The Best Luxury Desert Resorts in UAE
Luxury Desert Resorts in United Arab Emirates
Have you admired all the skyscrapers and shopped like a freak in Dubai? Fallen in love with the beaches at Abu Dhabi? Brushed up your history knowledge at the museums in RAK? Now, it’s time to reconnect with nature in your own lavish pool and dive into the sandy slopes on your doorsteps.
No trip to the UAE is complete without exploring the beauty of the desert. And the best bet to experience in the luxury treat and retreat beyond the cityscapes is the range of desert resorts in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and its other emirates. The towering dunes and arid plants of the desert might make it uninhabitable, but that doesn’t stop the country from cropping up the fancy hotels on the sand. Many travelers do not know that their desert trip could be tied with such high-end stays.
A combination of elegant services and the jaw-dropping views from the balcony, these resorts are like castles.
Why choose a luxury desert resort?
When you think of stunning destinations to stay and relax, islands and beaches are the first thoughts to strike. However, the untamed desert is an equally delightful option, with a backdrop of mountains, expanse of rare sights, and source of adrenaline-pumping activities. And having a resort with sundeck and infinity pool is the oasis of calm.
Here are a few reasons to once must try living in the eccentric desert resorts in UAE-
- Enjoy the tranquility and escape the chaos of the city.
- Serenity and sophistication side by side.
- Amenities as spa, pools, wifi, and restaurants.
- Accompanied by abundant desert activities.
- Casual dining overlooking the golden sand dunes.
Here is the round-up of the 8 desert resorts in UAE that are perfect for a family fun time-
Anantara Qasr Al Sarab
-Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort, Abu Dhabi
Isn’t it spectacular to be lying around the grand pool nestled just outside your private villa? 140 rooms, 14 suites and 52 pool villas and endless stretch of sand, Anantara Qasr Al Sarab is one of the UAE’s best-admired resorts and 3 hr. distance from Dubai Airport. Make yourself at home in exceptional comfort and relaxing setting to marvel at the seamless dunes baked in the sun. It’s an opulent set up with traditional arabesque touches. Lounge by the poolside, soothe your senses in the spa, bash the dunes in 4WD and dine under the starlit sky.

Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort and Spa
-Al Wathba District, 50 KM South East, Abu Dhabi
50 km from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and in the vicinity of the airport, the Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort and Spa is an absolutely pleasant itinerary to add for a short stopover. 103 rooms and villas along with that feature timeless pieces, traditional artwork, and Arabesque accessories. The 10 spa and yoga rooms will help you to step away from the clamor and breathe in peace. Enjoy sundowners at the lantern-lit rooftop bar and gaze at the stars in the evening. To get closer to the Bedouin lifestyle, you can sit in the traditional desert camp dinner.

Arabian Nights Village
-Arabian Nights Village Rd, Abu Dhabi
A resort that embraces the epic adventures of this evocative landscape and gives an alternative to the modern resorts in the Arabian Nights Village. Settled in a green and verdant oasis, this is an unusual blend of Bedouin-influenced designs with sophisticated equipment and amenities. And what are you here for? Fun, right? Elevate your desert trip to Abu Dhabi with a great overnight trip. Light a fire, sing the hymns, sip alcohol and sleep under the beautiful sky. Sand boarding, camel rides, ATV ride, and dune bashing are the entertainment add ons.

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa
-Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Ain Rd, Dubai
With a 45-minute ride from Downtown, reach this one of the dynamic luxury resorts in Dubai nestled in the Desert Conservation Reserve. Its dramatic landscape alone – tucked away in gorgeous green surroundings, overlooking Hajjar Mountains – is pure indulgence. The 42 stand-alone private villas combine the 5-star services with authentic regional antiques. There are heaps of desert activities that can keep you and the folks, friends or kids entertained for long. Or else, simply unwind in the secluded area. Or lounge by the reserved pool, get pampered in the spa and dine under the stars.
Bab Al Shams
-Al Qudra Road, Opposite Endurance City, Dubai
Sweeping vistas, unequaled hospitality, and lush serenity, the low-lying Bab Al Shams is the finest resort the world could ask for. Its rustic charm, temperature-controlled pools, and desert adventure inspire you to see the unique side of Dubai. From tucking into sumptuous cuisine to going for nature walks, from riding horses and camels to watching the cornucopia of wildlife – the visit here is both relaxing and rejuvenating. Raise the spirits by booking the desert safari Dubai and heading out for an excursion of a lifetime.
Ritz Carlton Al Wadi Desert
–Al Mazraa, Wadi Khadija, Ras al Khaimah
This haven of peace, the epitome of romantic luxury and a blend of contemporary comfort and local heritage is the region’s first desert resort to offer an all-pool villa concept. Either your friends need an Asian-inspired hydrotherapy spa or bae want to unwind at a quiet beach, this resort fits in your bill. The wildlife lovers can interact with the Arabian gazelles and camels in a dedicated nature reserve. To ameliorate the already-outstanding experience in the tented pool villas, the resort allows the discerning travelers to enjoy a complimentary guided nature walk, archery school, a falconry show, and kid-friendly activities. Also, it’s strategic location provides easy access to the notable landmarks of Ras Al Khaimah.
Kingfisher Lounge
– Kalba City, Sharjah
20 luxury tents complete with plunge pools and affording a view of the Indian Ocean, The Kingfisher Lounge reveals the essence of the Emirate through accommodation, adventure, and heritage. The impeccable services and amenities like the secluded pools and barbecues for each tent invigorate the travelers. Bask in the rich culture and picturesque vista around. While you soak in the surroundings, the roster of outdoor adventures ranging from water to land kicks the adrenal glands, such as kayaking, paddle-boarding, bird-watching, cycling and more.
Telal Resort Al Ain
– Remah, Al Ain
Perched in the desert of Al Ain city, overlooking a natural conservation area, the Tela Resort creates an unforgettable visit for the guest. It offers the unusual opportunity of reliving the Arabian lifestyle, the modern style. The exquisite resort ticks off all kinds of features and facilities that promise a great getaway. Outdoor swimming pool, wellness center, jacuzzi, personal chef, spa and a heap of thrilling activities are just a few to name. From zip-lining and archery to camel riding and sand boarding, travelers can embark on a journey to seek the local culture.
Final Thoughts
So, the next time you are in UAE, book any of these resorts which boast sleek interior and fascinating outdoors. It gives time to participate in the traditional Bedouin experiences, look at the desert from a unique perspective and try something new and different.
Have you been to the United Arab Emirates? Let us know in a comment below about your favorite experience there.
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UAE has been on our bucket list for years and I just never knew where to start planning! Thank you! All those resorts look stunning!
I’m glad to help!
They all look so beautiful I would have a hard time choosing!!
They are gorgeous!
This looks beautiful! I would absolutely love to visit.
Me too, Pam. The idea of luxury in the desert intrigues me to no end.
They certainly look like an unique experience in the desert.
I would visit any of these luxury resorts in a heartbeat. Maybe someday!
What an awesome experience. It looks like an oasis!
Agreed! An oasis in the desert for sure. 🙂
Looks like a gorgeous place!
Absolutely! The UAE is a dream come true travel destination.
We have not been to UAE. I do like amenities like a spa and pool.
Oh, yes! Pools and spa options are a must.
I have not been! I love a nice relaxing vacation and this looks perfect!
Agreed Lisa!
These all look so amazing. The Arabian Nights Village and the Al Maha Resort are the two that I’m most intrigued by.
Excellent choices!
I’ve never been to UAE. These resorts look awesome! I love that you are away from it all, but there is still so much to do!
Yes! UAE is incredible and packed full of things to see and do options.
I really know very little about the UAE, it looks so cool though. That Al Maha looks incredible! How is it priced compared to USD?
As a luxury resort, I can’t lie, they can be quite pricy. If you have luxury accommodations in your budget, these resorts are the best.
I want to stay at all of them! Who knew you could find such luxury in the desert?!
Yes! Any of these resorts would be magical!
Wow this looks absolutely amazing! The UAE is definitely on my list!
Mine too! Right at the very top of that list. 🙂
These look so dreamy! I would totally book a stay at one of these luxury desert resorts!
Thanks Jordin!
All of these are so beautiful! I’d be happy to stay at any of these. Maybe someday!
UAE is totally at the top of my bucket list too. 🙂
Wow, these resorts look amazing. I would happily stay in any of them. My cousins have been to the UAE and loved it so it on my list.
Excellent! If you need lodging ideas when you visit, please keep these resorts in mind.
I love the water so thinking of the desert is hard to remember when trip planning. If I do go though, this would exactly be my style
There’s still plenty of water to enjoy.
These are great places. My husband has been to Dubai, but I have not!
Maybe a family trip is in order? Your hubby could show you around!
Gorgeous photos.
Thank you!!
I would gladly stay in any of these resorts! Some of them look like they are straight out of my dreams! Thank you so much for putting this list together!
You’re welcome Trisha. I’m always glad to help!
Couldn’t go wrong with any of these beautiful resorts. UAE is on our list!
Agreed! Any of them would be a perfect choice.
When I see pictures of UAE, they make me want to visit!! The buildings are just stunning!