Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat hotel review: Timeless Aegean charm brought to UAE


Dean Wilkins
  • English
  • Arabic

White-washed walls, low-lying domed buildings, crystal white sands and a brilliant blue sea – no, it’s not the Aegean coastline, it’s Abu Dhabi.

More specifically, it’s the recently opened Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat which offers postcard-pretty Grecian charm on the shores of Ghantoot, a small neighbourhood on the emirate’s border with Dubai. The first photos of the resort were teased last September and it quietly opened in February.

While the Greek isle of the same name is increasingly sought out, with the likes of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi offering low-cost flights there from the UAE capital – it comes with the problems of overcrowding, often extortionate prices of hotels and sorry sight of donkey taxis to contend with. Instead, my wife and I decide to keep things local, with a visit to Anantara's newest UAE arrival and are thrilled to be some of the first guests through the doors – seizing a chance to enjoy the five-star adults-only retreat as a babymoon before our little one arrives.

Anantara Santorini sits on the coast of Ghantoot, known best as the halfway point between the Abu Dhabi-Dubai drive. Photo: Anantara Santorini
Anantara Santorini sits on the coast of Ghantoot, known best as the halfway point between the Abu Dhabi-Dubai drive. Photo: Anantara Santorini

The welcome

Less than a typical hotel-style arrival, our entrance feels more like we were being welcomed to a (very wealthy) friend’s home.

Staff know our names and lead us into a lounge with comfy sofas, welcome drinks and a cold towel for refreshment. We’re shown the views of the beach by Fernando, our round-the-clock butler, as someone else sorts the fiddly bits of IDs, signing forms, assigning keys and so on. In a nutshell: it’s relaxation from the second we pull up.

The neighbourhood

Ghantoot is, probably, best known for being the halfway point on the between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but we soon discover that this small pocket of coastline is unrivalled when it comes to peace.

For international visitors, it’s about a 25-minute drive from Al Maktoum International Airport, 35 minutes from Zayed International Airport and about an hour from Dubai International Airport.

The room

There are only 22 rooms at the resort, although luxury suite is probably a more fitting term for each.

The 255-square-metre royal duplex suite is the pinnacle and even comes with a private gym. Each abode is inspired by the timeless architectural aesthetics of Santorini. That means few, if any, straight lines or hard edges. Instead, it’s all gentle curved walls painted bright white, hard stone floors and light wooden finishings with a slightly nautical nod.

From bed to beach, it's 17 steps. Photo: Anantara Santorini
From bed to beach, it's 17 steps. Photo: Anantara Santorini

We’re staying in the Fira sea view room, which has a terrace leading straight onto the beach. It’s 17 steps from the gloriously comfy super-king bed to the beach, I count. The terrace has a double bed and an egg chair, and is reached via floor-to-ceiling window doors that bathe the room in light.

Usual amenities of TV, coffee makers, mini bar, eco-friendly toiletries and refillable water bottles aside, it’s the enormous fluffy towels that we are most grateful for. This room has no bath, which plays into the hotel's water-saving credentials, though some guests may wish to ask which rooms do before booking, especially expectant mothers looking for an extra dose of night-time comfort.

The scene

To give the beach Santorini’s famed white and sugary soft feeling, sand from Algeria has been brought in.

There is also a made-for-Instagram infinity pool (which has an olive tree growing in its middle), bar and vast outdoor seating area. Inside there's a well-equipped gym and a comfortable spa that includes a Moroccan hammam, steam room and sauna, cold plunge pool and couples massage rooms. The one-hour treatment for couples is faultless, and a pregnancy massage is “peak relaxation”, I'm told.

The hotel’s size also makes it prime for buy-outs for intimate group getaways, work retreats or a wedding venue with a stunning backdrop. In the next few months, a cigar lounge and cinema, complete with double loungers, will also be added.

The food

The hotel has two restaurants, Oia Oasis and Thalassa. The first is on the upper level, steps away from the pool, and provides a more casual breakfast and lunch affair, but it is also open for dinner.

Breakfast here is served a la carte and offers a typical array of western dishes: eggs, avocado on toast, acai bowls and fruit platters. Don’t skip the chance to have a coffee at sunrise in the morning. Waiters know the dietary restrictions for pregnant guests – decaf, hard eggs, no raw meat or shellfish et al – which offers extra peace of mind for our babymooning selves.

Lunch and dinner menus offer Middle Eastern favourites, including a mezze and bread platter (Dh120), salads, soups, seafood and grills. The spicy makanek sausages (Dh90) served with pomegranate molasses, whole-grilled prawns (Dh165) and the dukkah-crusted sea bass (Dh175) are particular highlights.

Evening meals are best enjoyed at Thalassa, which means “sea” in Greek after the goddess said to be the personification of the Mediterranean Sea. Appropriately, it's next to the sea on the level below and focuses on Greek classics, with the occasional local twist.

Expect classic dips like tzatziki, tyrokafteri (spiced cheese) and melitzanosalata (aubergine) alongside watermelon and feta salad, horiatiki and fisherman soup. There’s a raw bar with Wagyu beef tartare (Dh220) and Dibba Bay oysters (Dh180), while mains include sea bass (Dh220), moussaka (Dh175) and chicken souvlaki (Dh195). Service, like everywhere else on the property, is swift, engaging and always with a smile.

Highs and lows

Peace and quiet are in endless supply, the rooms are gorgeous and the proximity to the beach for each is a real selling point. The food feels well-curated and the infinity pool is beautiful. There are big ticks for eco credentials and for pregnant guests, as there seems to be nothing staff can't tweak or offer an alternative for.

It’s not a low, merely something to be aware of, travellers who like the idea of “heading out for a walk to see what’s about” in the evenings will be left wanting. This is a remote property, so embrace the tranquillity.

The insider tip

Wait until about an hour before sunset to take snaps, it's when the rays bounce off the white walls and the curves and architectural quirks create divine photo opportunities.

When the sun starts to set, the property's timeless architecture serves up excellent photo opportunities. Photo: Anantara Santorini
When the sun starts to set, the property's timeless architecture serves up excellent photo opportunities. Photo: Anantara Santorini

The verdict

Adult-only bliss amid a charming architectural homage to one of the world’s prettiest islands, perfect for romantic getaways and weekend escapes.

The bottom line

Nightly room rates start at Dh2,200, including breakfast. Check-in time is from 3pm and checkout time is at noon; www.anantara.com

This review was conducted at the invitation of the hotel and reflects hotel standards during this time. Services may change in the future

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
The squad traveling to Brazil:

Faisal Al Ketbi, Ibrahim Al Hosani, Khalfan Humaid Balhol, Khalifa Saeed Al Suwaidi, Mubarak Basharhil, Obaid Salem Al Nuaimi, Saeed Juma Al Mazrouei, Saoud Abdulla Al Hammadi, Taleb Al Kirbi, Yahia Mansour Al Hammadi, Zayed Al Kaabi, Zayed Saif Al Mansoori, Saaid Haj Hamdou, Hamad Saeed Al Nuaimi. Coaches Roberto Lima and Alex Paz.

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
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Things Heard & Seen

Directed by: Shari Springer Berman, Robert Pulcini

Starring: Amanda Seyfried, James Norton

2/5

One in nine do not have enough to eat

Created in 1961, the World Food Programme is pledged to fight hunger worldwide as well as providing emergency food assistance in a crisis.

One of the organisation’s goals is the Zero Hunger Pledge, adopted by the international community in 2015 as one of the 17 Sustainable Goals for Sustainable Development, to end world hunger by 2030.

The WFP, a branch of the United Nations, is funded by voluntary donations from governments, businesses and private donations.

Almost two thirds of its operations currently take place in conflict zones, where it is calculated that people are more than three times likely to suffer from malnutrition than in peaceful countries.

It is currently estimated that one in nine people globally do not have enough to eat.

On any one day, the WFP estimates that it has 5,000 lorries, 20 ships and 70 aircraft on the move.

Outside emergencies, the WFP provides school meals to up to 25 million children in 63 countries, while working with communities to improve nutrition. Where possible, it buys supplies from developing countries to cut down transport cost and boost local economies.

 

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Honeymoonish
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What is Genes in Space?

Genes in Space is an annual competition first launched by the UAE Space Agency, The National and Boeing in 2015.

It challenges school pupils to design experiments to be conducted in space and it aims to encourage future talent for the UAE’s fledgling space industry. It is the first of its kind in the UAE and, as well as encouraging talent, it also aims to raise interest and awareness among the general population about space exploration. 

Ferrari 12Cilindri specs

Engine: naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12

Power: 819hp

Torque: 678Nm at 7,250rpm

Price: From Dh1,700,000

Available: Now

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Why your domicile status is important

Your UK residence status is assessed using the statutory residence test. While your residence status – ie where you live - is assessed every year, your domicile status is assessed over your lifetime.

Your domicile of origin generally comes from your parents and if your parents were not married, then it is decided by your father. Your domicile is generally the country your father considered his permanent home when you were born. 

UK residents who have their permanent home ("domicile") outside the UK may not have to pay UK tax on foreign income. For example, they do not pay tax on foreign income or gains if they are less than £2,000 in the tax year and do not transfer that gain to a UK bank account.

A UK-domiciled person, however, is liable for UK tax on their worldwide income and gains when they are resident in the UK.

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The specs

Engine: 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8
Power: 620hp from 5,750-7,500rpm
Torque: 760Nm from 3,000-5,750rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed dual-clutch auto
On sale: Now
Price: From Dh1.05 million ($286,000)

How to apply for a drone permit
  • Individuals must register on UAE Drone app or website using their UAE Pass
  • Add all their personal details, including name, nationality, passport number, Emiratis ID, email and phone number
  • Upload the training certificate from a centre accredited by the GCAA
  • Submit their request
What are the regulations?
  • Fly it within visual line of sight
  • Never over populated areas
  • Ensure maximum flying height of 400 feet (122 metres) above ground level is not crossed
  • Users must avoid flying over restricted areas listed on the UAE Drone app
  • Only fly the drone during the day, and never at night
  • Should have a live feed of the drone flight
  • Drones must weigh 5 kg or less
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GIANT REVIEW

Starring: Amir El-Masry, Pierce Brosnan

Director: Athale

Rating: 4/5

Ashes 2019 schedule

August 1-5: First Test, Edgbaston

August 14-18: Second Test, Lord's

August 22-26: Third Test, Headingley

September 4-8: Fourth Test, Old Trafford

September 12-16: Fifth Test, Oval

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The Sand Castle

Director: Matty Brown

Stars: Nadine Labaki, Ziad Bakri, Zain Al Rafeea, Riman Al Rafeea

Rating: 2.5/5

The specs

Engine: 6.2-litre supercharged V8

Power: 712hp at 6,100rpm

Torque: 881Nm at 4,800rpm

Transmission: 8-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 19.6 l/100km

Price: Dh380,000

On sale: now 

What are the GCSE grade equivalents?
 
  • Grade 9 = above an A*
  • Grade 8 = between grades A* and A
  • Grade 7 = grade A
  • Grade 6 = just above a grade B
  • Grade 5 = between grades B and C
  • Grade 4 = grade C
  • Grade 3 = between grades D and E
  • Grade 2 = between grades E and F
  • Grade 1 = between grades F and G
THE SIXTH SENSE

Starring: Bruce Willis, Toni Collette, Hayley Joel Osment

Director: M. Night Shyamalan

Rating: 5/5

T20 World Cup Qualifier

October 18 – November 2

Opening fixtures

Friday, October 18

ICC Academy: 10am, Scotland v Singapore, 2.10pm, Netherlands v Kenya

Zayed Cricket Stadium: 2.10pm, Hong Kong v Ireland, 7.30pm, Oman v UAE

UAE squad

Ahmed Raza (captain), Rohan Mustafa, Ashfaq Ahmed, Rameez Shahzad, Darius D’Silva, Mohammed Usman, Mohammed Boota, Zawar Farid, Ghulam Shabber, Junaid Siddique, Sultan Ahmed, Imran Haider, Waheed Ahmed, Chirag Suri, Zahoor Khan

Players out: Mohammed Naveed, Shaiman Anwar, Qadeer Ahmed

Players in: Junaid Siddique, Darius D’Silva, Waheed Ahmed

Disclaimer

Director: Alfonso Cuaron 

Stars: Cate Blanchett, Kevin Kline, Lesley Manville 

Rating: 4/5

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MATCH INFO

Uefa Champions League semi-finals, second leg:

Liverpool (0) v Barcelona (3), Tuesday, 11pm UAE

Game is on BeIN Sports

HEADLINE HERE
  • I would recommend writing out the text in the body 
  • And then copy into this box
  • It can be as long as you link
  • But I recommend you use the bullet point function (see red square)
  • Or try to keep the word count down
  • Be wary of other embeds lengthy fact boxes could crash into 
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RESULTS
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Citizenship-by-investment programmes

United Kingdom

The UK offers three programmes for residency. The UK Overseas Business Representative Visa lets you open an overseas branch office of your existing company in the country at no extra investment. For the UK Tier 1 Innovator Visa, you are required to invest £50,000 (Dh238,000) into a business. You can also get a UK Tier 1 Investor Visa if you invest £2 million, £5m or £10m (the higher the investment, the sooner you obtain your permanent residency).

All UK residency visas get approved in 90 to 120 days and are valid for 3 years. After 3 years, the applicant can apply for extension of another 2 years. Once they have lived in the UK for a minimum of 6 months every year, they are eligible to apply for permanent residency (called Indefinite Leave to Remain). After one year of ILR, the applicant can apply for UK passport.

The Caribbean

Depending on the country, the investment amount starts from $100,000 (Dh367,250) and can go up to $400,000 in real estate. From the date of purchase, it will take between four to five months to receive a passport. 

Portugal

The investment amount ranges from €350,000 to €500,000 (Dh1.5m to Dh2.16m) in real estate. From the date of purchase, it will take a maximum of six months to receive a Golden Visa. Applicants can apply for permanent residency after five years and Portuguese citizenship after six years.

“Among European countries with residency programmes, Portugal has been the most popular because it offers the most cost-effective programme to eventually acquire citizenship of the European Union without ever residing in Portugal,” states Veronica Cotdemiey of Citizenship Invest.

Greece

The real estate investment threshold to acquire residency for Greece is €250,000, making it the cheapest real estate residency visa scheme in Europe. You can apply for residency in four months and citizenship after seven years.

Spain

The real estate investment threshold to acquire residency for Spain is €500,000. You can apply for permanent residency after five years and citizenship after 10 years. It is not necessary to live in Spain to retain and renew the residency visa permit.

Cyprus

Cyprus offers the quickest route to citizenship of a European country in only six months. An investment of €2m in real estate is required, making it the highest priced programme in Europe.

Malta

The Malta citizenship by investment programme is lengthy and investors are required to contribute sums as donations to the Maltese government. The applicant must either contribute at least €650,000 to the National Development & Social Fund. Spouses and children are required to contribute €25,000; unmarried children between 18 and 25 and dependent parents must contribute €50,000 each.

The second step is to make an investment in property of at least €350,000 or enter a property rental contract for at least €16,000 per annum for five years. The third step is to invest at least €150,000 in bonds or shares approved by the Maltese government to be kept for at least five years.

Candidates must commit to a minimum physical presence in Malta before citizenship is granted. While you get residency in two months, you can apply for citizenship after a year.

Egypt 

A one-year residency permit can be bought if you purchase property in Egypt worth $100,000. A three-year residency is available for those who invest $200,000 in property, and five years for those who purchase property worth $400,000.

Source: Citizenship Invest and Aqua Properties

PROFILE

Name: Enhance Fitness 

Year started: 2018 

Based: UAE 

Employees: 200 

Amount raised: $3m 

Investors: Global Ventures and angel investors 

Updated: August 21, 2024, 10:02 AM