Why a replica of Santorini has emerged on the outskirts of the desert

White domes gliding into shimmering blue waters create a striking visual.

At first glance, it’s hard to deny: this scene could easily be mistaken for the iconic Santorini, Greece.

Yet, there’s something unique about it. Maybe it’s the dry desert breeze or the Arabic script decorating the signs. These subtle clues reveal the true location: Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates.

The Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat, which opened in February, is just an hour’s drive from the city center and draws inspiration directly from the famous Greek island.

The entire space is awash in shades of white, beige, and blue, with arching passageways and doorways. Handcrafted artwork, soothing melodies, and delicate embroidery on the linens transport you into a Mediterranean dream.

However, beyond the exquisite décor, Rachid Bakas, the general manager of the resort, believes it’s the natural beauty of Abu Dhabi that truly links this place to its Greek counterpart.

“When you look at the color of the sea next to us, it all starts to make sense,” Bakas explains. “The Santorini theme feels perfectly suited to this location, and that’s what makes the design flawless.”

Not ‘Chinatown’ or ‘Disneyland’

If cost isn’t a deciding factor, what makes this Abu Dhabi retreat more appealing than traveling to Greece?

“It’s about exclusivity,” Bakas states.

“This place offers privacy and intimacy. It’s a secluded escape—something you might not find in Santorini, especially in summer when the crowds are overwhelming.”

The resort is split into 22 rooms, each offering a cozy, living room-style common area, providing a home-like atmosphere while encouraging guests to explore the resort’s varied spaces. It’s designed to accommodate a maximum of 44 guests at once.

“The element of surprise is woven throughout the hotel, and from the moment you step inside, you’ll keep discovering charming nooks and unique spaces,” says Bakas.

Anantara Santorini offers a variety of experiences, from a cigar lounge and cinema to a spa and yoga sessions by the pool or beach. Yet, beyond entertainment, the goal is to offer guests peace and serenity.

“Sometimes, people just want solitude, without being constantly encouraged to participate in activities. That’s the balance we provide,” explains the manager.

Another reason for the peaceful atmosphere: a restricted age policy. The minimum age for check-in is 18, even when accompanied by parents or guardians.

“Here, you can truly disconnect, relax, and feel far away,” says Bakas. “It wasn’t an easy choice, but we wanted to offer a different level of experience compared to other resorts in the region.”

Fifty shades of white

While aiming to impress guests, the hotel staff also works tirelessly to erase any marks. The walls are kept flawlessly white, with a dedicated team handling the upkeep.

“We have two painters on-site, and their daily job is to go around and touch up the walls,” Bakas shares.

The painters go through the rooms between check-outs and check-ins, ensuring that no wall is anything but white—no traces of gray, beige, or eggshell.

“After touching up the walls, we need to ensure the color is perfectly consistent. We don’t want anyone to spot different strokes. It’s a crucial part of our preventive maintenance,” Bakas chuckles, gazing at the walls and ceilings with a smile.