DUBAI-: This Eid-al Adha, guests are invited to discover one of the region’s most loved escapes, Six Senses Zighy Bay. GCC residents can enjoy the leisurely 2-hour drive from Dubai before exploring a host of unique experiences within the hotel’s natural playground.
Whether it’s a Kaiseki style dinner on the most remarkable hilltop, a stay in the largest villa of its kind in the Middle East, a host of exciting water-led activities to keep cool in the summer heat, or completely resetting the mind, body and soul at the resort’s award-winning spa, there is so much to be done over the long weekend.
Here are 10 reasons why guests should visit Six Senses Zighy Bay during Eid Al Adha:
- Explore The Retreat & The Reserve
For multi-generational family vacations, getaways with friends, or a very private escape, large groups or families can enjoy the three-bedroom Retreats and premium four-bedroom Private Reserve at Six Senses Zighy Bay.
Each palace of wonder provides comfort, seclusion, and masses of space with a touch of Arabian culture, all just a step and a splash away from the Gulf of Oman. Tucked away at the tip of Zighy Bay between the tranquil Musandam Mountains and emerald sea, The Private Reserve is a four-bedroom villa equipped with a kitchen, a colossal living and dining space, and a recreation room featuring an oversized pool table, a private bar, and a cinema. At 32,2912 square feet (3,000 square meters), it has four separate villas serving as bedrooms within the enclave of the property – all with ensuite indoor and outdoor showers. An oversized infinity pool with a view that stretches right across the bay sits majestically in the front of the villa. The Private Reserve comes with private quarters for a nanny or other dedicated host when required.
The Retreats were converted from two- to three-bedroom Omani-style villas and are located at each end of the beach. Measuring at 12,077 square feet (1,122 square meters), the villas provide ample social spaces, including a lounge, dining area with a private bar, indoor and outdoor living areas, and an infinity-edge pool with beachfront sunbeds, making it the perfect villa for special family reunions, celebrations with friends, or simply a weekend getaway luxuriating in one’s own company.
- Set Sail on the Dhahab
Six Senses Zighy Bay takes to the seas for its out-of-the-ordinary escapade. The recently refurbished Dhahab – meaning gold in Arabic –offers one- or two-night voyages for the ultimate sea-hotel adventure.
Guests can explore the dramatic coastline and fjords of Musandam aboard a traditional, hand-crafted Omani dhow. From mornings exploring quaint fishing villages unaffected by the passing of time to afternoons cruising azure waters boasting some of the world’s most famous diving sites and evenings watching the sunset flicker over the Hajar Mountains, there’s never a dull moment on board. The beautifully designed 90-foot (27.5-meter) vessel features three bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms to accommodate up to six people.
- Go on a snorkeling trip with an international diver
The Musandam Peninsula is known for its rich marine life and pristine waters. With experienced hosts to guide guests, there is no reason not to explore the mystical waters and go for a snorkel, and if the weather permits, there is a chance to visit a big overhead cave along the coast of Sanat.
- Immerse yourself in the local lifestyle by sea
This private or shared speed boat tour will turn back time to Omani yesteryear, and showcase local lifestyle and livelihood that first thrived in this region. Guests can take a leisurely swim when the boat is moored in local bays and enjoy the striking views of the small fishing villages carved into the Al Hajar Mountains. The 2-hour experience will also include a stop off at Dibba Port fish market, where fresh fish trading is still a traditional way of life.
- Uncover Omani marine life on a Scuba Diving trip
The Gulf of Oman has become an increasingly important diving destination, and the breathtaking Musandam Peninsula is blessed with an incredible underwater world. Guests can expect beautiful hard and soft coral reefs that attract a wide variety of marine life eager to feed on the plankton-rich waters. Whether a first time or an experienced diver, the resort’s expert dive school called, Extra Divers, will assist throughout the whole aquatic journey. Omani scuba diving is something not to be missed, and as part of the experience, guests can expect a generous refreshing fruit platter for a one-take dive, or lunch for two tank dives.
- Learn about Omani Sea Turtles & Marine Conservation on a snorkeling trip
Zighy Bay is home to many marine species, including the endangered Green Turtle. In collaboration with Olive Ridley Project, Six Senses Zighy Bay continuously researches the local population of sea turtles, their habitat use, and their residency within its bay. However, in order to fully protect this species, threats such as trash and discarded or lost fishing gear floating at sea, known as ‘ghost nets’, must be removed.
In partnership with the Ministry of Environment, the resort’s hosts successfully removed 34 ghost nets and 3700 kilograms of trash from the ocean in 2022. Guests and local community members are invited to learn about the marine life during snorkeling trips or turtle talks by the resort’s on-site marine biologist, or by joining one of the hotel’s regular beach clean-ups.
- Discover Hand Line Fishing in Oman
Guests can cast their line and try their luck under the watchful eye of the resort’s best fishermen, who will demonstrate the art of Omani handline fishing firsthand. The whole family can bask in the Arabian sun, float in the opal waters of the Gulf and enjoy this traditional and memorable pastime by private or shared charter. Six Senses Zighy Bay’s chefs will then cook the fresh catch of the day to each diner’s liking that evening.
- Enjoy a Moroccan Hammam
The resort’s multi-award-winning spa only uses cultural and ethically produced products, combined with traditional and locally inspired practices led by the onsite Wellness Director and visiting practitioners.
Focused on cleansing and refreshing the body, spa enthusiasts can experience a traditional Moroccan treatment which includes a warm herbal steam, body wash with a black soap and gentle exfoliation, followed by the application of purifying rasoul clay enriched with seven fragrant herbs. After rinsing, body milk is applied, leaving the skin supple and enriched.
- Reset your mind, body and soul with one of the resort’s wellness packages
Those looking to complete reset and relax are invited to experience the resort’s one-day wellness treatments. Mind Your Brain, Boost Your Immunity and Love Your Heart, are the latest addition to Six Senses Zighy Bay’s revitalizing menu of wellness escapes, in addition to long therapies and a dedicated summer menu designed to nurture guests’ health and wellbeing, with bespoke schedules throughout the day, carefully curated for the mind and body.
Pioneering experts, doctors, and practitioners, along with a unique blend of high-tech science and therapies, all delivered with Six Senses’ renowned personalised approach, await at the scenic resort, ready to guide visitors as they move towards the path to ultimate well-being.
- A gastronomic journey awaits guests
Under Executive Chef Sébastien Pinson’s direction, culinary excellence is at the heart of Six Senses Zighy Bay, offering assorted flavors and unparalleled experiences. From authentic Arabian delicacies at the Spice Market or a traditional Bedouin experience on Shua Shack’s beach, a Kaiseki style dinner on Sense on the Edge’s hilltop, or a fulfilling locally sourced three course meal at Summer House, the resort is the ideal gastronomic fantasy.