Abu Dhabi’s desert is one of the most picturesque sights imaginable. We’re talking rolling dunes, shifting sands and sunsets like you’ never seen before.
Want to enjoy an overnight stay in the desert and see the stars shine overhead? Here are some of the best desert resorts and glamping sites to try in Abu Dhabi.
Arabian Nights Village
It’s glamping but with a traditional twist, taking in aspects of Bedouin heritage and modern comforts. Visit Arabian Nights Village and you can spend the night stargazing whilst soaking up the traditional Arabic atmosphere and scenic views of the desert dunes. Plus, if camping doesn’t float your boat you’ll be pleased to hear that you can book a stay in the luxury Bedouin tents with modern amenities such as air conditioning and washrooms. You’ll also find a small souk, a huge swimming pool with sun loungers, an al fresco dining area and a restaurant with tables and comfy sofas outside, too.
Prices vary. Arabian Nights Village Road, Abu Dhabi, arabiannightsvillage.com.
Jebel Hafeet Desert Park
Al Ain is home to one of the UAE’s newest glamping sites, found at the foot of Jebel Hafeet. Called Jebel Hafit Desert Park, it occupies a nine-kilometre stretch at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, so guests can bed down surrounded by fascinating archaeological and historical remains that include remnants of the Neolithic period 8,000 years ago and excavated 5,000-year-old tombs. Campers can either pitch their own tent, book serviced camping in one of nine Bedouin-style tents, or go luxe and stay in one of the bubble or dome tents. Regardless of which accommodation option guests choose to check-in too, they’ll be able to embrace the historic surroundings of the UAE’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site with hiking, biking, horse riding and guided buggy tours all available.
Tents from AED 500. Al Ain, jebelhafitdesertpark.ae (03 711 8362).
Telal Resort, Al Ain
Situated in the outskirts of Al Ain, this five-star resort in Remah Desert is decked in traditional Arabian designs. You’ll even find desert gazelles roaming around the place as well as beautiful backdrops of the desert that was once home to the nomadic Bedouin tribes of the Emirates. In terms of accommodation, the resort has everything from deluxe double bedrooms to three bedroom palatial villas.
Prices vary. Telal Resort Al Ain, Al Ain, www.telalresort.ae (03 702 0000).
Tilal Liwa Hotel
This hotel is located on the edge of the Rub Al Khali (also known as The Empty Quarter) which is the largest uninterrupted sand desert in the world. It adheres to traditional Arabian design and interiors and boasts 111 rooms and suites as well as having a host of desert activities on offer. We’re talking camel riding, quad biking, sand boarding and dune bashing as well as cosy bonfire nights under the stars.
Prices vary. Tilal Liwa Hotel, Madinat Zayed, Zayed City, Abu Dhabi www.danathotels.com/zayedcity/tilalliwahotel (02 894 6111).
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
This stunning resort is arguably the nicest hotel in the emirate and even the UAE. Pay a visit and you’ll quickly be able to see why it was voted the Most Instagrammable Hotel in the world in 2019. Settled in between sweeping dunes you can trek up the sand for amazing pictures and stunning sunsets and enjoy a range of activities including dune bashing, camel trekking and sand boarding. If that’s not your vibe you can chill by the pool, or your private pool if you book a villa and make use of the in-house spa that offers a range of treatments. There are also glamping experiences available for those feeling a little more adventurous.
Prices vary. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, The Empty Quarter, www.anantara.com/en/qasr-al-sarab-abu-dhabi.
