Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat Introduces Soulful Wellness Experiences by the Sea

Set against the azure backdrop of the Arabian Gulf, Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat, operated by Minor Hotels, unveils a new chapter in transformative wellbeing, inviting both in-house guests and the wider community to experience a collection of rejuvenating rituals that move beyond the traditional spa.

Each month, as the full moon ascends over the horizon, guests are invited to gather for a deeply evocative Full Moon Ceremony. This guided experience unfolds in a sacred sequence beginning with a shared circle and heart-opening cacao ritual, moving into breath-led meditation and gentle self-reflection. Guests are encouraged to release what no longer serves them through a symbolic bonfire ritual, before closing with a flower offering and shared gratitude beneath the moonlight. Those who choose the full-day experience may arrive earlier to enjoy exclusive access to the resort’s pool and beach, allowing time for quiet contemplation ahead of the evening’s ceremony. The Full Moon Ceremony offers a rare opportunity to reconnect with oneself and the natural world in a setting that is both grounded and ethereal.

Anchoring the weekly calendar is the newly introduced Santorini Sundays, where guests are welcomed in a group with a slower rhythm. Guests begin with a herbal-infused welcome drink, followed by an intention-setting ritual and guided breathwork. The journey continues with a 60-minute slow flow yoga session, accompanied by the meditative tones of live handpan music, culminating in a nourishing wellness breakfast served overlooking the sea.

Guests seeking deeper exploration may opt for the full-day experience, which includes a Creative Expression Workshop that varies each week, from intuitive painting and vision board journalling to mandala or calligraphy art. The day concludes with quiet time by the pool or beach, allowing the benefits of the morning to settle fully into the body and mind. Advance booking is essential to preserve the intimacy of the group setting.

Adding a cinematic layer to the resort’s wellness offering, the new Mindfulness Screenings take place daily in the comfort of Anantara’s luxury indoor cinema. Curated short films and documentaries gently explore themes of healing, purpose and human connection, offering guests a space to slow down and reconnect through the art of storytelling. Each screening is accompanied by herbal tea or still water and can be enjoyed as a shared experience or arranged privately with bespoke programming.

Rounding out the sensory journey is the Arabic Perfume Workshop, offering guests a rare glimpse into the rich heritage of fragrance in the region. Guided by an expert scent-maker, guests are invited to discover the evocative power of oud, rose, musk and amber as they learn to blend their own bespoke perfume. This exclusive session, available by request, provides a fragrant keepsake and is ideal for couples or groups wishing to share a unique encounter steeped in local legacy.

Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat remains devoted to crafting moments of calm, clarity and transformation. These new experiences invite guests to engage with wellness as a personal journey rather than a prescribed routine, where each detail is considered, each ritual intentional, and each encounter an invitation to return to self. For further information or reservations, please visit www.anantara.com/santorini-abu-dhabi or reach out to santorini@anantara.com.

A luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, Anantara Hotels & Resorts connects guests to genuine places, people and stories in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. Each Anantara embraces the surroundings and culture of its destination, creating unforgettable memories for every guest since 2001. From city to sea and desert to jungle, Anantara delivers heartfelt, Thai-inspired hospitality at its over 50 hotels and resorts across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean.

Anantara Hotels & Resorts is a Minor Hotels brand and recognises its guests through one unified loyalty programme, Minor DISCOVERY, part of GHA DISCOVERY.

Visit anantara.com for more information, and connect with Anantara on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and YouTube.