An Eid Aladha Journey: Desert, Island, Riviera
- the EDIT staff
- May 31
- 3 min read
Explore three extraordinary destinations that elevate celebration into art this Eid
As the crescent moon rises to mark Eid Al-Adha, the spirit of pause and reflection finds its most resonant expression not just in prayer and togetherness, but also in setting—where we choose to retreat, reconnect, and renew. From the soulful quiet of the Arabian desert to the barefoot luxury of the Maldives and the enduring allure of the Côte d’Azur, The Riyadh Edit invites you on a curated Eid escape defined by intention, elegance, and memory.
A Desert Retreat at Bab Al Shams: Echoes of Heritage and Heart
Just beyond Dubai’s glistening skyline, the golden expanse of the Arabian desert stretches endlessly. Here, nestled among the dunes, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort offers a homecoming of sorts—a return to stillness, tradition, and immersive hospitality. The resort is not just a stay, but a statement. It whispers of heritage in every stone archway, every falconry display, every warm pour of gahwa at dawn.
Guests begin their day at Zala, greeted by the scent of freshly baked bread and the soft morning sun. The day unfolds gently: camel rides, soothing spa rituals, leisurely poolside hours, and sunset toasts at Anwā. As evening deepens, Al Hadheerah takes center stage—a feast under the stars complete with live music, an open-air majlis, and a rich Emirati buffet. It’s the kind of farewell that lingers in memory, as the venue closes for its summer interlude.
To extend the joy, Bab Al Shams introduces BAS Friends Day, a celebration of connection with Mediterranean lunches, infinity pool vistas, and soft live music. With exclusive Eid offers and curated experiences, this desert escape redefines what it means to come home for the holidays.
Room offers include 25% off rooms and suites, daily breakfast, AED 250 in resort credit, and 30% savings on dining. Falconry and camel rides included. Explore Bab Al Shams
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi: Where Island Time Meets Intention
A short yacht ride from Malé transports you to an entirely different world—Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, a private-island sanctuary defined by curated moments and tranquil luxury. Eid here isn’t just a holiday—it’s a ritual.
The resort’s Eid program begins with Maldivian Night at Nava Beach, where rhythmic BoduBeru drums and regional cuisine bring the soul of the islands to life. Across its many dining destinations—Tasting Table, The Ledge, and the Arabesque-inspired Yasmeen—guests are treated to Eid menus that blend tradition with innovation.
For children, there’s Eid-themed wonder in the form of lantern-making, treasure hunts, and cupcake decorating. Teens find adventure in paddle tennis and waterpark fun. Meanwhile, the Waldorf Astoria Spa offers Eid-centric wellness journeys like Glowing Serenity and Healing Waters, aligning body and soul with the spirit of the season.
Every detail of this escape is wrapped in exclusivity: from overwater villas with personal concierges to spa sanctuaries with unbroken views of the Indian Ocean. It’s Eid, reimagined with grace, serenity, and unmistakable Maldivian soul.
Monte-Carlo Beach: A Riviera Renaissance for Eid
A world away but spiritually close in elegance and refinement, the reimagined Monte-Carlo Beach is Monaco’s best-kept Eid secret. Poised along the sparkling coastline of the Côte d’Azur, this boutique retreat is both intimate and iconic.
With just 40 rooms, each designed by the legendary India Mahdavi, and a newly renovated Beach Club by Dorothée Delaye, the hotel offers a sun-drenched canvas of Roaring Twenties nostalgia and modern Riviera cool. It's Green Globe certified, yet nothing feels overly engineered—only natural, fluid luxury.
Gastronomy takes the spotlight: at Elsa, Michelin-starred Chef Marcel Ravin crafts organic, sea-inspired menus; Le Deck delivers casual excellence with a view; and Maona Monte-Carlo revives the joy of Mykonos with Greek-infused flair and a festive rhythm.
Wellness is woven throughout the stay—from tranquil spa escapes and stylish solariums to state-of-the-art padel courts and waterfront cabins. Adventurous souls can take to the sea with parasailing, tubing, and private boating.
Whether it’s morning swims or sunset aperitifs, the Monte-Carlo Beach experience is a poetic mix of Riviera culture, Eid mindfulness, and tailored elegance.
Eid as an Art of Living
In a season meant to reflect on gratitude, connection, and grace, these three destinations allow the modern Gulf traveler to do just that—through movement, setting, and story. Whether basking in the stillness of the dunes, surrendering to the rhythm of the sea, or sipping rosé with a Riviera breeze, Eid becomes more than a holiday. It becomes an experience. A journey of meaning through moments that matter.
Let this be your most intentional Eid yet.
