[ad_1]
Eco-friendly resorts and hotels in the UAE are part of a major movement towards sustainable tourism. Going “green” means adopting practices that minimize environmental impact, such as using renewable energy, conserving water, reducing waste, and using sustainable building materials.
In the United Arab Emirates, a region historically marked by rapid development, green initiatives in the hospitality sector mean a growing commitment to environmental protection. This approach is vital to preserving the area’s unique desert landscapes and natural resources.
These eco-friendly establishments often combine sustainability with elements of local culture, offering an experience that is both environmentally conscious and culturally rich. They could include energy-saving technologies, water recycling systems and support for local conservation projects.
By choosing eco-friendly accommodation, visitors to the UAE contribute to a more sustainable tourism model that respects the natural world while enjoying the distinctive character of the region.
Here is a list of some of the best eco-friendly hotels and resorts in the United Arab Emirates:
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa in Dubai, exemplifies eco-luxury within a protected nature reserve. Integral to an ecotourism project, it emphasizes the preservation of the desert ecology. More than 6,000 native trees and various wildlife species, including the Arabian oryx, enhance its conservation efforts. The resort is committed to reducing water and energy consumption and minimizing food waste, earning the Eco Luxury Retreats of the World certification.
Located in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Maha Resort offers a serene guests-only oasis amidst lush palm groves and golden dunes, with stunning views of the plains and Hajar Mountains. Guests can enjoy activities such as horse riding, camel riding and nature walks.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of the resort’s operations. It uses materials such as date palm leaves, LED lighting, solar panels and water recycling systems. Additionally, the complex is dedicated to preserving the Bedouin heritage of the UAE and houses a collection of more than 2,000 artifacts and antiquities.
The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah
The Chedi Al Bait in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, is a leading example of sustainable luxury hospitality. This resort operates its own portable water filtration plant, producing mineral-infused water for guests and staff, packaged in sanitized glass bottles. The resort’s dedication to environmental preservation is further underscored by its Tesla charging station, which promotes green transportation, and its partnership with a local waste management company to recycle glass, cardboard, plastic and cooking oil .
In particular, the resort has eliminated the use of plastic, as exemplified by its unique water drop-shaped glass sculpture for housekeeping signs and metal room keys. Their aggressive stance against plastic includes an on-site water filtration system, resulting in attractive bottled water, sales of which support charitable causes.
Al Bait Sharjah’s commitment to a zero waste policy involves recycling all food waste for landscaping purposes. Energy conservation is also a priority, with measures such as air conditioning presets and timers to reduce consumption.
The resort’s spa stands out for using only Halal-certified organic products, free of harmful chemicals, ensuring a health-conscious experience. This commitment to sustainability extends to the use of vegan and organic products in their nail treatments.
Architecturally, the hotel combines heritage and luxury, with rooms built on the foundations of old Sharjah houses, with traditional designs and modern amenities. The recent expansion adds 12 rooms and suites, reflecting the traditional Emirati aesthetic and offering exclusive amenities such as private pools and jacuzzis.
Chedi Al Bait’s efforts in sustainable hospitality have been recognized with the Modama Green Hotel & Resort award, aligning with the UAE’s vision for sustainable development. This resort not only minimizes its environmental impact but also enriches the guest experience with cultural heritage and luxurious comfort.
Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara, Abu Dhabi
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa Desert is a luxury retreat that harmoniously combines luxury with nature and sustainability. The resort has taken significant steps towards environmental conservation, including phasing out plastic water bottles in favor of biodegradable bottles made from plant resin and eliminating plastic straws since 2018. Using renewable energy, solar panels of the complex generate hot water for the rooms and villas. , reducing the use of conventional energy by up to 80% and saving approximately 97,000 kW/h per month.
The resort’s commitment to zero waste is evident in its kitchens, where compost made on site is used for a vegetable greenhouse and herb garden, providing organic produce for the resort’s menus. Greywater recycling is used to water gardens and materials such as cardboard, oil, paper and soap are recycled. Guests are encouraged to minimize waste and consumption, and electric car charging stations are available for environmentally conscious travelers.
Qasr Al Sarab’s sustainable practices have earned it Gold-level Green Growth 2050 Certification and Green Globe Certification for its energy-saving architecture and environmental efforts. The resort’s initiative extends to supporting local wildlife conservation, including the reintroduction project of the Arabian oryx and sand gazelle in collaboration with the government.
In addition to its eco-friendly efforts, the resort offers a luxurious and authentic desert experience, with traditional Arabian-style rooms and suites, a spa with local treatments, and activities such as camel riding and falconry. The Ezba Cultural Center within the grounds of the complex is an educational and cultural center that highlights the sustainable traditions and practices of the Emirates. Qasr Al Sarab is on a mission to become the greenest desert resort in the world, emphasizing “sustainable luxury” in all aspects of its operation.
Andaz Dubai La Palma
Andaz Dubai The Palm is a lifestyle boutique hotel that emphasizes sustainability and fresh, organic dining experiences. The hotel operates an in-house container farm that uses hydroponic techniques to grow a variety of produce, including salad greens, herbs, microgreens and edible flowers. This method is very efficient, using 90% less water than traditional farming and also reduces carbon emissions associated with transportation.
Produce from the farm is used in the hotel’s restaurants, including The Locale and Hanami, ensuring guests enjoy meals prepared with the freshest ingredients. This initiative is part of Andaz’s broader commitment to sustainability, which includes a partnership with GCAF, a member of the AlSerkal Group, to further enhance its green approach.
In addition to the hydroponic farm, Andaz Dubai The Palm has implemented other eco-friendly practices. The hotel eliminated single-use plastics, adopted sustainable alternatives and introduced a paperless initiative across all departments. Room amenities are sustainably packaged and sourced locally, and eco-friendly detergents are used for housekeeping. The hotel’s fragrance is created in collaboration with a family of perfumers based in the United Arab Emirates, emphasizing local partnerships.
The hotel also employs energy-saving measures such as wooden guest room entry cards, motion detectors for street lighting, and eco-friendly temperature controls.
Jumeirah Al Naseem
Jumeirah Al Naseem, part of the Madinat Jumeirah luxury resort in Dubai, exemplifies sustainable hospitality with its strong focus on environmental conservation and social responsibility. The hotel has implemented several key sustainable practices including recycling, water conservation, elimination of single-use plastics, advanced food waste management systems and optimized energy use with smart building management systems and bedrooms.
A notable feature of Jumeirah Al Naseem is its commitment to wildlife preservation, particularly through the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP). The resort is home to a unique turtle lagoon, a state-of-the-art sanctuary that cares for sick and injured sea turtles. This facility plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of these marine animals, with more than 2,000 turtles rescued and released into UAE waters since the project’s inception in 2004. The hotel also participates in educational outreach activities and organizes workshops that raise awareness about marine biology and the challenges they face. sea turtles worldwide.
In terms of construction and operation, Jumeirah Al Naseem adheres to sustainable design principles. This includes the use of green building materials, efficient insulation systems and maximizing natural light to reduce energy consumption. The hotel’s restaurants prioritize sustainable dining practices, sourcing local and organic ingredients, and minimizing food waste through careful planning and portion control.
It is encouraging to see these UAE hotels and resorts adopting sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. Their efforts in recycling, energy conservation, wildlife preservation, and single-use plastic reduction demonstrate a commendable commitment to environmental stewardship. These initiatives not only enhance the guest experience but also contribute significantly to the broader global movement towards sustainable tourism.
Also read:
Sun-Drenched Retreats: The Best Beach Resorts in the UAE to Enjoy the Winter Chill
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, a beach holiday in the United Arab Emirates offers it all.
Explore nature at Dubai’s best sustainable tourist attractions
As part of the construction of sustainable tourism, the city has converted much of its territory into conservation reserves to protect the natural habitat of local flora and fauna. These are some of the popular sustainable tourist attractions in Dubai.
UAE hotels set green trends ahead of COP28 – many sustainable benefits await guests
It’s great to see UAE hotels taking such proactive steps towards sustainability in preparation for the UN climate summit, COP28. These innovative initiatives will not only contribute positively to the environment but will also inspire guests to adopt greener practices.
Best Hotels in Downtown Dubai: Address, Movenpick and More
Do you want to stay in the heart of the new Dubai? Do you enjoy the taste of glitz and glamour? Our guide to the best hotels in central Dubai has you covered.
[ad_2]
