1. A JEWEL IN THE DESERT
Nofa Resort, Riyadh
Just outside the Saudi capital, bordering Nofa Wildlife Park, you’ll find Nofa Resort Riyadh, a Radisson Collection hotel, where its allure of luxury and seclusion is second-to-none. With Saudi’s desertscapes juxtaposed against majestic mountains and the resort’s bucolic gardens, the landscape invites enchanting escapism.
The hotel’s Middle Eastern sensibilities are replete with old-world African charm, an interior design combination that spirits guests to far-away lands. The resort’s 57 luxury bungalows and villas are designed with African accents and nature in mind, and served with a side-order of private pool and garden, offering seclusion and social-distancing of the highest-order, whilst letting you safely cocoon yourself in the natural surrounds of this Riyadh retreat.
Rebalance mind, body and soul in Nofa Spa, submerge yourself in serenity at one of the hotel’s two pools, or rekindle your love of the outdoors at the equestrian centre, wildlife park or amid the rolling greens of Nofa’s world-class golf course. Once only open to members, as of this month guests can now book online, making this a really special staycation for anyone seeking both peace and privacy.
2. REFRESHINGLY DIFFERENT
Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis
A hotel that ‘hates the ordinary and loves the different’, Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis takes the idea of a conventional urban staycation, turns it on its head and throws out a far more forward-thinking and playful option.
Having opened in February this year, Radisson RED’s casual vibe has fast appealed to a more urban millennial crowd seeking laid-back luxury, personality and contemporary connectivity all set to a backdrop of eye-popping avant-garde design.
Refusing to blend in or conform to the norm, the hotel’s bold design (think crisp whites, neon hues and graffitied walls by local artists) and integrated technology have created a vibrant tech playground that speaks to millennials and those demanding constant connectivity. A brilliant business hub where space is of the essence, the hotel’s boundless Wi-Fi, 10 high-tech meeting spaces, and a 600-metre multi-event area cater perfectly for business and leisure.
But it’s not all work, work, work… Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis’ playful personality seeps into every corner, creating a cool and casual hangout for those simply wanting to escape and experience something more meaningful in style.
3. STYLE, FIRE & SOUL
Radisson Blu, Dubai Waterfront
Since Radisson Blu Dubai Waterfront opened in 2018 it has firmly positioned itself at the top of ‘best hotel lists’ of those revelling in ‘the friendliest five-star hotel in town’. Sleek, chic and serene in its design, the city hotel’s contemporary sophistication offers an unfussy finesse, where personality and soul reign supreme.
Few hotels in Dubai can claim bragging rights as good as this for views over Business Bay and Burj Khalifa, making this property a catch on location alone. But beyond the sparkling blues of the bay and towering edifice vantage points, it is Radisson Blu Dubai Waterfront’s approach to service that makes it truly stand out.
With a ‘Yes I Can’ motto permeating throughout, your wish is everyone’s command, whipping away the pressures of life’s little mundanities to allow you to immerse yourself in pure, unadulterated urban escapism. Away from the city’s cacophony below, here you can find respite and tranquility amid its 432 ultra-modern rooms, decompressing at the pool or spa, before taking a deep dive into Dubai’s food scene at one of the hotel’s restaurants, and what is arguably the city’s best steakhouse, FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar. A staycation with style, fire and soul.
4. MUSCAT ON MY MIND
Hormuz Grand, Muscat
Oman remains one of the most beautiful destinations in the Middle East for topography, culture and adventure, and Hormuz Grand, a Radisson Collection Hotel, is primed for all three with its central location. Close to Muscat Hills Golf Club, the Marina and Muscat International Airport, the hotel services the modern traveller’s triumvirate needs of business, pleasure and leisure.
Contemporary in its approach, whilst retaining traditional sensibilities amid its modern design, the hotel’s impeccable service is testament to the renowned Omani hospitality, ensuring diligent care and attention for those staying solo, for work or self-isolating family stays. Suites draw on Oman’s dramatic landscape for interior design, with an easy blend of contemporary-meets-traditional.
The serene, al fresco swimming pool is flanked by trickling water features and feels worlds away from urban externalities, while the menu served at Qureshi Bab-Al-Hind restaurant will take you on a gastronomic journey around India. Use Hormuz Grand as a base for business, a starting point for outdoor adventure or as a destination for relaxation. The best things come in threes, after all.