Staying at a magical desert resort in the United Arab Emirates is an unforgettable experience. From indoor theme parks to water sports and everything in between, the United Arab Emirates has a lot to offer tourists.
The country’s hotels are considered among the best in the world, but desert resorts are a popular choice for travelers looking for a unique experience. Here are the best luxury hotels in the desert of the United Arab Emirates. Want to take a break? You can book a room at these superb desert resorts in Abu Dhabi.
Desert hotels in Dubai: Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa
Just a 45-minute drive from Dubai, Bab Al Shams is a unique vacation destination. Enjoy the magical desert setting and authentic Arab architecture. This tranquil oasis offers countless desert adventures, including delicious cuisine, nature walks and camel rides.
Combining a host of activities, breathtaking views and quality hospitality, Bab Al Shams is Dubai’s desert hotel well worth a visit.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Anantara’s Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort is a 90-minute drive from Abu Dhabi, at the tip of the Rub al Khali, the world’s largest area of pristine sand dunes. The resort’s name, inspired by the desert fortress, means “fata morgana”, fitting for the low-slung buildings floating in the pale red sand dunes.
The 154 rooms and suites and 52 villas offer stunning desert views, understated local design and modern amenities such as Nespresso machines and Bose sound systems. The hotel has several restaurants, including Al Waha, serving Middle Eastern cuisine, and Suhail, a fine-dining grill. Al Falaj is a Bedouin-style restaurant for the colder months.
1 Qasr Al Sarab Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE; 00971-2-886 2088, anantara.com.
BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT AND SPA UAE
The Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is perhaps Dubai’s most popular desert hotel. From rocky cliffs to lush gardens and fountains, this is the secluded oasis par excellence. Nestled between Arab architecture and sand dunes, it’s the ideal place for travelers looking for accommodations inspired by nomadic history. The hotel is more intimate, with a restaurant, spa and infinity pool offering spectacular views of the surrounding desert.
Desert activities are an integral part of a stay at this resort. In addition to camel rides, you can play tennis in the desert, take guided nature walks, practice falconry, archery and more.
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort is located on Al Qudra Road and is one of the most popular resorts in the United Arab Emirates. It takes visitors around 30 minutes to reach it from downtown Dubai. The nearest airport, Al Maktoum International Airport, is 40 minutes away.
THE RITZ-CARLTON RAS AL KHAIMAH – AL WADI DESERT
Discover the country’s traditional roots in the luxury of the Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert hotel. The residential units available are Bedouin-style villas with terraces, swimming pools, private bathrooms and sitting areas. To add to the charm of the establishment, floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to fully admire the desert view.
This RAK-based complex is a dream come true. What’s more, it’s an excellent choice for a relaxing summer vacation in Ras Al Khaimah. Guests can dine in one of four establishments, including the Farmhouse, a farm-to-table restaurant, and the Moon Bar, an open-air restaurant. In addition to exemplary cuisine, the resort’s bars and restaurants offer a visual treat thanks to the picturesque backdrop of the RAK desert.
La Rainforest is a spa service that combines traditional Middle Eastern bathing rituals with European hydrothermal techniques. The experience includes 16 different stations and ends with a relaxing moment on a deckchair.
The resort has a riding school, offering riding lessons on horses, camels and ponies. In addition, you can ask the concierge about available activities, such as camel rides and archery. Relax at the Oasis Pool and Bar.
MYSK AL BADAYER RETREAT
Take a look at the history of the luxurious UAE lifestyle at Mysk Al Badayer Retreat, which offers 21 rooms and 10 tents, all equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. Looking for adventure? Sign up for a full day of desert safari, stargazing, dune hunting or falconry. If you fancy a walk in nature, you can explore the Sharjah desert by mountain bike or hike in the nearby mountains.
For meals, the Al Madam restaurant offers a buffet breakfast. Guests can enjoy a sumptuous dinner or lunch. You’ll be spoilt for choice with international and regional dishes. The best desert resorts in the United Arab Emirates offer a variety of entertainment activities for their guests. In addition to the inevitable camel ride, these activities can include desert treks, safaris, falconry and more. This concludes our guide to the best desert hotels in the United Arab Emirates. We hope you enjoy your stay amidst the country’s breathtaking natural beauty.
