi, Chief Business Officer of the Tourism Development Fund; Sheikh Bassem Al Ghadeer, Chairman of Al Ghadeer Group of Companies; and Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer of Dusit International. Located just 30 minutes by car from Al Ahsa International Airport and 90 minutes from Dammam, dusitD2 Al Ahsa is set amidst palm-fringed landscapes and dramatic mountain vistas. The resort will offer 120 spacious suites, ranging from one-bedroom to three-bedroom configurations, each with a private terrace and plunge pool, providing an elevated sense of privacy and relaxation. Designed by Cairo-based El Ghoneimi Architects, the resort's masterplan draws inspiration from the desert's timeless beauty, the nearby mountains, and the life-giving symbolism of the palm tree. Guests will enjoy a comprehensive range of premium facilities, including a wellness centre with private treatment rooms, meditation areas, and dedicated spaces for yoga and holistic healing; an elegant 1,500 sq m ballroom and expansive outdoor event lawn for weddings and large social or corporate gatherings; well-equipped meeting rooms for business travellers; a vibrant all-day dining restaurant; a lobby café offering light gourmet fare; a large outdoor swimming pool with an adjoining kids' pool; and a dedicated kids club providing engaging activities in a safe and stimulating environment. Surrounded by cultural and ecological treasures such as Al Qarah Mountain, Juatha Park, and the historic Qaisariah Souq, the resort is ideally positioned to serve as a gateway for domestic and international travellers seeking meaningful experiences and immersive stays amid the largest oasis in the world. 'This important signing reflects our strategic commitment to bringing Dusit's unique brand of Thai-inspired, gracious hospitality to key destinations worldwide and our dedication to delivering sustainable value for the communities we serve,' said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. 'We are delighted to partner with Al Ghadeer Group to create a destination that celebrates Al Ahsa's rich heritage and natural beauty while offering exceptional comfort, modern luxury, responsible design, and memorable experiences for guests of all ages.' Set to open in 2027, dusitD2 Al Ahsa underscores Dusit International's continued expansion in the Middle East, where the company currently operates nine properties and continues to explore opportunities to deliver holistic hospitality experiences across the region. It is the second Dusit-branded property confirmed for Saudi Arabia, following the upcoming opening of Dusit Princess Al Majma'ah, Riyadh, scheduled for Q4 this year.

UAE Passport Ranks as 8th Most Powerful Globally
UAE Passport Ranks as 8th Most Powerful Globally

Gulf Insider

time24-07-2025

  • Gulf Insider

UAE Passport Ranks as 8th Most Powerful Globally

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has solidified its position among the world's most powerful passports, climbing to 8th place in the 2025 Henley Passport Index – a remarkable rise from 42nd a decade ago that reflects the country's expanding diplomatic reach and visa liberalisation efforts. UAE passport holders can now travel to 185 destinations without a prior visa, making it the highest-ranked Middle Eastern nation and the only major riser to break into the global Top 10 in recent years. The Henley Passport Index, which is compiled from exclusive travel data provided by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), shows an increasing shift in global mobility power towards Asia and the Gulf region, with emerging economies making steady gains as traditional Western powers experience declines. 'The UAE stands out as a model of strategic diplomacy,' said Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, chairman of Henley & Partners. 'Its rise reflects years of consistent efforts to build reciprocal visa agreements.' Singapore – 193 destinations Japan, South Korea – 190 France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland, Denmark, Ireland – 189 Sweden, Netherlands, Portugal, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway – 188 Greece, Switzerland, New Zealand – 187 United Kingdom – 186 Malta – 185 United Arab Emirates – 185 Czechia – 184 United States, Canada, Australia, Hungary – 182 Alongside the UAE's gains, Saudi Arabia has added four new visa-free destinations in 2025, increasing its total to 91 and lifting it four places to 54th. China has also significantly expanded its visa openness, now granting visa-free entry to 75 countries, including all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members, various South American nations, and some European states — helping boost mobility for GCC citizens. India has climbed eight spots to 77th, while China ranks 60th, both among the fastest risers in recent years. By contrast, the United States has slipped to 10th place, offering visa-free access to 182 destinations, its lowest ranking in two decades. The United Kingdom now ranks 6th, down from first place in 2015. Other countries experiencing declines include Venezuela, which fell 15 places to 45th, and Canada, which dropped four spots. 'Passport power increasingly reflects active diplomacy and global engagement. Citizens from traditional powers like the US and UK are seeking alternative citizenship and residence options amid rising geopolitical uncertainty,' said Steffen. Also read: Singapore Remains Most Powerful Passport as US and UK Decline, UAE and Emerging Economies Rise

Hijri New Year 2025: UAE Announces Islamic New Year Holiday For Public Sector
Hijri New Year 2025: UAE Announces Islamic New Year Holiday For Public Sector

Gulf Insider

time16-06-2025

  • Gulf Insider

Hijri New Year 2025: UAE Announces Islamic New Year Holiday For Public Sector

The UAE has announced a one-day holiday for the Hijri New Year on Friday, June 27. The announcement for the public sector holiday was made by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has also announced a similar holiday for the private sector. The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year, commemorates the migration (Hijrah) of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, an event that marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. Though the occasion is not typically celebrated with the same scale as Eid Al Fitr or Eid Al Adha, it remains an important date in the Islamic world and is recognized as a public holiday in the UAE. In addition to the Islamic New Year, the next religious holiday on the horizon will be Mawlid Al Nabawi, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, expected to be observed on Thursday, September 4, 2025. As with all Islamic holidays, the exact date will depend on the official moon-sighting and confirmation by relevant religious authorities in the UAE. Looking ahead to 2026, the Islamic calendar is set to align key observances with the cooler winter and spring months. Ramadan, the sacred month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, is expected to begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, although this too will depend on the sighting of the crescent moon. Eid Al Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, is likely to fall on Friday, March 20, 2026, providing what could be a three-day weekend for UAE residents. Meanwhile, Eid Al Adha, the most significant of the Islamic festivals, is expected around Tuesday, May 26, 2026, based on the anticipated sighting of the Dhul Hijjah moon on May 17.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store