Feel like royalty at these luxury resorts in the UAE
Whether you are a resident taking a break from your busy schedule or a tourist exploring the emirates, staying at the best resorts in the UAE must be on your to-do list. These hideaways, which are located in the most scenic spots, provide guests with a variety of amenities. We’ve rounded up the top-rated resorts in the UAE for each emirate, from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah.
BEST RESORTS IN DUBAI
This glittering emirate is no stranger to out-of-this-world resort experiences. The sheer number of grand resorts in Dubai will astound you. To help you pick the right one for the perfect vacation, here’s a list of some of the best Dubai resorts.
ATLANTIS THE PALM
Amongst the most famous resorts in Dubai is Atlantis The Palm — also known across the globe for the thrilling Aquaventure Waterpark, the mesmerising Lost Chambers Aquarium and unique dolphin experiences.
The beachfront resort is located in Palm Jumeirah and boasts gorgeous Arabian and ocean-inspired decor with jaw-dropping views of the Arabian Gulf.
- Location: Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah
- Contact: +971-4-426-2000
WHAT CAN YOU DO THERE?
- Dine at award-winning restaurants
- Relax at the ShiQui Spa
- Enjoy a fun-filled family day at the Aquaventure Waterpark or Wavehouse
- Explore the beautiful underwater world at Lost Chambers Aquarium.
- Party at the White Beach
- Enjoy watersports at the private beach
BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT
If you’re looking for a true Emirati experience, a luxury desert resort in the UAE is where you’d want to be. Built to emulate an Arabian fort, Bab Al Shams earns its spot amongst the top desert resorts in Dubai.
With sweeping views of the sand dunes and plenty of activities for guests, this resort in the UAE gives you a true desert experience paired with absolute luxury.
- Location: Al Qudra Road, Opposite Endurance City
- Contact: +971-4-381-3231
WHAT CAN YOU DO THERE?
- Enjoy walks and drives in the desert with a chance to get a glimpse of the local wildlife
- Experience the local culture with horse riding, falconry and archery
- Relax and recuperate at the Satori Spa or take a leisurely swim in the infinity pool
- Enjoy a hearty buffet Arabic-style at Al Hadheerah Restaurant with live local music and dance performances
- Play tennis in the desert
- Go fat bike riding
MADINAT JUMEIRAH RESORT
Also featuring on our list of best hotels and resorts in Jumeirah, Madinat Jumeirah is a popular choice for both tourists and residents looking for staycations. This expansive resort complex is built to resemble a charming, old Arabian town, complete with winding canals, lush palm trees and souks.
Madinat Jumeirah is home to three stunning hotels: Mina A’Salam, Al Qasr and Al Naseem, which offer the best of Arabian hospitality and luxury. Close to leisure hotspots such as JBR and Dubai Marina, Madinat Jumeirah is easily one of the top choices for luxury family resorts in the UAE.
- Location: King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Sufouh 1
- Contact: +971-4-366-8888
WHAT CAN YOU DO THERE?
- Dine at world-class restaurants
- Relax and nourish your body, mind and soul at Talise Spa
- Indulge in water sports at the private beach
- Experience the rewarding mix of luxury and Arabic hospitality at one of the hotels
- Sail through the canal or enjoy a laid-back day at the beach
JA PALM TREE COURT
If you’re looking for all-inclusive resorts in Dubai, JA Palm Tree Court is one of your best bets. This family resort on the shores of Jebel Ali Beach offers a plethora of activities to keep you busy during your stay.
It’s also one of the top resorts in Dubai for couples, with rejuvenating spa experiences, and options to dine alfresco.
- Location: Mina Jebel Ali
- Contact: +971-4-814-5555
WHAT CAN YOU DO THERE?
- Play golf, tennis and football or go horse riding
- Try your hand at the shooting range
- Go kayaking, wakeboarding or paddleboarding
- Take the Seawings Seaplane tours
LE ROYAL MERIDIEN BEACH RESORT AND SPA
Like being in the middle of the action? You’ll love Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort. Counted amongst the opulent Le Meridien Hotels in Dubai, the resort is located in the buzzing hotspot of JBR.
This is one of the beachfront resorts in the UAE that has gorgeous landscaped gardens and private beaches, along with an infinity pool, kids’ splash pool and Roman-themed spa.
Those craving that adrenaline rush can try out the various water sports on offer here. Plus the trendy restaurants and shopping venues of JBR are a stone’s throw away.
- Location: Al Mamsha Street, Jumeirah Beach Residence
- Contact: +971-4-399-5555
WHAT CAN YOU DO THERE?
- Play Crazy Golf
- Indulge in water sports at the beach
- Play beach volleyball
- Let the little ones enjoy their time at the Family Kids Club
ONE&ONLY ROYAL MIRAGE
One of the high-end resorts in Dubai to watch out for is One&Only Royal Mirage, which is inspired by traditional Arabian architecture. This grand luxe beachfront property features elegant courtyards and fountains, along with lavish rooms, suites as well as beach villas.
Meanwhile, its destination spa is world-renowned and is just the place for a tranquil, indulgent retreat. For those looking to soak in the sun, this is one of the best resorts in Dubai, UAE with private beaches, which also offer water sports like kayaking, sailing and water skiing!
- Location: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Sufouh 1
- Contact: +971-4-399-9999
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Relax at the Oriental Hammam
- Take a leisurely swim in the pools
- Sign up for desert adventures
- Soak up the sun at the private beach
- Enjoy private dining
BURJ AL ARAB
This list would be incomplete without the mention of the iconic dhow-shaped Burj Al Arab! This resort has the luxury of having its own island and features sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai. There are plenty of things to do in Burj Al Arab, including a sleek infinity pool terrace and man-made beach, offering the ultimate resort experience.
Enjoy your meal at some of the city’s hottest and most exclusive restaurants and prepare to be pampered at the Talise Spa. Meanwhile, guests looking for resorts in the UAE with water parks will be thrilled to know that Burj Al Arab guests have unlimited access to Wild Wadi Waterpark!
- Location: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Sufouh 1
- Contact: +971-4-301-7777
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Spoil yourself at the Talise Spa
- Arrive in style on a helicopter
- Spend a day relaxing at the Burj Al Arab Terrace
- Dine underwater
- Enjoy rides and slides at Wild Wadi Waterpark
HOTEL RIU DUBAI
Our final mention for the best resorts to stay in Dubai, UAE is the new Hotel Riu Dubai. Located on the Deira Islands, RIU Hotel is an all-inclusive beachfront resort in the UAE that offers a variety of experiences and activities for the whole family.
There’s a spa for you to unwind and relax, a pool with swim-up bars and cabanas as well as a long stretch of beach where you can spend the day soaking the sun.
- Location: Deira Islands Beachfront
- Contact: +971-4-231-0998
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Enjoy lavish buffets at in-house restaurants
- Get a pampering session at the spa
- Relax on the sun loungers at the beach
- Spend a fun day with family at Splash Water World
- Let the kids enjoy fun activities at RiuLand
While this list of resorts in Dubai has picked the city’s finest, here are some other spots we think you should consider too.
- Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection
- The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
- Anantara the Palm Dubai Resort
- Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
- Caesars Resort Bluewaters
TOP RESORTS IN ABU DHABI
Looking for the best UAE resorts in the capital city? The amazing resorts in Abu Dhabi boast private pools, beaches, spas and gardens that guarantee an unforgettable experience. Here are the top-rated ones for you.
EMIRATES PALACE ABU DHABI
If you’re looking to indulge yourself in the ultimate luxury, book yourself a stay at the glitzy and glamorous Emirates Palace. It is set along 1.3 kilometres of private beach and acres of landscaped gardens. Emirates Palace is a magnificent, Arabian-inspired structure that’s a sight to behold, especially during the evenings.
Stay in lavishly appointed rooms, dine at 14 award-winning restaurants or bars, unwind with luxury spa treatments, take a dip in pristine pools or ride a camel on the beach. Truly one of the best luxury resorts in Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace promises a unique experience you’ll never forget.
- Location: West Corniche Street
- Contact: +971-2-690-9000
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Indulge in water sports
- Go cycling with friends and family
- Play tennis or football
- Take a leisurely swim in the pools
- Spend a day at the beach
- Relax at the spa
- Enjoy yacht cruises in the private marina
SAADIYAT ROTANA RESORT AND VILLAS
Have the vacation of a lifetime at the swanky Saadiyat Rotana Resort! Amongst the very best beach resorts in Abu Dhabi islands, Saadiyat Rotana features striking modern Arabic architecture and state-of-the-art facilities.
The resort’s pristine beaches and expansive swimming pools are the perfect places to enjoy the sun and sea. At this resort in the UAE, you get to stay in lavishly appointed rooms with a chance to indulge in fun activities for the whole family.
- Location: Off Abu Dhabi – Al Falah Road, Saadiyat Island
- Contact: +971-2-697-0000
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Relax at the beach
- Unwind at the Zen Spa
- Experience the Moroccan Hammam
- Play tennis or golf
- Take a swim in the pool
- Let the kids have a wonderful time at the Aladdin’s Cave
ANANTARA EASTERN MANGROVES ABU DHABI
Disconnect from your busy lifestyle and treat yourself to a serene retreat at the exquisite Anantara Eastern Mangroves — one of the Anantara hotels in Abu Dhabi. Their award-winning spa offers a complete suite of lavish treatments, while their luxe facilities include everything from Turkish hammams to relaxation lounges.
Indulge in their signature spa experiences and you’ll come out feeling like a new person. For a spot of adventure, the vast and lush mangroves bordering the resort offer plenty of opportunities for kayaking, while the attractions of the city are never too far, as well.
- Location: Off Abu Dhabi – Al Shahama Road, Al Kheeran
- Contact: +971-2-656-1000
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Go kayaking in the mangroves
- Indulge in relaxing treatments at the spa
- Unwind at the Turkish Hammam
- Enjoy waterfront swimming
SIR BANI YAS AL SAHEL VILLA RESORT
Looking for a resort in Abu Dhabi that gives you the perfect escape from city life? Experience a desert wildlife adventure at the Al Sahel Villa Resort, one of the best hotels on Sir Bani Yas Island!
This secluded island resort features 30 elegant villas in a lush savannah that has free-roaming animals like wild giraffes, Arabian oryxes, gazelles and peacocks, some of which come right up to the villas!
There is plenty to do, especially if you are into adventure and water sports! Sir Bani Yas is home to the best of Abu Dhabi luxury resorts, and Al Sahel is one not to miss.
- Location: Sir Bani Yas Island
- Contact: +971-2-365-9110
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Go for desert drives and nature walks
- Explore the wadis on mountain bikes or via land sailing
- Try kayaking or paddleboarding
- Get a taste of the delicious African cuisine at Savannah Grill
RITZ CARLTON ABU DHABI GRAND CANAL
The Ritz Carlton Grand Canal is set in an elegant Venetian-style building, set amongst 57 acres of gardens and pools.
Ideal for romantic getaways in Abu Dhabi, the Ritz Carlton offers sumptuous dining experiences across its eight restaurants. It offers access to private beaches and bedouin-inspired spas too. Best of all, the resort has fantastic views of the impressive Sheikh Zayed Mosque, which is a mere five minutes away for those who want to soak in the UAE’s culture.
- Location: Al Maqtaa Area
- Contact: +971-2-818-8888
WHAT CAN YOU DO THERE?
- Go for a swim
- Enjoy afternoon tea at Alba
- Relax at the poolside cabanas
- Spend a day at the private beach
Looking for more of the best Abu Dhabi resorts? Take a look at some of the other UAE resorts in Abu Dhabi.
- The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort and Spa
- Sir Bani Yas Desert Island Resort and Spa
- Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana
- Zaya Nurai Island Resort
- Rixos Saadiyat Island
BEST RESORTS IN SHARJAH
The family-friendly emirate of Sharjah is also home to affordable resorts in the UAE, which have a plethora of facilities. If you want to explore one of UAE’s culture-rich cities, here are the best resorts in Sharjah.
SHERATON SHARJAH BEACH RESORT AND SPA
One of the cheap resorts in the UAE, Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort guarantees a good time for the whole family. Its splendid Arabian architecture will take your breath away while the numerous leisure facilities will keep entertained during your stay.
- Location: Al Muntazah Street, Sharjah
- Contact: +971-6-563-0000
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Relax on private beaches
- Take a swim in the outdoor pools
- Enjoy a game of volleyball or table tennis
- Dine at the six awesome restaurants
CORAL BEACH RESORT SHARJAH
This is one of the cheaper beach resorts in Sharjah, that comes with a spa, fitness centre and kid’s club. Unwind at this leafy resort with spa treatments while the kids have a ball at the pool slides. Meanwhile, the four restaurants at this resort in Sharjah, offering Emirati, Italian and seafood cuisines, will satisfy any hunger cravings.
- Location: Al Muntazah Street, Sharjah Corniche
- Contact: +971-6-522-9999
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Enjoy a stress-free day at the beach
- Get pampered at the spa
- Work out at the fitness centre
- Let the kids have a fun-filled time at the Aladdin Kids’ Club
TOP RESORTS IN AJMAN
While Ajman is the country’s smallest emirate, there’s no doubt that it has some of the best luxury resorts in the UAE. If you’re looking for affordable staycations with plenty to do, here are MyBayut’s top picks for resorts in Ajman.
FAIRMONT AJMAN
One of the emirate’s swankiest resorts, Fairmont Ajman is a popular choice with tourists and residents looking at Ajman resorts for staycations. The gorgeous views of the Arabian Gulf instantly chase your worries away. The impressive infinity pool and luxury spa complete the serene feeling.
There are fun games and activities for the little ones too. Needless to say, Fairmont Ajman is amongst the best family beach resorts in the UAE. The little ones will be thrilled by the kid’s pool, kid’s club and most importantly, Ajman’s only inflatable water park, Aqua Bounce.
- Location: Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street, Ajman
- Contact: +971-6-701-5757
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Take a swim in the pool
- Have a blast at Aqua Bounce, the inflated pool park in Ajman
- Work out at the health club
- Enjoy relaxing treatments at the spa
- Relax on the beach
- Play golf
AJMAN SARAY, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT
As the name suggests, Ajman Saray offers a luxurious stay with idyllic beaches, landscaped pathways and gentle fountains. If you’re looking for a beach resort in Ajman to rejuvenate, the amber, pink and blue hues of Ajman Saray will do the trick.
Dine on gourmet cuisine at the resort’s six restaurants and lounges, enjoy relaxed strolls along the private beach or swim in beachfront pools.
- Location: Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street, Ajman
- Contact: +971-6-714-2222
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Enjoy seamless views of the ocean from your room
- Relax at the hotel spa or enjoy some poolside drinks after a swim
- Hit the beach for some laid-back lounging in the sun
- Enjoy the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines at the restaurants
THE OBEROI, AL ZORAH RESORT
Escape to the serene location of Al Zorah, which borders protected mangroves, sandy beaches and lagoons teeming with marine life. The Oberoi Resort itself is a contemporary retreat, complete with exquisitely designed spaces and vast sea views.
Those looking for resorts in the UAE for couples to unwind can’t go wrong with The Oberoi. This place offers privacy and comfort at its best. Some rooms here come with private gardens and terraces. You can even book a villa with a private pool for added privacy.
- Location: Off Al Ittihad Street (E11), Al Zorah
- Contact: +971-6-504-4888
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Play golf at the championship golf course nearby.
- Turn up the heat with water sports activities.
- Enjoy mouth-watering, healthy cuisine at the resort’s restaurants.
BEST RESORTS IN UMM AL QUWAIN
Umm Al Quwain is a small, serene emirate in the north of the UAE around a lagoon featuring mangrove islands. The major attraction here is the Dreamland Aqua Park, one of the oldest and largest water parks in the UAE.
If you want to take a break from city life, then head over to Umm Al Quwain’s beach resorts, which promises a hip, retro vibe.
PALMA BEACH RESORT AND SPA
One of the best resorts in Umm Al Quwain is the Palma Beach Resort, which features an Ancient Egyptian theme, coupled with modern amenities! Enjoy your stay in the comfortable and spacious chalets that open onto a stretch of private beach.
The water sports activities and water park for kids will guarantee fun for everyone, while those looking for a refresher can pay a visit to the spa.
- Location: Al Khor, Next to UAQ Marine Club
- Contact: +971-6-766-7090
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Cool down in the indoor swimming pool
- Relax in the jacuzzi
- Spend the day lounging on the beach
- Enjoy water sports and lets the kids run wild at the water park
BARRACUDA BEACH RESORT
This beachfront resort is located right next to Dreamland Aqua Park, a must-visit attraction in the emirate. Barracuda is ideal for an affordable staycation with the family, with activities and facilities for all ages.
The rooms are designed to guarantee a comfortable stay. Whether you want to relax or are looking for fun and play, Barracuda is one of the cheap resorts in UAE that you can stay at.
- Location: Khor Al Baida, Near Dreamland Aqua Park
- Contact: +971-6-768-1555
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Play volleyball, basketball or outdoor sports
- Enjoy indoor games like billiards and table tennis
- Take a swim in the infinity pool
- Enjoy a delicious meal at the resort’s multi-cuisine restaurant
PEARL HOTEL AND SPA
Our final mention for Umm Al Quwain resorts is the Pearl Hotel and Spa which is ideal for a quiet getaway over the weekend. Relax amongst swaying palm trees and gently lapping waves of the Arabian Gulf.
- Location: Next to Gulf Craft Shipyard
- Contact: +971-6-766-6678
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- The hotel spa is the perfect place to refresh and rejuvenate
- Dine at the restaurants serving Filipino, Bavarian and other international cuisines
- Lounge at the beach or take a swim in the pool
- Go kayaking or jet skiing
LUXURY RESORTS IN RAS AL KHAIMAH
Ras Al Khaimah has carved a niche for itself when it comes to luxury resorts, offering both seaside and desert experiences unlike any other. Some of the best luxury resorts in the UAE are to be found in this emirate, which is also home to the magnificent Hajar Mountain range.
THE RITZ CARLTON RAS AL KHAIMAH, AL WADI DESERT
Rediscover the magnificent deserts of the UAE at the swanky Ritz Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, which brings together the ultimate comfort and adventure at one of the best desert luxury resorts in the UAE.
Here, amid the rolling sand dunes, you’ll stay in sumptuous Bedouin-style villas with elegant finishing with premier facilities to make your stay memorable. This is also one of the best resorts in RAK for the variety of activities it offers to all guests.
- Location: Off Al Shohada Road, Al Mazraa, Wadi Khadija
- Contact: +971-7-206-7777
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Indulge in spa treatments
- Treat yourself to the resort’s premier dining venues
- Go bird watching or take long nature walks
- Experience star gazing at night
- Try archery or horseback riding
THE COVE ROTANA RESORT
You’ll be awestruck when you first see The Cove Rotana Resort — inspired by Arabian architecture and designed with Nubian influences, set along an inlet of the Arabian Gulf.
It’s one of the best Ras Al Khaimah family resorts with private stretches of beach and more for the perfect family getaway.
- Location: Al Jazeera Al Hamra Road, Al Dhait South
- Contact: +971-7-206-6000
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Swim in the infinity pools
- Relax at the spa or work out at the gym
- Try out motorised and non-motorised water sports
- Sign up for some kickboxing
- Build some sandcastles on the beach
WALDORF ASTORIA RAS AL KHAIMAH
One of the most iconic resorts in Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE, Waldorf Astoria offers the ultimate seaside getaway. This palatial resort offers elegantly appointed rooms, ten restaurants, lounges, temperature-controlled pools and pristine beaches.
The award-winning spa here offers signature treatments such as dry floatation experiences, body polishes, facials and cleansing treatments. The lush, 18-hole championship golf course next to the Waldorf Astoria RAK resort also offers plenty of opportunities for an exciting game.
- Location: Vienna Street, Ras Al Khaimah
- Contact: +971-7-203-5555
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Enjoy the private stretch of beach
- Play golf
- Indulge in luxury spa treatments
- Experience the thrill of water sports
- Swim in temperature-controlled pools
BEST RESORTS IN FUJAIRAH
Situated between the Hajar Mountains and the vast Indian Ocean, Fujairah is one of the most picturesque emirates in the UAE. Things to do in Fujairah range from snorkelling and kayaking to hiking. Discover the best resorts in Fujairah when you’re craving tranquil retreats, attentive service and state-of-the-art facilities.
FAIRMONT FUJAIRAH BEACH RESORT
Stay in one of Fujairah’s best resorts, inspired by art! From the gorgeous pool to the stylish rooms, every part of Fairmont Fujairah is inspired by art deco and bohemian styles, with arabesque influences.
This is one of the luxury family resorts in the UAE that will leave you feeling relaxed and at peace with charming pathways, lawns and views of the Indian Ocean.
- Location: Off Rugaylat Road, Mina Al Fajer
- Contact: +971-9-204-1111
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Go flyboarding, kayaking, snorkelling or jet skiing
- Go for a swim or sign up for yoga or Zumba
- Hit the jogging trails
- Go hiking in the Hajar Mountains
- Try the spin bike or take the mountain bike tour
FUJAIRAH ROTANA RESORT AND SPA
This massive beachside resort is the perfect spot for a family staycation over long weekends. Set amidst leafy gardens and alongside crystal beaches, Fujairah Rotana promises an exciting time for its guests.
- Location: Dibba Road, Al Aqah Beach
- Contact: +971-9-244-9888
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Play football, tennis and beach volleyball
- Play table tennis
- Take a dip in the pool and refresh in the sauna
LE MERIDIEN AL AQAH BEACH RESORT
Take in the stunning backdrop of the Hajar Mountains from Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort. The ideal family resort, Le Meridien Al Aqah is perfect for those who want a seaside adventure.
With comfortable rooms and a bunch of fun activities for guests, Le Meridien Al Aqah is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Fujairah UAE
- Location: Off Rugaylat Road, Beside Al Aqah Beach
- Contact: +971-9-244-9000
WHAT CAN YOU DO HERE?
- Indulge in water sports
- Test your stamina at the obstacle course
- Climb a wall or take a zip line
- Enjoy delicious food at the in-house restaurants
FAQs
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO STAY AT A RESORT IN THE UAE?
The UAE has a diverse range of opulent beach and desert resorts that offer a tranquil escape for holidaymakers. The room prices may vary depending on the season and the room you pick. The standard room charges for resorts in the UAE may start from AED 500 onwards for a 5-star destination.
DOES UAE HAVE A SKI RESORT?
It doesn’t snow in the UAE but there are some attractions that offer an experience of a ski resort in the desert. Ski Dubai at the Mall of the Emirates is one of the most popular places to experience sub-zero temperatures where you can ski, snowboard and meet real penguins. Similarly, Snow World at the Marina Mall is an upcoming indoor ski resort in Abu Dhabi.
And that brings an end to MyBayut’s list of best resorts in the UAE! We hope this helps you plan your dream vacation or staycation in any of the UAE’s cities. You’ll also love our ultimate guides to things to do in Abu Dhabi and activities in Dubai!
Stay tuned to MyBayut for more updates on attractions and resorts in the UAE.
