Elevating stays on the UAE’s highest peak, SAIJ Mountain Lodge is set to open in the final quarter of the year and promises a luxurious mountain retreat for those looking to discover the rugged side to Ras Al Khaimah. Designed as an authentic immersion into the dramatic landscapes, the new hotel will feature 70 lodges, each cleverly designed to blend into the mountainscape, while framing the expansive views from the resort’s lofty perch 1,680 metres above sea level.

Guests will arrive at a dedicated welcome pavilion, with winding pathways and landscaped terraces revealling new spaces as you travel deeper into the site, from lounges and dining spaces to the guest lodges. All have been designed to create spaces to gather and reflect, encouraging connection and social interaction between guests, while also connecting them to the surrounding environment.

Everywhere you look promises to reveal breathtaking views, from rugged peaks to farmland terraces and natural oases.

Beyond bedding down in striking lodges, SAIJ promises an immersion into the mountains through activities such as hiking trails, heritage experiences and creative workshops, as well as wellness activities that draw inspiration from timeless Arabian techniques. Think sunrise meditation, mornings discovering traditional farming practices, afternoon cooking classes and sunset hikes.

For now, prices and an official opening date haven’t yet been given, but it’s set to open before the end of the year – so we won’t have long to wait.

Before the end of the year, Ras Al Khaimah’s hotel scene will also welcome the arrival of Rotana Ras Al Khaimah – The Mangroves by September, adding a 258-room hotel at Al Qawasim Corniche.

Then next year is set to be a huge one for new hotel openings in RAK, with the hotly anticipated Wynn Al Marjan making its debut, alongside openings from W, JW Marriott and Nobu.