Al Faya Retreat

With travel restrictions still in place, we find ourselves looking to the hidden gems of the UAE for vacation vibes. For the finest relaxation and seclusion, look to Al Faya Retreat in Sharjah. A mastery of minimal architecture and design, it’s home to just five contemporary yet luxurious rooms and is only a little over an hour drive from Dubai.

The desert destination has a retro motel feel, due to its roadside location. The café is on one side, the spa and rooms, on the other. The friendly staff take safety measures seriously, and took our temperatures as soon as we arrived, and then again when we entered the café.

Al Faya Retreat

POOL

We decided to spend our first few hours by the saltwater pool. Fresh towels were provided, and with its limited rooms, there weren’t any other guests, so we had the concrete-clad watering hole to ourselves – optimal social distancing. They offered to bring our light yet delectable salads across from the café, so we could enjoy it wrapped up in towels poolside.

Pure tranquillity and escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life can be found at the spa, which is perfectly set amongst the sand dunes in its own building, and houses a Himalayan salt room, shower walk, as well as an herbal sauna. Once we were shown around, we were left to our own devices, to pick and choose which treatments we wanted, completely uninterrupted by staff. Again, perfect for those looking to distance themselves.

THE SPA AT AL FAYA RETREAT IS A PRIVATE SANCTUARY ONLY AVAILABLE TO IN-HOUSE GUESTS 

Given that Al Faya is located within the Mlieha region, it offers much more than total relaxation. If you fancy spending a day learning about the ancient archeology of the UAE or taking in a desert safari like none other, this is where to do it.

We drove out into the dunes in the late afternoon, where we enjoyed an educational off-road experience – we stopped at both Camel and Fossil Rock, witnessed a Bedouin town from afar, and watched the sunset high up in the mountains.

THE RESTAURANT AT AL FAYA RETREAT IS INSPIRED BY A ROADHOUSE CONCEPT AND PROVIDES AN INTIMATE AND PRIVATE SETTING

Instead of having dinner back at the hotel, we opted for a private BBQ under the stars, followed by stargazing and a cup of karak. An idyllic end to an unforgettable day.

Find Al Faya Retreat at Al Batayeh – Al Faya Road, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

They currently offer various day and staycation packages, along with experiences and treatments. For more information, call +971 06 801 2020 or visit myskhotels.com/al-faya-retreat

Photos: Supplied