Embark on a journey of relaxation and luxury with a curated selection of the eight best desert hotels in the UAE. These exquisite retreats, nestled amidst the captivating landscapes of the Arabian desert, offer an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. From luxurious accommodations to unparalleled hospitality, each hotel promises an unforgettable getaway, providing guests with the perfect opportunity to unwind and immerse themselves in the serenity of the desert surroundings.
1. Al Maha
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Al Maha is an eco-resort located in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, an hour outside Dubai, named after the UAE’s national animal. Here, oryx, camels, and gazelles freely roam the grounds, adding to the romantic ambience. The resort offers luxurious stand-alone tented villas with private infinity pools, blending modernity with Bedouin living. Indulge in all-day dining at Al Diwaan or rejuvenate at the Timeless Spa. Activities include archery, nature walks, and camel treks. Later, head to JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai for a traditional Iftar dinner at the rooftop venue Aqua beneath the stars.
Where: N 55° – 24°47’21.3 – 36’27.8″E Al Ain – Dubai Rd
Cost: Starts at AED5500 per day
2. Bab Al Shams
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Bab Al Shams, Dubai’s iconic desert resort, has reopened as part of Kerzner International’s Rare Finds collection. Initially designed for Dubai’s equestrian community, the resort offers a blend of desert tranquillity and modern luxury. With 115 guest rooms and suites, lush gardens, and dining options ranging from Middle Eastern to Ottoman and Greek-inspired cuisine, Bab Al Shams promises an unforgettable getaway. Families can enjoy entertainment, including belly dancers, musicians, falconers, and pet camels.
Where: Al Qudra Road (opposite Endurance City) – Dubai
Cost: Starts at AED1200 per day
Also Read: 10 Beach Resorts In Dubai For The Ultimate Staycation With Family Or Friends
3. Terra Solis
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Dubai’s newest camping experience, Terra Solis, curated by the team behind Tomorrowland, offers poolside beats and day-to-night parties amid 37 hectares of secluded dunes in Dubai South. With 48 opulent tents, 20 lodges, and six poolside cabins, guests can choose from three accommodation options: Polaris tents, Perseid lodges, or Orion pool lodges. Enjoy Mediterranean bites from the restaurant Mesa, inspired by Tomorrowland’s “Tastes of the World” cuisine, while resident DJs keep the atmosphere lively at the resort’s poolside.
Where: Dubai Heritage Vision Exit,29 Jebel Ali- Dubai
Cost: Starts at AED900 per day
4. The Nest by Sonara
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Opened last September, The Nest, from the team behind Nara Desert Escape, offers 14 luxurious ‘nests’ nestled in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Each nest features a double bed, en suite bathroom, and private terrace for a lavish experience. Guests can enjoy activities like dune bashing and hot air ballooning or embark on a sky safari to observe the night sky and learn about well-known astronomers from knowledgeable tour guides.
Where: Margham Desert, Al Ain – Dubai Rd
Cost: Starts at AED2340 per day (per nest)
5. Bab Al Nojoum Bateen Liwa
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Bab Al Nojoum unveils the luxurious Bateen Liwa on the edge of Abu Dhabi’s Empty Quarter. This world-class resort offers beautiful villas with private pools, BBQ pits, and Emirati heritage-inspired amenities. Guests can enjoy sandboarding, camel farm visits, and nighttime activities like stargazing and outdoor movie nights. With palatial villas providing uninterrupted views of the desert, Bateen Liwa promises a distinct and indulgent retreat in the UAE.
Where: 2P5C+4Q – Mzeerʻah – Abu Dhabi
Cost: Starts at AED750 per day
6. Ritz Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert
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Located within the 1,235-acre Al Wadi Nature Reserve, The Ritz-Carlton in Ras Al Khaimah offers a luxurious getaway amidst nature. Explore the desert landscape, enjoy spa experiences like the rainforest journey, and savour prime cuts of meat at Steakhouse Farmhouse. Guests can enjoy a private pool and sundeck cabana in each tented villa, perfect for wildlife spotting and activities such as nature walks, horseback riding, etc. For a unique dining experience, guests can opt for a desert dinner under the stars with a personal chef and butler.
Where: Al Mazraa Wadi -Ras al Khaimah
Cost: Starts at around AED2000 per day
7. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort By Anantara
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In just 650 days, Qasr Al Sarab emerged as a blend of Bedouin heritage and Emirati opulence, commissioned by the UAE’s rulers. With 207 rooms, suites, and pool villas, the fortress-like resort offers stunning views recognised from Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Dune. Located in the Empty Quarter, guests can enjoy desert activities or relax by the pools, including a new adults-only infinity pool. Each restaurant and bar offers desert views, with private dining experiences for a memorable stay.
Where: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort – Al Mirayr – Abu Dhabi
Cost: Starts at around AED1400 per day
Also Read: 8 Hotels And Resorts Within An Hour’s Drive From Dubai That Combine Convenience With Luxury
8. Telal Resort Al Ain
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Nestled near Al Ain, this boutique desert resort features fewer than 25 suites and villas, offering breathtaking views of the Remah desert. Retaining traditional charm with carved furniture and Arabesque artworks, it boasts luxurious amenities like private pools and Jacuzzis. Located on former Bedouin stomping grounds, the hotel offers rich heritage experiences. Approximately an 80-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport, guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the natural conservation area and engage in activities like ziplining, quad biking, and archery.
Where: Remah Desert – Abu Dhabi
Cost: Starts at around AED1000 per day
Experience the epitome of desert luxury and tranquillity with these Hotels across the UAE’s stunning landscapes, from the eco-friendly elegance of Al Maha to the modern opulence of Bab Al Shams, promising an unforgettable escape from the ordinary.
Cover Image Courtesy: Al Maha and Bab Al Nojoum Bateen Liwa
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