Imagine this: you are living in a luxurious tent, the sound of desert winds whispering secrets outside. Sunlight spills through the drapes, casting playful patterns on the plush carpets. A steaming cup of Arabic coffee sits beside you, the perfect prelude to an adventure unlike any other. This isn't a scene from a movie; it's a reality waiting for you at one of the UAE's incredible desert resorts. The UAE boasts a diverse landscape, and its deserts are far from barren wastelands. They're havens of tranquility, adventure, and breathtaking beauty. We've curated a list of the best desert resorts in UAE, catering to every taste and budget.
Imagine yourself transported to a bygone era at Qasr Al Sarab. As one of the best desert resorts in UAE, it is designed to resemble a traditional Arabian fortress and offers stunning views of the Empty Quarter, the world's largest sand desert. Unwind in opulent rooms, take a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the dunes, or embark on a thrilling desert safari. In the evenings, indulge in a gourmet meal under a canopy of stars – an experience you surely won't forget.
Website: https://www.anantara.com/en/qasr-al-sarab-abu-dhabi
Do you wish to have a taste of the desert royalty? The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah offers just that. Picture private villas with plunge pools nestled amidst lush gardens, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Al Wadi desert. Spend your days exploring the surrounding nature reserve, spotting wildlife like gazelles and oryx. At night, savor delectable cuisine on your private terrace, and the sound of desert silence is a balm for the soul. You will experience true royalty at one of the best desert resorts in UAE.
Website: https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/rktrw-the-ritz-carlton-ras-al-khaimah-al-wadi-desert/overview/
Sometimes, luxury comes with a touch of tradition. Bab Al Shams, meaning "Gateway to the Sun," lives up to its name. This award-winning property is one of the best desert resorts in UAE, and it evokes a serene desert village with sun-baked walls and courtyards adorned with palm trees. Relax in your private villa, complete with a luxurious bathroom and a patio overlooking the unending dunes. Don't miss a rejuvenating treatment at the world-class spa or a romantic dinner under a blanket of stars.
Website: https://www.babalshams.com/
For an authentic desert experience with a touch of luxury, look no further than Al Maha. Among the most iconic desert resorts in UAE, this eco-conscious resort offers secluded villas nestled amidst the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Imagine waking up to the sunrise over the pristine dunes, the gentle calls of desert wildlife being your only soundtrack. Take a guided nature trail, try horseback riding amidst the golden sands, or relax by your private pool, soaking in the tranquility. This resort truly offers it all!
Step back in time and experience the charm of a traditional Bedouin encampment at Arabian Nights Village. As one of the best desert resorts in UAE, it offers a variety of accommodation options, from cozy tents to mudbrick houses, all designed to reflect the region's nomadic heritage. Spend your days exploring the desert landscape by camel or 4x4, and immerse yourself in the culture with falconry demonstrations and traditional henna painting. In the evenings, gather around a bonfire and listen to captivating tales woven by local storytellers under a canopy of stars.
Website: https://arabianknightstours.com/
Seeking a desert escape that blends luxury with wellness? Look no further than Al Wathba. Considered one of the most stunning desert resorts in UAE, it boasts a design inspired by a historic village, with private villas and guest rooms offering unparalleled comfort. Unwind beside the expansive infinity pool, overlooking the vast desert plains. For an extra dose of indulgence, visit the world-class spa, offering treatments that harmoniously blend ancient Arabic traditions with modern techniques. Al Wathba caters to active travelers as well, with facilities for horseback riding, archery, and cycling through the picturesque desert trails.
Picture a family-friendly haven nestled amidst the golden dunes. Desert Rose Resort offers a relaxed and playful ambiance, which is ideal for creating lasting memories with your family at one of the best desert resorts in UAE. Splash around in the temperature-controlled pools, complete with waterslides and a children's play area. The resort also boasts a petting zoo, where children can interact with a variety of desert animals. In the evenings, gather around the campfire for family movie nights or traditional entertainment shows.
Website: https://desertrose.com/
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and discover a hidden gem – JA Hatta Fort Hotel. Nestled amidst the rugged Hajar Mountains, this resort seamlessly blends adventure and relaxation. Hike through breathtaking wadis (valleys), kayak on crystal-clear lakes, or simply relax by the pool, soaking in the breathtaking mountain views. In the evenings, enjoy traditional Emirati cuisine under the starlit sky, listening to the soothing sounds of nature. As one of the best desert resorts in UAE, this property is well worth your money.
Website: https://www.jaresortshotels.com/dubai/ja-hatta-fort-hotel
Looking for a desert escape with a touch of the extraordinary? While technically not in the UAE, Six Senses Zighy Bay in Musandam, Oman, deserves an honorable mention. This secluded resort clings to dramatic cliffs overlooking the Musandam Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the meeting point of desert and turquoise waters. Hike through the rugged terrain, kayak in the crystal-clear coves, or simply relax in your private villa or infinity pool, gazing out at the endless horizon.
Website: https://www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/zighy-bay/destination/
These resorts offer more than just stunning views. Most provide a plethora of activities to keep you entertained, from exhilarating dune-bashing adventures to serene yoga sessions under the starlit sky. With so many incredible options, you're sure to find the perfect desert oasis to create memories that will last a lifetime. So, it is time to pack your sense of adventure and wanderlust and get ready to be enchanted by the desert resorts in UAE.
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