Destination Dupes: 5 nearby luxe resorts that give far-flung feels

Although just a few months into the year, the concept of 'destination dupes' has emerged as a key and pivotal travel trend for 2024.

But, what are destination dupes?

A term given to destinations that that mimic, replicate or remind visitors of iconic vacation destinations. These destination dupes may offer travellers the feel and look of a particular destination or a desirable location but forfeiting an determining element such as price or travel time for example.

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We've rounded up five destination dupes that are within close proximity of the Kingdom, and give those seeking exotic, tropic and far-flung feel, some closer to home options. So forget the long-haul flights, and the accompanying jet-lag, let's take a look at some options that are close-by but definitely don't skimp on the indulgent vacay-vibes.

Destination Dupe for the Greek Isles

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Anatara Santorini
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

A brand new opening for the region, Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat is an exclusive adult-only destination with just 22 rooms and suites.With an emphasis on curved edges and architraves, natural elements in the flooring and in the textures of the chosen fabrics, the white washed walls, domed rooftops and rustic wooden and wicker accents, all juxtaposed against the aqua blue of the glistening sea and the pools, will whisk you away to the Greek Isles. This is an ultra-luxe, boutique escape on the edges of the Arabian Gulf, that feels like it could be so much further afield than the neighbouring UAE.

@anantarasantorini
anantara.com
Ghantoot, Al Samha, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Destination Dupe for Bora Bora

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St. Regis Red Sea Resort
Location: Red Sea Region, Saudi Arabia

Accessible only by boat, the newly opened St. Regis Red Sea Resort is the ultimate exclusive and indulgent getaway on the Ummahat archipelago. Surrounded by aqua blue waters, this is a picture perfect destination reminiscent of the iconic honeymoon destination of Bora Bora. The pristine private island coupled with the chic contemporary accommodation, top-notch service and breath-taking seascapes gives this retreat a secluded, tropical feeling that can't be described.

Read our full review right here

@thestregisredsea
marriott.com
Ummahat Island 1, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

Destination Dupe for the Canary Islands

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Six Senses Zighy Bay
Location: Musandam, Oman

Rustic yet modern, luxuriously coastal yet rugged, Oman's exclusive Six Senses Zighy Bay destination shares a charm that is synonymous with the volcanic Canary Islands, as is nestled in the fishing village location of Dibba. It is here where Mediterranean feels meet Moorish influences and is enveloped by rich Omani heritage, you'll be transported to the blue waters of the Atlantic as you sit waterside beneath the shadows of the palms, with the rocky expanse of the rocky mountain-scape as a backdrop.

@sixsenseszighybay
sixsenses.com
Dibba-Musandam, Oman

Destination Dupe for a South African Safari

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Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

As you enter the gates of Nofa Riyadh, you will be transported to the African Plains - without the hassle of the airport. Set on the grounds of a private wildlife sanctuary this luxury resort feels like an oasis of serenity, despite being just an hour outside of Riyadh. In addition to the shared spaces in the main building, the resort truly leans into the destination feels and embraces the African theme across the 57 bungalows and villas, each designed in the thatched and beamed style as seen in villages across Kenya, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. With a golf course, two large lakes, a stables and a safari park, alongside restaurants and pools, nature and activities are just an arm's length away - and so are herds of big cats, Asian elephants, zebras, giraffes and of course Arabian oryx.

@radissoncollectionriyadh
radisson.com
Riyadh-Makkah Highway, Exit 857, Riyadh, 66223, Saudi Arabia

Destination Dupe for the Maldives

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Anantara Mina Al Arab
Location: Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

It is difficult not to liken the over-water villas of the new Anantara Mina Al Arab in Ras Al Khaimah to those made famous by resorts in the Maldives. Thatch bungalows sit alongside on the resort's pristine natural beach and surrounded by waters of a blue lagoon and nature of the local mangroves. With an indulgent spa, an extensive array of water sports and recreational activities alongside the resort's signature restaurants, this can be a getaway as active or relaxed as you wish. The perfect dupe for the far-flung island destination, Anantara Mina Al Arab is a mere two hour flight from Riyadh.

@anantararasalkhaimah
anantara.com
Al Huwailat Street, Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates