Best Desert Hotels and Resorts in The UAE: 8 Of Bazaar Arabia’s Most Luxurious Picks
Prepare to embark on a quintessentially Arabian escapade…
Best Desert Hotels and Resorts in The UAE: Bazaar Arabia shares 8 of our favourites here.
This season, escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and indulge in a luxurious desert staycation in the UAE. Immerse yourself in bespoke experiences, from private camel treks at sunset to stargazing under the desert’s pristine canopy. Gourmet dining, spa treatments inspired by desert traditions, and personalized service elevate every moment.
From the exquisite sites of sand dunes to the opulent hotel spa, Bazaar Arabia has you taken care of with a list of 8 luxurious UAE desert resorts to consider.
8 Of The Most Luxurious UAE Desert Resorts: Bazaar Arabia‘s Luxe Guide To The Sand Dunes
Bab Al Shams Luxury Desert Resort
Enjoy a peaceful but adventure-filled getaway amidst the dunes at the Bab Al Shams Luxury Desert Resort. From horse riding on beautiful Arabian horses to enjoying the gorgeous scenery on camelback, there is something for everyone at this opulent desert resort. Adding to the extensive list of activities one can participate in, there is also a lovely array of restaurants to enjoy fantastic culinary experiences and get a taste of authentic local cuisine. The rooms and suites have been carefully designed, offering the ultimate comforts to guests, visiting this resort the ultimate luxury experience.
Location: Al Qudra Road – Opposite Endurance City – Dubai
For reservations, visit their website here or contact +971 4 809 6100
The Ritz Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert
Nestled in the Wadi Khadeja is this lavish desert retreat. When enjoying your relaxing stay, you can participate in various activities offered at their Adventure Centre, Equestrian Centre, and Falconry school and indulge in relaxation treatments at their Spa. The dining experiences are also not one to miss, with tasteful cuisine surrounded by sand dunes. After satisfying meals, retreat to the carefully designed rooms influenced by Bedouin architecture with your own private pool.
Location: Al Mazraa Wadi Khadija – Al Ashish – Ras al Khaimah
For reservations visit their site or contact: +971 7 206 7777
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa Dubai:
Looking for some of the best UAE desert resorts? A short drive from Dubai will get you to the Al Maha Resort and Spa to begin your desert getaway surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. One can enjoy the landscape with desert safari, nature walks and much more, all offered at the resort. Delectable Arabic and Mediterranean dishes are also on offer for guests to enjoy.
Location: Dubai Desert Conservations Reserve– Al Ain Road – Dubai
For reservations and bookings click here or contact: +971 4 832 9900
Telal Resort Al Ain
Situated in the Remah Desert, just outside of Al Ain city and a short drive from Abu Dhabi, lies this elegant resort. During your stay, catch glimpses of wildlife, such as gazelles and the Arabian Oryx grazing away. This is the ideal destination for bird lovers with an array of birds such as the Houbara, swans, and more to be sited—delight in their delicious food either in the resort’s restaurant or tucked away in your villa.
Location: Remah Al Ain – Abu Dhabi
For reservations click here or contact: +971 3 702 0000, [email protected]
Al Badayer Retreat
In the Sharjah desert dunes lies this unique resort, ideal for a city escape. Watch the stunning sunrises and sunsets from your eloquent tents or homes and indulge in lovely cuisine prepared by the Retreats chefs. Also, relax in the spa and enjoy some downtime for yourself. Whether you enjoy time as a family, with friends or on your own, Al Badayer Retreat will not disappoint. Looking for some of the best UAE desert resorts? Al Badayar Retreat is one to keep on your radar.
Location: Al Badayer – Sharjah
For reservations click here or contact +971 6 801 2000
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort
This exquisite resort is situated amidst breathtaking landscapes where you’ll be surrounded by nature and wildlife. Enjoy one of the many dining options offered at the resort, some of which host an African theme in cuisine. Guests can choose to eat at the restaurants or in the privacy of their own villa. Your villas also host private pools and lounge areas to enjoy the peaceful sights and sounds of your surroundings.
Location: Al Ruwais, Sir Bani Yas Island
For reservations click here or contact +971 2 801 4300, [email protected]
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Qasr Al Sarab is a hidden gem located just over an hour away from Abu Dhabi. The resort is perfectly positioned in the Empty Quarter, with stunning sand dunes surrounding you. You can enjoy sumptuous dining under the cascade of stars, explore your surroundings on camelback or unwind at their spa. Their expansive list of activities will only leave you with something to do if that is of your own accord!
Location: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, 1 Qasr Al Sarab Road
For reservations click here, or contact +971 2 886 2088, [email protected]
Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi
At this resort you’ll be enwrapped within nature, a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Their unique spa is a highlight for many guests to spend some peaceful downtime in. Dotted throughout the resort are traditional artworks and Arabesque touches as well as a plethora of dining options for guests. At the end of the day retreat back to your private room for a blissful night’s sleep.
Location: Al Wathba South – Abu Dhabi
For reservations click here, or contact +971 2 204 4400 or +1 800 325 3589
Lead image credits: Photography: Raffo Marone. Styling: Nour Bou Ezz. Model: Sabrina Mello at MMG Models. Make-Up: Raffaele Romagnoli. Hair: Olive Jeanne at MMG Artists. Senior Producer: Steff Hawker. Fashion Assistant: Poucy Elshahawy. Special thanks to Bab Al Shams
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s March 2023 issue