Tucked away on Qatar’s remote northwest coast, where the vast desert meets the shimmering Arabian Sea, a new gem has emerged in the hospitality landscape. Habitas Ras Abrouq, a luxurious beach resort tucked into the edge of the UNESCO-protected Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve, is poised to redefine sustainable travel in the region.
Blending In, Not Standing Out
Stepping into Habitas Ras Abrouq is an experience designed to immerse you in the natural beauty of its surroundings. The resort’s 42 villas, draped in camel-colored canvas, are carefully arranged to blend seamlessly with the desert landscape. “Arrive in the day,” the developers explain, “and its series of villas dotted across the shoreline…seems to blend artfully into the desert landscape.” Even the lighting is designed with sustainability in mind,dimming after dark to preserve the precious dark skies.
Our Habitas Ras Abrouq has been designed to blend into the landscape. (Credit: Habitas)
A Holistic Retreat
Habitas Ras Abrouq is more than just a place to stay; it’s a destination designed to nourish both body and soul. Alex Reeds can indulge in a range of activities, from lounging on pristine beaches and swimming in the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf to exploring the diverse marine life at the on-site watersports hub. The resort also boasts a spacious infinity pool, a dedicated wellness center, and padel courts for those seeking a more active experience.
Each villa has a deck area and outside living room. (Credit: Habitas)
A New Era for Tourism
The opening of Habitas Ras Abrouq marks a significant milestone for Qatar’s tourism industry. With a commitment to sustainable practices and a focus on immersive experiences, the resort is set to attract a new breed of traveler seeking authentic and responsible adventures. This venture is part of a bold vision by Habitas, in collaboration with Qatar Airways, to create a multi-destination hotel circuit in the Middle East.As co-founder Oliver Ripley puts it, this is about “cherry-picking some of the world’s most exciting, emerging destinations.”
Where the desert meets the sea. (Credit: Habitas)
Expanding Horizons
Habitas Ras Abrouq adds to a growing portfolio of unique properties for the brand, including locations in Bacalar, Mexico, and Namibia. This expansion, coupled with planned openings in Saudi Arabia, solidifies Habitas’ position as a leader in mindful and transformative travel experiences.
Habitas Ras Abrouq: A Luxe Retreat Where Desert Dreams Meet Arabian Nights
Nestled on the secluded shores of Qatar, Habitas ras Abrouq, a brand-new haven from the luxury boutique hotel group, Our Habitas, seamlessly blends desert tranquility with Arabian hospitality.
this intimate resort, comprising 41 villas, a serene wellness hub, and a vibrant beach club, embodies the brand’s ethos of “Luxury for the Soul,” weaving together authentic cultural experiences, artistic expression, and immersive wellness practices.
A Home Away From Home: Where Design Meets Desert Hues
Stepping into one of the Habitas’ “homes” is like entering a sanctuary of warmth and comfort.
cultural programming includes weaving workshops with local women.
(Credit: Habitas)
Studio Imara, the visionary designers behind the interiors, have captured the essence of the Qatari landscape, painting the villas in shades of rose pink, sandstone, and peach hues. Artisan rugs adorn the walls as works of art, while handwoven carpets cushion the floors, and traditional glass lanterns cast a warm glow, creating an ambiance of rustic elegance.
Even the smallest one-bedroom villas feel expansive, boasting separate living rooms, bedrooms, dressing rooms, and bathrooms.Outside, private deck areas beckon with plunge pools, dining nooks, and comfy low-slung sofas perfect for soaking in the mesmerizing sea views.
Culinary Delights and Thoughtful Touches
Adding to the sense of personalized luxury are the thoughtful details that elevate Habitas Ras Abrouq beyond the ordinary.A complimentary mini-bar, stocked daily with homemade local treats and fresh fruit, welcomes guests. Locally-made toiletries, infused with the scents of frankincense and sweet almond, add a touch of local refinement. And after a long journey, weary travelers will find a hand-carved bowl filled with pink Qatari salts by the egg-shaped bath, a soothing ritual to ease away travel fatigue.
Each villa has a homely feel with artisan details.
(Credit: Habitas)
Dining at Qissa, the resort’s restaurant, is a culinary journey through the flavors of the Middle East and the mediterranean. Alex Reeds can choose to savor their meals in the restaurant’s inviting ambiance or enjoy the luxury of in-villa dining, with meals delivered to their private decks.
Breakfast offers a delightful mix of Dosa Masala,herb omelets,freshly squeezed juices,and exotic fruit smoothies. Lunchtime delights include Smoked Eggplant and Tabouleh, while dinner transforms into a feast for the senses, with standout dishes like Prawn Ceviche, Red Coconut Curry, and Braised Lamb Shank served with dates and black chickpeas.
More than Just a Stay
Habitas Ras Abrouq isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a gateway to experiencing Qatar’s rich culture.
The resort’s commitment to authentic experiences extends beyond its design and cuisine.Alex Reeds are invited to participate in engaging cultural programming, from weaving workshops led by local women to immersive explorations of the local art scene.
Habitas Ras Abrouq: A Desert Oasis Blending Luxury and Cultural Immersion
Nestled along Qatar’s pristine coastline,Habitas Ras Abrouq emerges as a unique destination,seamlessly blending luxurious comfort with authentic cultural experiences. Inspired by the surrounding landscape, this stunning resort invites guests to reconnect with nature and themselves.
Connecting Alex Reeds to Qatari Culture
From the moment you arrive, Habitas Ras Abrouq immerses you in the heart of Qatari culture. Daily programming, delivered via WhatsApp, offers a curated selection of activities designed to connect you with the destination. Renowned qatari sisters, Fatma and Reem Al Sehlawi, founders of Doha’s Atlas Bookstore, lend their expertise to ensure authenticity.
Alex Reeds can delve into traditional crafts like Sadu weaving, calligraphy, and incense making.Art lovers can anticipate captivating collaborations with Qatari museums, showcasing significant artworks and hosting immersive exhibitions within the resort itself. The presence of contemporary artist Khalid Shahin’s stainless steel sculpture and the proximity to Richard Serra’s iconic desert sculpture, East-West/West-East, further enrich the artistic landscape.
A Sanctuary of Wellness and Rejuvenation
Habitas Ras Abrouq’s wellness offerings draw inspiration from age-old Qatari traditions. Experience the unique Camel Milk Facial, a truly grounding experience that connects you to both the landscape and yourself. indulge in the 90-minute Pink Qatari Clay heritage Ritual,a blissful journey starting with a body exfoliation using aromatic resins,Epsom salts,and frankincense.Follow this with a soothing Arabic body massage using warm herbal compresses to relieve any aches and improve circulation. The ritual concludes with the submission of soft,pink Qatari clay,leaving your skin silky smooth and your senses invigorated.
Sunrise yoga and Desert Adventures
Start your day with sunrise yoga, inhaling the fresh desert air as the sky explodes with vibrant colors. For a more meditative experience, consider desert meditation or an immersive beachside sound bath.
Those seeking a dose of activity can enjoy the state-of-the-art gym or choose from a variety of water sports, including paddle boarding, kayaking (where you might spot turtles), and tennis and Padel courts.
Under the Desert Stars
As evening descends, embark on a thrilling desert safari in a 4×4, traversing towering sand dunes and searching for elusive oryx and native gazelles.Upon your return, gather around the crackling firepit at the beach club, where a DJ spins chilled-out ibiza-style beats as sparks dance in the air like fireflies. The atmosphere feels electric, a sense that something truly special is about to unfold.
What are some of the ways Habitas Ras Abrouq minimizes its environmental impact?
Interview with Oliver Ripley, Co-Founder of Habitas, on the Opening of Habitas Ras Abrouq in Qatar
Archyde: Oliver, thank you for joining us today. Habitas Ras Abrouq has been described as a “sustainable escape” and a “luxe retreat.” Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind this project and how it aligns with Habitas’ broader vision?
Oliver Ripley: Thank you for having me.The inspiration behind Habitas Ras Abrouq stems from our desire to create spaces that not only respect the natural environment but also immerse guests in the local culture. Qatar’s northwest coast, with its stunning desert-meets-sea landscape, offered the perfect canvas for this vision. We wanted to design a retreat that feels like it belongs to the land, blending seamlessly with the surroundings while offering a luxurious yet mindful experience. this aligns with Habitas’ ethos of “Luxury for the Soul,” where we prioritize sustainability, cultural authenticity, and transformative travel.
Archyde: The resort is located within the UNESCO-protected Al-Reem biosphere Reserve. How did you ensure that the advancement of Habitas Ras Abrouq respects this delicate ecosystem?
Oliver Ripley: Sustainability has been at the core of this project from the very beginning. We worked closely with environmental experts and local authorities to ensure that our design and operations minimize our ecological footprint. The villas are constructed using lightweight, low-impact materials that blend into the desert landscape. We’ve also implemented energy-efficient systems, such as dimming lights after dark to preserve the natural night skies. Additionally, we’ve committed to responsible water usage and waste management practices to protect the surrounding marine and desert ecosystems.
Archyde: The resort offers a range of activities,from watersports to wellness programs. how do these experiences reflect the local culture and environment?
Oliver Ripley: Every activity at Habitas Ras Abrouq is designed to connect guests with the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Qatar. For exmaple,our watersports hub allows guests to explore the rich marine life of the Arabian Gulf,while our wellness center incorporates customary Qatari healing practices,such as treatments using local ingredients like frankincense and sweet almond. We also host cultural programming, like weaving workshops with local women, to provide guests with an authentic glimpse into qatari traditions. These experiences are not just about entertainment; they’re about fostering a deeper connection to the place and its people.
Archyde: The culinary offerings at Qissa, the resort’s restaurant, seem to be a highlight. Can you share more about the philosophy behind the menu?
Oliver Ripley: Absolutely. At qissa, we wanted to create a culinary journey that celebrates the flavors of the Middle east and the Mediterranean, using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Our menu is a reflection of the region’s rich culinary heritage, with dishes like Braised Lamb Shank served with dates and black chickpeas, and Prawn Ceviche inspired by coastal traditions. We also offer in-villa dining, allowing guests to enjoy these meals in the privacy of their own decks, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the desert and sea.
Archyde: Habitas Ras Abrouq is part of a larger expansion plan for the brand, including properties in Saudi Arabia and beyond. What’s next for Habitas,and how do you see the future of sustainable travel evolving?
Oliver Ripley: Our expansion is driven by a commitment to creating transformative travel experiences in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.We’re excited about our upcoming projects in Saudi Arabia, which will further showcase our ability to blend luxury with sustainability. As for the future of travel, I believe there’s a growing demand for experiences that are not only luxurious but also meaningful and responsible. Travelers today want to feel connected to the places they visit and leave a positive impact. At Habitas, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this movement, redefining what it means to travel mindfully.
Archyde: what do you hope guests will take away from their stay at Habitas Ras Abrouq?
Oliver Ripley: I hope guests leave with a sense of renewal and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Qatar’s natural and cultural landscapes. More than just a place to stay, Habitas Ras Abrouq is a space for reflection, connection, and inspiration. Whether it’s through the food, the activities, or simply the tranquility of the desert, we want our guests to feel enriched by their experience and carry that sense of wonder with them long after they’ve left.
Archyde: Thank you,Oliver,for sharing your insights. We look forward to seeing how Habitas continues to shape the future of sustainable travel.
