Anantara Hotels & Resorts recently opened a Santorini dupe in Abu Dhabi. It offers the stunning vibes of the Aegean Sea hotspot combined with the well-known luxury of the United Arab Emirates.
Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat is an adults-only, 22-key beachside getaway. Whether in a room or a suite, all guests have scenic water views from their lodgings — decorated in “unparalleled coastal opulence.” The most expensive listing on the retreat resort’s website is the Royal Santorini Duplex Suite. The high-end stay is 2,744 square feet with a walk-in wardrobe, two outdoor terraces, and panoramic views for slightly under $2,000 a night.
Notably, the site highlighted that those who buy out the property, such as for a group event, will receive butler service.
The resort truly brings Santorini’s architectural appeal to life, including the European hotspot’s white facades, shapely buildings, and inviting decor. As with any good luxury accommodation, the boutique lodging has an infinity-edge pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The latter is outfitted with massage rooms and a cold plunge pool. It also has a Moroccan bath experience, and steam and sauna offerings.
Visitors can also enjoy yoga, water sports, and a private screening within the resort’s VIP cinema viewing lounge.
Additionally, the resort has two on-site dining options and 24-hour in-room dining service. Oia Oasis provides “Arabian delights” to savor, while Thalassa is a Mediterranean food venue with “Greek overtures.”
What Makes The Dupe Different From The Original Destination?
Property general manager Rachid Bakas told CNN that Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat is “exclusive.”
“This gives you that intimacy, this gives you that privacy,” Bakas noted. “It’s a hideaway, which you might not have actually in Santorini (Greece) because especially in summer, everywhere is packed. Everywhere is busy.”
Where Is Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat?
It’s located 25 minutes from Abu Dhabi’s Al Maktoum International Airport and an hour from the city’s downtown area. As an in between oasis, the resort is nearly equidistant to Dubai.
Visitors can snag a day pass to the Santorini dupe in the desert starting from $136.
