Ras Al Khaimah, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, is emerging as a new tourism contender with its easy-going persona and natural attractions like mountains and beaches. While not as oil-rich as neighboring emirates, Ras Al Khaimah boasts an untapped natural beauty and rich 5000-year heritage. The Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah opened in 2013 and has established itself as a leading hotel, offering luxurious accommodations and service. The interior design blends the rugged outdoors of Ras Al Khaimah with touches of Art Deco, crafting a delicate marriage of local traditions and the Waldorf Astoria's New York roots.

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The Pearl of an Emirate
TO the less acquainted traveller, naming more than two of the
UAE’s seven emirates can prove challenging. With Abu Dhabi and Dubai
traditionally battling it out for the nation’s tourism top spot, a new
contender is emerging with a justifiable pedigree of its own.
Ras Al Khaimah, once known as one of the UAE’s sleepier emirates,
is capitalising on the allure of its easy-going persona to become the
destination of choice for holidaymakers looking for stimulation beyond
the glossy shopping malls. Though not oil-rich like its neighbours, this
rustic location boasts untapped natural resources above ground, with
the beautiful and dramaticAl Hajar Mountains,azure blue sea with white
beaches, red sandy deserts and lush green plains providing a welcome
alternative to its urban rivals.Combined with a rich heritage dating back
over 5000 years, numerous historical sites, forts and abandoned villages,
and its renowned tradition of local pearl diving, times are changing for
the former sleeping giant.
Quick to capitalize on in this burgeoning hospitality horizon, the
Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah opened its doors in August 2013
and soon established itself as one of the UAE’s leading hotels.With its
combination of luxuriously appointed accommodations and unparalleled
‘TrueWaldorf Service’,this global luxury brand of HiltonWorldwide has
built a reputation capable of pleasing even the most discerning of guests.
The Gallery HBA London was tasked with crafting an interior design
that channels the rugged outdoors of Ras Al Khaimah into the perfect
serene retreat. From the moment guests enter, they are immersed in an
ambience woven from the ancient history, tradition and culture of the
UAE while acknowledging the Waldorf Astoria’s NewYork flagship with
Art Deco style touches - crafting a delicate marriage of traditions.
words by Stuart Langrish
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