Enjoy peaceful luxury at these popular desert resorts in the UAE
From indoor amusement parks to watersports and everything in between — there is so much for tourists to see and do in the UAE. While the country’s hotels are considered some of the best in the world, desert resorts are popular options for tourists looking for unique experiences. Here are the best luxury desert resorts in the UAE.
Please note that the booking rates are subject to change.
Desert Resorts in Abu Dhabi
Are you looking to get away from it all? You can make reservations at these stunning desert resorts in Abu Dhabi.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara UAE
The Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is an excellent option for a luxurious stay in a tranquil desert. The hotel’s location in the Empty Quarter (aka – the Rub Al Khail desert) makes it ideal for guests who want a complete break from city life. As for accommodation, guests can choose from opulent rooms, suites or private villas. The resort boasts 140 rooms, 51 pool villas and 14 suites.
From traversing the largest sand desert in the world to camel rides and Moroccan hammams, there is much to see and do at this resort. Visitors can choose from various offers at the Qasr Al Sarab resort for a budget-friendly staycation. Furthermore, you can book the Royal Pavilions Villas by Qasr Al Sarab for a truly exclusive stay. The standalone villas are located half a kilometre from the main resort.
- Booking Rate: From AED 1,071 per night
- Location: 1 Qasr Al Sarab Road
- Contact: +971-2-895-8700
Tilal Liwa Hotel
The Tilal Liwa Hotel in Madinat Zayed is another impressive option for a desert hotel resort in the UAE. It is located on the edge of the Empty Quarter in the Liwa Oasis, one of the best oases in the UAE. With a design inspired by Arabic architecture, the hotel is ideal for those who want to experience desert living at its best.
The hotel has 111 suites/rooms, three restaurants and bars, a spa and a gift store. Guests can engage in quad biking, camel rides, bonfires, sand boarding and dune bashing. The resort is easily accessible thanks to a convenient location along the Sila Highway near the Mezzaira Village.
- Booking Rate: From AED 221 per night
- Location: Madinat Zayed
- Contact: +971-2-894-6112
Telal Resort Al Ain
This five-star resort is situated on the outskirts of Al Ain within the Remah Desert — the former home of nomadic Bedouin tribes. It is home to the Zaman Lawal Heritage Village. In this village, visitors can shop at a local souk, explore the House of Pearls or dine at the Khattar Restaurant.
Accommodation choices at the Telal Resort Al Ain include villas, rooms and suites — each of which has benefits. For example, the Heritage Deluxe Room features a furnished terrace and hammock with stunning views of the Remah Desert.
The 4-bedroom Arabian Oryx Royal Pool Villa with a private swimming pool and private dining area is a fabulous choice for a large family.
- Booking Rate: From AED 518 per night
- Location: Rehmah, Al Ain
- Contact: +971-3-702-0000
Al Wathba – a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa
Spa treatments, 99 guest rooms and villas, and myriad dining options make Al Wathba one of the best desert resorts in the UAE. Naturally considered amongst the best luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi, this desert paradise is popular for corporate meetings and weddings thanks to massive event spaces.
Facilities provided include state-of-the-art boardrooms and more. Additionally, guests can take advantage of a 24-hour fitness centre and swimming pool.
- Booking Rate: From AED 588 per night
- Location: Al Wathba South
- Contact: +971-2-204-4444
Desert resorts in Dubai
You can consider a stay at these Dubai desert resorts for a truly memorable vacation or staycation.
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa UAE
The Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa is perhaps the most popular desert hotel in Dubai. From stone alleyways to lush green gardens and fountains, it’s the ultimate oasis retreat. Arabian architecture and a location between the dunes make it an ideal getaway for travellers searching for accommodation inspired by the country’s nomadic past. Adding to its charm are several restaurants, a spa and infinity pools that provide stunning views of the surrounding desert.
Desert activities are part of a stay at this resort. Apart from the signature camel ride, guests can play desert tennis, go on guided nature walks, enjoy falconry, archery and more.
The Bab Al Shams Desert Resort is located on Al Qudra Road and is one of the most popular resorts in the UAE. It takes about 30 minutes for visitors to reach it from central Dubai. The nearest airport, Al Maktoum International Airport, is 40 minutes away.
- Booking Rate: Contact them to know
- Location: Al Qudra Road
- Contact: babalshams.com
Al Maha – Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa
Al Maha Resort and Spa deserves a place on our list of the best desert resorts in the UAE. This private guest-only retreat is nestled within the beautiful Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, which is home to a range of desert species like the Arabian oryx and sand fox. Guests can view the reserve’s animal inhabitants from a sundeck or temperature-controlled infinity pool. Additionally, they are offered two desert activities as part of their stay, free of charge!
Guests can enjoy the world-class dining, spa and fitness facilities at this Dubai UAE resort. A prominent example is the Al Diwaan fine dining restaurant, where diners can enjoy international and traditional cuisine outside on the veranda.
- Booking Rate: From AED 3,273 per night
- Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
- Contact: +971-4-832-9900
Desert resorts in Ras Al Khaimah
The northernmost emirate has a vast desert, which is home to a lovely desert resort.
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah – Al Wadi Desert
Discover the country’s traditional roots in the lap of luxury at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert. Available living units are Bedouin-style villas with private decks, pools, bathrooms and lounge areas. Adding to the charm are floor-to-ceiling windows where you can fully admire the desert views.
This RAK-based resort is what dreams are made of. Plus, it is a great choice for a relaxing summer staycation in Ras Al Khaimah. Guests can dine at any of four venues, including the “farm-to-table” Farmhouse and the open-air Moon Bar. Aside from exemplary cuisine, the resort bars and restaurants offer a visual treat thanks to the picturesque backdrop of the RAK desert.
A prominent feature here is The Rainforest — a spa service that combines traditional Middle Eastern bathing rituals and European hydrothermal techniques. The experience includes 16 different stations ending with a relaxing time on a lounger.
The resort has an Equestrian Centre, which offers riding lessons on horses, camels and ponies. Furthermore, you can ask the concierge for available activities like camel rides and archery. For some downtime, head to the Oasis Pool and Bar.
- Booking Rate: From 1,741 per night
- Location: Al Mazraa, Wadi Khadija
- Contact: +971-7-206-7777
Desert resorts in Sharjah
The following luxury desert resorts in the UAE are located in the country’s cultural capital, Sharjah.
Mysk Al Badayer Retreat
Take a peek into the history of the Emirati lifestyle laced with luxury at Mysk Al Badayer Retreat. Your choice of accommodation includes 21 rooms and ten tents — equipped with amenities to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible. Have a thirst for adventure? Sign up for a day of desert safaris, stargazing, dune bashing or falconry. Those who want to walk on the wild side can explore the Sharjah desert terrain on mountain bikes or take a hike in the nearby mountains.
For dining, there is Al Madam restaurant which offers a buffet breakfast. Diners can indulge in a sumptuous dinner or lunch here. You’ll be spoilt for choice with a range of international and regional fare!
- Booking Rate: From AED 550 per night
- Location: Mysk Al Badayer, Al Badayer
- Contact: +971-6-801-2000
Mysk Kingfisher Retreat
Are you looking for other desert escapes? Consider a stay at the Mysk Kingfisher Retreat. Set on the coast of Sharjah, it’s the perfect destination for a hybrid beach and desert getaway. You can stay in any of the 20 luxury tents with plunge pools.
Enjoy tranquil surroundings in private furnished tents overlooking the Indian Ocean — each has a king-size bed, private pool and outdoor seating. The nearby mangroves are home to several bird species and a turtle breeding area. Furthermore, there is an all-day dining space offering a buffet and a set menu.
- Booking Rate: From AED 1,430 per night
- Location: Khor Kalba
- Contact: +971-9-201-1900
Aside from the mentioned hotels, you can opt for a stay at the Mysk Al Faya Retreat located in the Mileiha region — one of the Mysk retreats in Sharjah. The area was nominated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and offers visitors a chance to explore places like ancient caves, artefacts and even tombs from the Bronze Age.
Frequently Asked Questions
How remote are these desert resorts in the UAE?
Most UAE desert resorts are located along an emirate’s outskirts. It may take visitors anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes to reach these venues from the main cities.
How do I make a reservation at these desert resorts in the UAE?
Check the official websites of these UAE desert resort hotels to book your stay.
Do resorts in the UAE desert offer fun activities?
The top desert resorts in the UAE offer different entertainment activities for their guests. Apart from the staple camel ride, these activities can include desert hikes, safaris, falconry and more.
That concludes our guide to the best desert resorts in the UAE. We hope you enjoy your stay amidst the country’s stunning natural beauty.
Were you looking for a beach break instead? Many beautiful beach resorts in Abu Dhabi are well worth a staycation. Stay tuned to MyBayut for more updates on the best local attractions in the emirates!
(Cover Image credit: Al Maha – Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa)
