Abu Dhabi Retreat Expands with Experiences for Rest and Reflection
In 2025, Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat, located along the Arabian Gulf, expanded its wellness programme, available to both in-house guests and the general public. New offerings include Full Moon Ceremonies, held monthly, which feature guided meditation, breathwork, fire rituals, and cacao tasting. These sessions aim to help participants find emotional balance and mental clarity through engaging in group activities.
Every week, the retreat hosts "Santorini Sundays," which begin with gentle yoga accompanied by live handpan music and conclude with a seaside breakfast. Activities such as intuitive painting or journaling are available for guests, providing a chance for introspection. These activities may appeal to travelers looking for a slower pace, and may be particularly relevant for solo visitors or those on short stays.
Other new offerings include daily mindfulness films in the retreat’s private cinema and a workshop on Arabic perfume-making, where participants can create their own fragrance blends using traditional ingredients like oud, musk, and rose. These activities resonate with the expanding trend of experiential travel, which centers on sensory involvement and cultural ties.
A variety of locations close by provide further chances for visitors to explore the region. Al Mirfa Beach, located a short distance from the retreat, offers a quiet shoreline ideal for peaceful walks and observing coastal wildlife. Cultural landmarks such as Qasr Al Muwaiji in Al Ain, a historic fort and former royal residence, offer insight into the region’s past. The Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi, which highlights traditional Emirati culture, provides another opportunity to explore local heritage.
These additions reflect a broader shift in the travel industry, where short trips are increasingly viewed as opportunities for rest and personal development. Rather than packed schedules and fast-paced itineraries, travelers are increasingly drawn to experiences that prioritize depth, introspection, and well-being. Abu Dhabi’s increasing focus on wellness tourism reflects this shift, providing alternatives to conventional travel.