Those who have spent even a few days in Abu Dhabi will be familiar with the opulence of the city’s high-end hotels, resorts, and beach clubs. What is less widely known, however, is that this same standard of sophistication extends deep into the desert, where some of the most exclusive retreats await. Scattered across the golden sands are ultra-secluded resorts and private camps designed to meet the needs of the world’s most discerning. Read on to discover everything you need to know about Abu Dhabi’s finest desert escapes.
Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
In the furthest reaches of the Abu Dhabi desert, far past Al Beda'a Protected Area and on towards the Saudi Arabian border, sits the tranquil desert oasis of Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort. Thanks to its home in the Empty Quarter, the resort is about as secluded as it gets, and forms the ideal location for those who are looking for quality rest and rejuvenation.
Visitors can enjoy calming sun-drenched mornings, which give way to star-studded desert night skies, all while taking advantage of some of the resort’s outstanding amenities. Anantara Qasr Al Sarab boasts 140 rooms, 14 suites and 53 pool villas, complemented by a serene desert spa and Moroccan hammam.
A range of desert experiences are waiting to be explored, such as laser clay shooting, buggy rides, stargazing, camel trekking and horse riding. In addition to a variety of sports on site, guests can take advantage of the relaxing infinity pool, while Technogym workouts allow you to keep on top of your fitness goals, even while taking a break from everyday life.
The sophistication continues through the 9,178 sq ft Al Sarab Villa, which offers an in-villa BBQ dinner with a private chef, a dedicated villa butler and a complimentary buggy for those impromptu rides out into the desert. The villa also boasts expansive exteriors and a covered swimming pool, ideal for al fresco evening get-togethers.
Bateen Liwa Resort (Bab Al Nojoum)
A few kilometres after the end of Sheikha Salama bint Butti Road (E45) – a short distance from the settlement of Mzeerʻah – you will find the Bateen Liwa Resort, a small upscale hotel designed for families and friends who are looking for more than just your average weekend getaway.
With a range of one-, two- and three-bedroom villas available, guests can take advantage of more exclusive services like the in-villa personal chef, al fresco dining spaces with exquisite views of the clear night sky and the on-site 28 Degrees Restaurant.
While visitors can relax by the plunge pool of their private villa, they also have the option to book one of the thrilling desert adventures on offer. Choose from a comprehensive selection of experiences, such as trekking, sandboarding, dune bashing or a selection of motorised biking opportunities, among many other things.
The complex insists on a zero-waste policy, while conscious cuisine and limited use of plastic are some of the resort’s other admirable policies – positioning Bateen Liwa as an ideal location for those who value sustainability.
Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi
A little closer to the city, but no less exclusive, sits Al Wathba resort. This exceptional Marriott property offers an intimate desert retreat, imbued with the natural beauty that visitors to the Abu Dhabi desert have come to expect.
Tranquillity abounds here, thanks to the breathtaking Saray Spa. Unfolding across 2,200 square metres, the facility features traditional rituals inspired by local practices and ingredients.
This boutique resort presents 99 guest rooms and villas, each boasting timeless local detailing, traditional artwork and accessories inspired by Arab culture. The accommodations are complemented by a range of restaurants and lounges, such as the traditional Al Mabeet, a Bedouin-style al fresco restaurant replete with Arabian elegance. Terra Secca is a refined Italian restaurant with a sweeping terrace, perfect for sunsets, while the Al Mesayan Roof Top Bar allows guests to experience the beauty of the natural surroundings from an elevated vantage point.
Ideal for families, visitors can take advantage of horseback riding, archery and off-road adventures, as well as the high-end fitness centre and infinity pool. For those who wish to experience a touch of traditional Emirati culture, there is the falcon show, which allows visitors to watch these majestic birds of prey in action.
Arabian Nights Village
As close to a traditional desert experience as one might hope to have, this charming desert retreat – roughly halfway between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain – offers a unique look at life as it once was on the Arabian Peninsula.
The resort was founded in 2012 and allows guests to stay in recreated Emirati houses in a village-like setting. Named after the Abu Dhabi neighbourhoods of Shahama, Baynouna, Remah, Hameem, and Razeen, each section of the village has been designed to resemble the past as closely as possible.
The Tower Suite - Al Manhal Suite is arguably the best of the lodging options. Set over 2,000 square feet, this royally-named suite boasts three presidential bedrooms, each with its own opulent bathroom, and lavish interiors.
The resort also showcases a variety of activities, such as quad buggy riding, sandboarding and camel trekking. Additionally, the complex hosts its own “Village Events” and functions as the ideal location for team building exercises, product launches, birthday parties, family days, weddings, bachelor parties and more. The ‘Al Maqam,’ or ‘gathering place,’ is an integral part of the experience – a vibrant Arabian setting where views of the desert dunes blend with the aroma of freshly prepared cuisine. The atmosphere is further enriched by live musicians, belly dancers, and henna artists.
Amid the wealth of exclusive opportunities in Abu Dhabi these days, discerning residents are increasingly seeking escapes beyond the city to experience something a little different; something a little more Emirati. The emirate’s desert resorts provide a rare glimpse into life before Abu Dhabi’s modern transformation, while offering first-class accommodations, exceptional amenities, gourmet dining, and authentic Emirati experiences. These refined retreats represent a key part of Abu Dhabi’s luxury landscape and are not to be missed.
