Certified “High Environmental Quality”
Dakhla is an environmental exception. A city facing the desert, between lagoon, wind and ocean, at the edge of the world. Its ecosystem is unique, spectacular and fragile.
Preserving a rare place
Dakhla is an environmental exception. A city facing the desert, between lagoon, wind and ocean, at the edge of the world. Its ecosystem is unique, spectacular and fragile.
At Palais Rhoul Dakhla, we believe that the experience of a guesthouse should generate neither waste of precious resources nor unnecessary waste or pollution. Following an impact study carried out with an international consultancy, we developed an environmental charter to make our activity part of a more responsible approach.
This charter is based on preserving the site, saving water and energy, reducing waste, adopting a more responsible purchasing policy and supporting the economic development of our southern province. It guides our daily decisions, as well as the simple gestures that allow our guests to take part in this approach during their stay.
What is necessary, rather than what is superflu
In the bathroom, the idea that the more welcome products there are, the better the service has long shaped the hotel industry. The reality is often less elegant: a large proportion of these products end up in the bin without ever having been used.
In Dakhla, this issue takes on particular importance. Unnecessary waste does not simply disappear. It remains stored in the desert, in a region where recycling channels are still limited and where the nearest open-air landfill is several dozen kilometres from the city.
We have therefore chosen to offer what is essential, with care, rather than accumulate single-use products. This choice helps limit waste, avoid hidden costs built into the room rate and, above all, respect the fragile ecological balance of the desert around us.
The shower products and soaps provided in the rooms are natural and certified organic. Products that remain usable after departure are redistributed free of charge whenever possible. Water is served in glass bottles in order to reduce the use of plastic.
Practical actions every day
Our commitment is reflected in simple but consistent choices. We save water through flow regulators fitted to the taps. Some water is recovered, after natural filtration, for the maintenance of outdoor areas. A significant proportion of our wastewater is treated through a natural overflow filtration system.
The swimming pool uses an environmentally responsible UV filtration system, significantly reducing the need for chemical products. We use low-energy lighting, monitor our consumption and favour more responsible equipment.
Plastic bottles are avoided wherever possible. Eco-labelled cleaning products are favoured for the laundry. Bed linen and towels are not changed daily unless requested by the guest, in order to reduce the use of water, energy and laundry products.
We do not use pesticides. Whenever possible, we favour suppliers who respect their environment, regional produce, short supply chains and products from organic or responsible farming.
During fishing or spearfishing outings, we take only what will be consumed immediately, while respecting biological rest periods and the natural balance of the lagoon.
A house committed to its region
Palais Rhoul Dakhla is also a house closely connected to its region. At least 90% of our team comes from the surrounding towns and villages. We favour local suppliers, regional food products and purchases that contribute to local economic development.
Our commitment extends beyond the environment. The house also seeks to support the surrounding community through its own foundation and practical local initiatives. For example, we systematically prepare one additional meal for every three meals
We have also contributed to funding Dakhla’s first medical centre dedicated to vulnerable people. These actions are part of the spirit of the house: to welcome, preserve, pass on and contribute, in our own way, to the place around us.
During your stay
A few simple gestures allow every guest to take part in this approach.
We invite you to use water thoughtfully, avoid leaving taps running unnecessarily, unplug chargers when they are not connected to a device being charged, and request fresh bathroom and pool towels only when needed.
We do not provide single-use slippers. Dakhla has no fully established recycling system, and these products too often end up among waste exposed to the wind, with a direct impact on the desert and lagoon. We therefore recommend bringing reusable flip-flops or sandals to wear around the house.
When air conditioning is in use, windows and glass doors should remain closed to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.
We also ask that nothing other than the appropriate toilet paper be disposed of in the toilets.
Waste sorting receives particular attention: cardboard, plastic, glass, batteries, oils and food waste are collected separately whenever local facilities allow. Used batteries may be left in the main lounge. Medicines or specific waste may be handed to our team so that they can be directed to the appropriate channels.
Our environmental commitment is not a fixed statement. It evolves with the place, the constraints of the region and the solutions available in Dakhla. It is part of the spirit of Palais Rhoul: preserving what surrounds us, reducing what can be reduced, and offering a more thoughtful, balanced stay that respects both lagoon and desert.