Over recent years, there has been an increased global trend towards sustainable travel, with guests becoming more mindful about where they’re choosing to spend their vacation and how their travel will impact the environment.

According to a recent report by the World Travel and Tourism Council, 69% of tourists are now actively seeking sustainable travel options as part of their travel plans. Ideal for GCC travellers looking for an escape that won’t negatively impact the environment, these two resorts offer a sustainable travel destination complimented by luxury offerings and amenities.

1. ZULAL WELLNESS RESORT BY CHIVA-SOM

Qatar’s largest wellness destination, Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som is a unique haven of tranquillity and wellness. Founded on a holistic approach to sustainable well-being, Zulal Wellness Resort believes that personal wellness goes hand in hand with environmental sustainability. Designed to strengthen guests’ connection to nature, the resort creates salubrious effects of the natural world, principles that are known to reduce stress, blood pressure levels and heart rates, whilst increasing creativity and overall wellbeing.

The unique architecture of the resort draws heavily from the principle of biophilic design, focusing on incorporating natural materials and elements of the coastal desert setting into indoor spaces. Known for their valuable healing properties and effectiveness in relieving anxiety, the tranquil pathways of Zulal Wellness Resort are engraved with Sidr Leaf trees creating a calming environment for guests to enjoy.

Staying true to Chiva-Som’s core principles, Zulal Wellness Resort operates sustainably and adheres to environmentally friendly practices, such as minimising the use of plastics, utilising organic produce and locally developed speciality products, energy conservation and the implementation of water preservation technologies. Furthermore, the resort’s commitment to the preservation and afforestation of mangrove environments, along with an array of other green initiatives, is part of their sustainability mission, aligned with Qatar’s Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals of 2030.

For more information or reservations please visit zulal.com

 

2. EMERALD ZANZIBAR RESORT & SPA 

Situated on the coastline of Muyuni Beach in Matemwe, the newly opened Emerald Zanzibar Resort & Spa offers guests a 5-star Deluxe all-inclusive resort immersed in tropical nature. Located within 10 hectares of land and overlooking the picturesque Muyuni Beach, Emerald Zanzibar is set on the shores of a turquoise lagoon offering direct access to crystal clear waters. Sustainability is a leading principle for Emerald Zanzibar Resort & Spa, and an ongoing commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect of its daily operations.

Committed to maintaining and strengthening the natural surroundings, Emerald Zanzibar Resort & Spa’s goal is to preserve the natural beauty of the island and the diverse marine life that inhabits the surrounding waters through a series of eco-friendly initiatives. The resort’s focus on sustainable construction choices can be seen throughout the property, where natural and indigenous materials have been utilised wherever possible.

Thanks to the sunny climate all year round, the property provides hot water for guests and staff members through a series of solar panels which are positioned throughout the main body and on the suites, while recirculated water is used for irrigation. With the mission to become 100% plastic-free, Emerald Zanzibar Resort & Spa also produces and bottles its own drinking water on the island for guests to enjoy. 

For more information or reservations please visit https://www.emerald-zanzibar.com/