Just eight kilometres off the emirate of Abu Dhabi’s western coastline, Desert Islands Resort & Spa offers lavish, locally-inspired rooms and suites that evoke the island’s captivating setting through original art and Middle Eastern fabrics. In close proximity to the beach, all accommodation options provide the most modern luxuries and comforts to complement the exciting adventures that shape the Desert Islands experience.

When not pampering themselves in the distinguished Safaa spa or sipping fresh fruit mixes poolside, guests are encouraged to take advantage of innumerable activity options on Sir Bani Yas Island. Embark on an exploration of the Arabian National Park, an impassioned and successful conservation effort, often referred to as the ‘Arabian Ark’ for its biodiversity. Slip on your mask and fins and dive into the coral reefs, weaving through extensive limestone deposits that host a wealth of marine life.

Gaining fuel for such adventures is as exceptional as the rest of the Desert Islands experience. Five dining venues present a range of culinary treats, including an International and Middle Eastern breakfast buffet at the all-day dining restaurant and seafood feasts, prepared to perfection at our Seafood Grille. Families can even order specially prepared sandwiches at our Delicatessen to take with them on a day’s journey.

Discover the mystique of the Arabian Gulf. Explore the natural world on land or at sea. Soak up the beauty of a thriving island paradise in a way only Anantara can provide.

Discover Desert Islands Resort & Spa

Experience Promotions

Faces of Anantara

“My name is Nasrulla Thoha. I am from Maldives. When I joined Fuddan Restaurant at Anantara, it was the first time I saw so many types of salt. Each one had something special about it. As I learned and discovered more, I wanted our guests to also taste these salts to pair them perfectly with the fine cuisine from our menu. So I took up the challenge of becoming a salt sommelier! That marked the start of my passion for salt. It has been a journey – through fascinating flavours – that has taught me all about the faraway places where these salts come from…

Guests are normally amazed to learn about the different kinds of salt, and listen very attentively to my explanations. Most of them have never heard of these salts. I really enjoy sharing my knowledge, and try to make their meals memorable and enjoyable. My favorite is a smoked salish salt from Washington. It goes well with most of the grilled food served in the restaurant, especially red meats. The smoked flavour of alder wood makes it quite unique. Because of its origins, many guests associate it with President Bush, and would ask for ‘Bush Salt’ during the rest of their stay. Another personal favorite is smoked salt from Bali, which enhances the taste of our local tuna very well, prepared with coconut and kaffir lime.

Each of the salts has a very interesting story, and is different in the way they complement the subtle flavours of dishes. Pink Peruvian salt, for example, is not a sea salt as most people assume, but a natural spring salt found in the lakes of the Andes mountains in Peru. It has a strong flavour and is excellent for seasoning. Many chefs like using this salt as it adds considerably to the flavour of the food.

Being a salt sommelier is a wonderful opportunity for me to meet and interact with guests coming to the restaurant, and to learn about their likes and dislikes. From the feedback we receive I know that many people remember me and their discovery of salt long after they’ve returned home. My work is not a very common trade or service offered in many restaurants. It sets us apart here at Anantara, and makes what I do unique. Salt has opened my eyes to new experiences, and sharing that with others has given me a special purpose. I’m so proud of that and I could never look at salt in the same way again…”

Please learn more about Fuddan Grill and other restaurants at Anantara Resort Dhigu, Maldives here

A perfectly paired wine makes a meal extraordinary. Vintage years, tannins and ratings aside, the enjoyment of wine is a highly personal affair. Tune into the blog of Anantara’s Wine Guru, and learn his expertise, tips, musings and reflections on the drink that has enchanted civilizations for millennia.

Which restaurant at which Anantara Resort received the prestigious Wine Spectator award for its fine cuisine and extensive wine list?

Submit your answer to competition@anantara.com to enter your chance to win! *

Congratulations to Joyce Groucutt of Manchester, England, the winner from the first issue of Anantara Discoveries. We hope you have an inspired stay with us at Anantara Hua Hin!

Include the answer, your full name, email, address and phone number. The winner is entitled to two free nights at Anantara Koh Samui in a Deluxe Room and may bring one guest free of charge.

Conditions: The competition is open to all persons 18 years of age or older, other than employees of Anantara. The competition closes on May 16, 2008 and entries received thereafter will be ineligible. Prize awards are final and not applicable to airfare, other travel-related or third party expenses (which are payable by the winner) and is not subject to a cash alternative, exchange or substitution. The prize is valid for stays until December 31, 2008. Advance bookings are required, bookings are subject to availability and blackout dates apply. Other conditions may apply. No purchase is necessary to enter, and winners will be notified in the July issue. Please indicate on your entry form if you do not wish for your details to be distributed to third parties other than Anantara.