Written by: Jill Bordelon Munir
Editing and contribution: Ellen Masters Postel
Photos: Marie-Josée Bédard
Embark on a journey of opulence and environmental harmony as we unveil the hidden gem within the heart of the Qatari desert. The Outpost Al Barari, a secluded eco-resort oasis, extends an invitation to transcend the ordinary and immerse oneself in a symphony of raw nature, unparalleled luxury hospitality, and a profound connection to the Earth.
Entwined within the globally unique Inland Sea UNESCO nature reserve, this exclusive haven tells a captivating tale of conservation, love, and a commitment to protecting and educating about both cultural and environmental heritage. The wisdom often attributed to Baba Dioum resonates through the very essence of The Outpost Al Barari: "In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand, and we will understand only what we are taught."
Join us as we explore this exceptional retreat, where the delicate balance between indulgence and environmental stewardship creates an experience unlike any other. Welcome to The Outpost Al Barari, where luxury meets a heartfelt dedication to our planet's rich heritage.
Dr. Peter Van de Bunt, co-founder of this exquisite luxury haven said: “Our resort introduces a revolutionary and unparalleled concept in luxury hospitality to Qatar. Our goal is to weave immersive nature experiences and sustainability into the very fabric of our close-to-nature resort, setting a new standard for opulent experiences in this vibrant destination and Qatar born hotel brand.”
From the moment you set foot on the sacred grounds of The Outpost Al Barari, the desert breeze carries with it the whispers of an ancient tale. Here, the resort transcends being a destination; it becomes a living testament to the interconnectedness of love, understanding, and conservation – a philosophy etched into every grain of towering sand beneath the azure sky. Amidst the serenity, The Outpost Al Barari emerges as an oasis where guests not only rejuvenate their spirits but also cultivate a deep appreciation for Qatar's rich natural environment and heritage. The unique locale eco-friendly luxury hospitality brand stands as one of the world’s few places where the majesty of sand mountains harmonizes with the tranquility of the sea close by over the towering sand dunes.
Perched by the Inland Sea, The Outpost Al Barari boasts a rare and breathtaking setting — a convergence of majestic sand dunes meeting the serene embrace of azure seawater close by. This unique locale stands as one of the world's few places where the majesty of sand mountains harmonizes with the desert nature knowing the tranquility of the sea.
In the tapestry of Middle Eastern cultures, hospitality at The Outpost Al Barari is not a mere service; it is a sacred duty. Guests stepping onto this oasis are greeted with a profound and symbolic welcome – the offering of rose water for handwashing and Zam Zam water for refreshment upon arrival. Beyond the realms of standard hospitality, these gestures become a cultural overture, a dance of tradition and symbolism that enriches the visitor's experience in ways beyond imagination. It is a silent promise of a warm and respectful embrace, a tradition carried through generations that now extends to the heart of The Outpost Al Barari.
This welcome is a brushstroke in the canvas of a guest's experience, creating a lasting connection between the resort, its visitors, and the cultural heritage of Qatar. The art of welcome, as practiced at The Outpost Al Barari, is a masterpiece where tradition and luxury converge to create an unforgettable symphony of the senses.
Rooted within the vast expanse of the Qatari desert, The Outpost Al Barari reveals a collection of twenty-one tented Arabic villas, each discreetly cradled by the arid embrace of the landscape. These villas are not just accommodations; they are enchanting tales waiting to be unraveled. Stepping into their secluded world, a symphony of beige, sand, and taupe unfolds, paying homage to the rich heritage of the cultures they represent. Each villa whispers a unique story, adorned with patterns and decorations that dance in harmony with the natural hues, creating an inviting ambiance reminiscent of Qatar's awe-inspiring landscapes.
"Our goal," as expressed by André Seltmann, "is to have The Outpost powered by solar panels to add to a complete eco-friendly resort."
The tented ceilings, gracefully vaulted, reach towards the heavens, mirroring the majesty of the desert sky. The villas boast gardens as backyards, hidden sanctuaries where time seems to stand still. Amidst this oasis, a private sweet water swimming pool becomes a tranquil reflection of the surrounding beauty, inviting you to plunge into a state of serenity, harmonizing with the environment. It's a place where the boundary between the villa and the desert blurs, and you find yourself seamlessly entwined with the elements.
These villas are not only architectural marvels but also repositories of timeless charm blended with modern comfort. As you explore, you'll encounter the latest gadgets and smart systems discreetly integrated, ensuring a cocoon of luxury while preserving the traditional allure. Above the master bed hangs a canvas illustrating the first historical map that 'Katar' was ever illustrated on. The villas are a testament to Al Barari's unwavering commitment to environmental integration. They minimize their ecological footprint, creating a delicate dance between luxury and responsible living.
In the tranquil haven of each villa, time becomes an elusive concept, and the desert whispers its ancient secrets. The air is filled with the fragrance of authenticity, and the villas become portals to a bygone era, where history meets contemporary elegance. The Outpost Al Barari's villas are not just places to stay; they are enchanting sanctuaries where the past and present coalesce, inviting you to step into a magical realm where every moment is a celebration of the delicate balance between nature, heritage, and modern indulgence. It is easy to get sweep away in imagination, contemplating the footsteps Sheiks, Kings. Bedouins, and pilgrims that have traveled this captivating desert landscape.
We encourage you to visit and pause, relax, and revel in the peaceful connection with the outdoors. Whether enjoying a quiet moment alone or socializing with loved ones, this idyllic escape will foster a sense of tranquility and harmony with nature within the sanctuary of The Outpost Al Barari.
This desert oasis is not just a destination; it is a living testament to the transformative power of love, understanding, and conservation. In the footsteps of Baba Dioum’s wisdom, The Outpost Al Barari beckons us all to be custodians of the earth, fostering a legacy of harmony and reverence for the natural world.
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Expressing our gratitude to our esteemed hosts for the extraordinary tour, including Founding Partners Dr. Peter van de Bunt and André Seltmann, alongside Mohammad Taha Nashwan, General Manager. Unified in their dedication to environmental sustainability and holistic health, both the Origine Mag Team and The Outpost resonate deeply with the intricate balance between nature and well-being.
The Outpost is not done it is only beginning. Their gaze is fixed on the future, brimming with aspirations for further evolution. Among the forthcoming phases of development is the establishment of a solar plant, a testament to their unwavering commitment to sustainable practices. In addition to forming partnerships with farms and like-minded collaborators who share their profound respect, dedication, and appreciation for Qatar’s natural heritage.
The Outpost Barari, born in Qatar, stands as a pioneering brand. Their experienced team envisions using the insights gained to paint new masterpieces on blank canvases. These future properties, conceived in distant lands, will echo the ethos of The Outpost Barari—blending luxury with environmental stewardship and leaving a mark on the world's most breathtaking landscapes. The goal is not merely to create a haven within the Qatari desert but to extend their vision globally and build outposts in places like Oman, Saudi Arabia, the Amazon, and beyond.
Website : https://theoutpostalbarari.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outpostalbarari/
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OutpostAlBarari
Contact: +974 5100 2720
Entrepreneur
Jill Bordelon Munir
Jill is an author and brand strategist executive with two decades of experience developing marketing campaigns,
brand propositions, logos, websites and e-commerce platforms, helping companies showcase their image to the business world. In addition to opening and owning Doha’s first gluten and dairy free restaurant with a dedicated kitchen in Qatar. Located on The Pearl.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pureeatsdoha/
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PureEatsCo