Santorini has long been one of the world’s most desired travel destinations, with its iconic whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and views of the Aegean Sea drawing millions of visitors every year. But what if you could experience the same atmosphere of the Greek island without traveling to Greece? That’s exactly the concept behind the Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat, a luxury resort that opened in February 2024 on the coast of the United Arab Emirates. Designed to replicate the look and feel of Santorini, this unique property offers an exclusive Mediterranean-style experience in the middle of the desert, just an hour away from downtown Abu Dhabi.
At first glance, guests arriving at the resort might think they’ve stepped into Greece. The white buildings with their arched corridors and doorways, the beige and blue accents, and the elegant minimalist architecture immediately transport visitors to a Mediterranean fantasy. But a closer look reveals subtle differences: the desert breeze, the Arabic calligraphy on the signage, and the proximity to Abu Dhabi’s turquoise waters and mangroves. It’s a fusion of two worlds—Santorini’s aesthetic charm combined with the natural beauty and exclusivity of the UAE’s coast.
The retreat is designed to be intimate and exclusive, with just 22 rooms that can accommodate a maximum of 44 guests. This limited capacity creates a private and tranquil environment, very different from the crowded streets of Greece’s Santorini during peak tourist season. The general manager, Rachid Bakas, describes the property as a hideaway, offering a sense of intimacy and calm that many travelers struggle to find in popular destinations. While Greece’s Santorini is often packed with tourists in the summer, this Abu Dhabi counterpart is designed for those seeking quiet, privacy, and a luxurious escape.
Of course, exclusivity comes at a price. Rooms at the resort start at around $800 per night, which is almost double the average rate of hotels in Santorini, Greece, during high season. For some travelers, the higher cost might raise the question: why pay more for an imitation when the real Santorini is just a flight away? The answer lies in the experience. The Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat isn’t trying to be a budget-friendly alternative—it’s offering something different. With fewer guests, personalized service, and a carefully crafted atmosphere, it’s marketed as a sanctuary where guests can truly relax without the hustle and bustle of typical tourist hotspots.
The property itself is more than just a place to stay. It’s designed as a destination where guests can immerse themselves in a blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern luxury. The interiors are decorated with bespoke artwork, detailed embroidery on the linens, and ambient music that enhances the serene environment. The overall design emphasizes light, space, and elegance, creating a soothing escape for travelers who want to feel worlds away from their daily lives.
For dining, the resort features two signature restaurants that cater to different culinary experiences. Oia Oasis serves Arabic cuisine, reflecting the regional flavors of the Middle East, while Thalassa offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu, bringing in tastes that align with the Santorini theme. This combination allows guests to explore both Arabic and Greek-inspired dishes without leaving the property. The dining spaces, like the rest of the resort, are designed with attention to detail, offering not only delicious meals but also stunning visual experiences that enhance the overall atmosphere.
Beyond food, the retreat offers a wide range of amenities and experiences. Guests can unwind in the cigar lounge or enjoy movie nights in the onsite cinema. For wellness seekers, the spa provides indulgent treatments, including Moroccan baths, a steam room, and even cryotherapy, where guests are plunged into icy waters for a rejuvenating effect. Yoga sessions by the pool or beach further contribute to the relaxing and holistic environment. The resort balances luxury with calmness, creating an environment where guests can choose between engaging in activities or simply enjoying solitude and tranquility.
One of the defining features of the Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat is its adults-only policy. Guests must be at least 18 years old to check in, even if accompanied by parents. While this decision might exclude families with children, it reinforces the resort’s focus on providing a quiet, peaceful environment for adults seeking an escape. According to Bakas, this was not an easy decision to make, but it aligns with the resort’s vision of being on a different level compared to other properties in the region. By eliminating the potential noise and activity of younger guests, the resort ensures that adults can truly relax, unwind, and recharge in peace.
The exclusivity extends to the design of the rooms as well. Each room leads to a common living area that encourages a sense of community while still maintaining privacy. The layout is intentional, with small surprises waiting around every corner—unique spaces, cozy corners, and architectural details that keep guests engaged and delighted as they explore. For those seeking the ultimate experience, the Royal Santorini Duplex Suite offers luxury on another level, featuring two terraces, sea views, and a walk-in wardrobe.
Maintaining the iconic Santorini look is no small task, especially in the desert environment of Abu Dhabi. The resort’s pristine white walls are a central part of its identity, and keeping them spotless is a daily challenge. To achieve this, the resort employs two dedicated painters whose full-time job is to touch up the walls and ensure they remain perfectly white. Every detail matters, from the strokes of paint to the consistency of color, so that guests always feel they are surrounded by the immaculate white charm of Santorini. Preventive maintenance is a critical part of the operation, reflecting the property’s commitment to excellence and authenticity.
The location of the resort further strengthens its appeal. Situated along the UAE’s coast, it offers views of the sea that complement the Santorini-inspired architecture. As Bakas points out, the color of the sea connects the concept to its Greek inspiration, making the illusion even more convincing. Combined with Abu Dhabi’s natural beauty, including its nearby mangroves and coastal landscapes, the resort provides a setting that feels both exotic and familiar. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean-style surroundings while also appreciating the unique environment of the Arabian Gulf.
While replicas of famous destinations are not unusual, they are rarely positioned as luxury experiences. Many such imitations end up being commercialized or touristy, often compared to places like Chinatown or Disneyland. However, the Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat breaks away from that mold. Instead of being a kitschy imitation, it is marketed as an upscale sanctuary, carefully blending authenticity with exclusivity. Its success lies in creating an environment that feels unique, even though it is inspired by somewhere else.
For travelers in the Middle East, the resort provides a convenient alternative to flying to Greece. It caters to those who want a Mediterranean escape without the long journey, offering the look and feel of Santorini just a short drive from Abu Dhabi’s downtown. For international visitors, it adds a new dimension to UAE tourism, showcasing the country’s ability to create world-class destinations that rival some of the world’s most famous spots.
Ultimately, the Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat represents more than just an imitation of Greece’s iconic island. It is a reflection of how luxury travel is evolving, focusing not only on location but also on experience. Travelers today are seeking privacy, tranquility, and personalized service—elements that this resort has carefully integrated into its identity. By combining the visual appeal of Santorini with the exclusivity of a boutique property in Abu Dhabi, the resort offers something that the real Santorini often struggles with: peace and space.
In a world where many destinations are overcrowded with tourists, this property stands out as a rare find. It’s not about replacing the real Santorini but about offering a new interpretation of it, one that prioritizes relaxation, luxury, and exclusivity. For those who can afford it, the Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat offers a chance to experience the beauty of Santorini without the crowds, blending the charm of Greece with the sophistication of the UAE. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a wellness retreat, or simply a luxurious escape, this unique property delivers an unforgettable experience that feels both familiar and extraordinary.
