Desert Resort: A Fusion of Luxury and Bedouin Culture

A Unique Project by Kristina Zanic

A unique project to design a luxurious resort in the middle of the desert, the Desert Resort, created by renowned designer Kristina Zanic, is a stunning fusion of luxury and the deeply rooted Bedouin culture of the Middle East. Located in Al Wadi, Ras Al Kaimah, United Arab Emirates, this resort offers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines comfort, modern facilities, and the breathtaking desert landscape.

The design of the Desert Resort reflects the essence of the Bedouin lifestyle, while incorporating modern touches to create an ideal getaway for guests seeking relaxation and tranquility. The private villas, pool villas, and tented villas have been meticulously redesigned to provide a luxurious and comfortable experience. The courtyard and various F&B areas, including The Farmhouse, have also been given a fresh and inviting look.

One of the main challenges of this project was to seamlessly blend luxury with the desert theme while working within a limited budget. Kristina Zanic and her team successfully overcame this challenge by carefully selecting materials, textures, and colors that evoke the spirit of the desert while maintaining a sense of opulence and elegance.

Operated by Ritz Carlton, the Desert Resort offers guests a truly immersive experience in the heart of the desert. From the moment they arrive, they are greeted with the warm hospitality and exceptional service that the Ritz Carlton brand is known for.

The design process for the Desert Resort began in 2016, and the majority of the project has been completed and is fully operational. Two additional F&B areas, Samar Lounge and Moon Bar, are set to open soon, further enhancing the guest experience.

The exceptional design of the Desert Resort has been recognized with the prestigious Bronze A' Design Award in the Hospitality, Recreation, Travel, and Tourism Design category in 2018. This award is a testament to the creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skill demonstrated by Kristina Zanic and her team. Their design not only showcases the best practices in art, science, design, and technology, but also contributes to improving the quality of life for guests, making the world a better place.