Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach combines learning the art of ancient pearl cultivation and bespoke jewellery design as part of its new and unique Arabian Pearl Retreat experience. It is the first experience of its kind to be introduced in the Middle East and is ideal for those seeking to impress loved ones with the ultimate romantic gesture.
The journey starts with a scenic Seawings flight from Dubai Creek direct to Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach resort to check in to a Beach Pool Villa, before enjoying a snack at the al fresco Sands restaurant and a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Guests will then be swept away by private car to visit the only pearl farm in the United Arab Emirates for an insight into the history of pearl farming and the techniques used for harvesting. A sumptuous picnic lunch will be served by a personal waiter on the floating majilis, located within the mangroves amongst the resident flamingo's and camels. Guests will then have the chance to choose their own oysters and select two pearls to design and create a signature jewellery masterpiece, under the instruction of a local jewellery designer.
More than 50% of natural pearl production comes from the Arabian Gulf and in 2005 following extensive research between the UAE and Japan; the Arabian Gulf region started producing culture pearls for the first time. It is now a thriving business and Ras Al Khaimah pearls are world renowned for their size and quality. The average mass of pearls starts at 7mm and can reach up to 12mm compared to a maximum of 8mm for Japanese pearls.
Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach is the perfect setting for this Arabic experience. Set on a private beach with captivating views of the Gulf, its 32 Beachfront Pool Villas are designed for guests to experience the nomadic life of Bedouin tribes. Each villa offers its own infinity plunge pool, beach cabana and private terrace. There is also a dedicated spa with six treatment rooms situated at the end of the peninsula with sweeping views out across the ocean and a beach grill restaurant, Sands, set around a large infinity pool.
The Arabian Pearl Retreat experience starts from AED 9,350 (approx. 1945 Euros) for one night in a Beachfront Pool Villa based on two sharing including service charges. The price includes transfer by seaplane from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah, in-villa breakfast for two and a visit to the pearl farm with a complimentary gift of two pearls. A picnic lunch on the floating majilis is also included during the pearl farm visit along with 10mg of white gold and a bespoke piece of jewellery. Transfers back to Dubai are by road but guests can book a return trip by seaplane for an additional 850AED. The offer is valid until 28 February 2014.
For reservations, please contact Banyan Tree Al Wadi and Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah at +971 7 206 76005/04 or +971 7 206 7777, email reservations-alwadi@banyantree.com