Al-Ain Retreat

Nestled within the sweeping sands of Al Ain, this desert retreat reimagines the traditional Emirati Fareej with its key elements; courtyard houses, Sikka and Baraha, through a contemporary lens. The design orchestrates a harmonious dialogue between vernacular forms and modern luxury, where four distinct masses; Main building, Guest House, Secondary House and the retreat gather around a central oasis. Inspired by mud architecture and the natural desert rhythm, the retreat’s fragmented geometry evokes organic growth around a life-giving water source. Earth-toned plastered façades echo the surrounding dunes, while courtyards, shaded Riwaqs, and verdant pockets breathe life and coolness into the arid landscape. At its heart, this project is both a sanctuary and a statement: a tribute to kinship, heritage, and the sublime beauty of stillness.