Middle East
Adventure Awaits in UAE
By Amber Kallor
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
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Creative director Tom Claeren escapes to the United Arab Emirates and explores the country from a supercar, a camel, and even a hot air balloon. Experience the wonders of The Ritz-Carlton in Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Abu Dhabi.

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After touching down in the UAE, refresh both mind and body at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai—a family-friendly oasis situated along the crystal clear waters of the Arabian Gulf. This location is a prime place to “rest, relax, and recharge,” says Claeren.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image

Take in the towering skyscrapers from atop a jet-ski or enjoy the view from a Bedouin-inspired tent at Amaseena, a restaurant specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine.

Tom Claeren

Dubai is a city of the world where everyone is welcome.

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Craving more action? Stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre located in the beating heart of this modern metropolis. Head straight to the rooftop pool, a “hot spot for photos,” says Claeren.

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If you really want to see what this supercar can do, drive 30 minutes outside the city. “With its 800-horsepower engine, it will reach 100 kilometers per hour in about 2.8 seconds,” explains Claeren. “On quiet desert roads you can really accelerate.”

If you really want to see what this supercar can do, drive 30 minutes outside the city. “With its 800-horsepower engine, it will reach 100 kilometers per hour in about 2.8 seconds,” explains Claeren. “On quiet desert roads you can really accelerate.”

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image

Go off-roading in the early morning to avoid the heat of the day and whip through vast stretches of sand undisturbed. “It’s sensational—you feel like a pilot in the Dakar Rally!” says Claeren of driving dune buggies with Monster Experience.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image

Escape to The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert to reconnect with nature on a 1,235-acre preserve. Enjoy everything from falconry to target practice. “It wasn't easy, but I picked it up fast,” says Claeren of his private archery lesson.

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Claeren may have arrived in Ras Al Khaimah behind the wheel of a supercar, but he says taking a camel for a spin “was surprisingly smooth.” Refuel after your ride with a variety of meze featuring fresh local ingredients at Kaheela Restaurant.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image

Cool off at the The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal by diving into one of the city’s largest outdoor pools. Follow a day of fun in the sun with dinner at The Forge. Claeren recommends ordering the chef’s photo-worthy mozzarella balloon.

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Round out your trip with a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Located just steps away from The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, Claeren says the country’s largest mosque is a “beautiful place to pray, think, or just be inspired.”