Plan a luxurious getaway at these Abu Dhabi desert resorts
- Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
- Al Wathba
- Arabian Nights Village
- Telal Resort
- Bab Al Nojoum Bateen Liwa
- FAQs
Finding the perfect Abu Dhabi desert resort is about stepping into a world where golden dunes meet luxury. Whether you are looking for a palatial fortress or a serene boutique escape near the city, Abu Dhabi’s desert landscape offers some of the most iconic retreats. As you plan your escape into the dunes, finding the right balance of adventure and relaxation is key. We’ve rounded up some of the best ones for you!
BEST DESERT RESORTS IN ABU DHABI
While much of the UAE has evolved into a futuristic urban landscape, it continues to preserve a rich share of its Bedouin heritage and sweeping desert scenery. In Abu Dhabi, majestic dunes stretch across the horizon, creating the perfect setting for travellers seeking authentic desert resorts or unforgettable safari adventures.
For those looking to experience the magic of the Arabian desert in comfort and style, here’s a curated selection of the finest desert resorts in Abu Dhabi.
QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is a flagship luxury desert resort located deep in the Empty Quarter. It blends Arabian heritage with hospitality and features deluxe rooms, suites and private villas, each with private butler service and panoramic desert views.
The resort features multiple restaurants, a spa with a Moroccan hammam, a large free-form swimming pool, tennis courts and a fitness centre. For adventure, guests can enjoy camel trekking, dune bashing, falconry and archery.
- Location: Liwa Desert
- Contact: +971-2-895-8700
AL WATHBA, A LUXURY COLLECTION DESERT RESORT & SPA
Designed to resemble a historic Bedouin village with mud-brick architecture and winding stone pathways, Al Wathba offers a boutique atmosphere. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including elegantly appointed superior and deluxe rooms, 1 and 2-bedroom suites and private villas with pools.
The resort is home to the expansive Saray Spa, which features a salt room and traditional hammam. Notable amenities include a surf simulator (Desert Waves), an infinity pool and dining venues, including the Bedouin-inspired tent setup at Al Mabeet and Al Mesayan Roof Top Bar. Activities focus on heritage, such as Arabian horse riding, archery and desert discovery walks.
- Location: Al Wathba South
- Contact: +971-2-204-4444
ARABIAN NIGHTS VILLAGE
Listed among the top desert resorts in Abu Dhabi, Arabian Nights Village is a unique themed desert retreat hidden among the dunes of the Al Khatim desert. Guests can stay in accommodations styled on traditional local dwellings, these include Bayt Al Shaaer, Bayt Al Bahar, Bayt Al Bar and Al Manhal Tower.
The resort features an outdoor pool and on-site restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. Guests can take part in activities such as camel treks, thrilling desert safaris, dune driving adventures, sandboarding sessions and fat biking across the dunes.
- Location: Arabian Nights Village Road, Al Khatim
- Contact: +971-2-207-8999
TELAL RESORT, AL AIN
Set within the Remah Desert, Talal Resort is a conservation-focused retreat where native wildlife such as gazelles and oryx are frequently seen near the hotel. It features a range of rooms and suites decorated in traditional Emirati styles, alongside the villas, some of which are designed as luxury tents with private plunge pools.
Amenities in one of the top desert resorts in Abu Dhabi include the Desertology Spa, a gym, an outdoor pool and a traditional “Zaman Lawal” heritage village with a souk. Furthermore, there are plentiful activities in Telal Resort, ranging from wildlife safaris and ziplining to sandboarding and falconry as well.
- Location: Remah, Al Ain
- Contact: +971-3-702-0000
BAB AL NOJOUM BATEEN LIWA
Bab Al Nojoum Bateen Liwa is the newest addition to the Liwa landscape. This one of the top desert resorts in Abu Dhabi offers villas mainly in 1, 2 and 3-bedroom layouts. Each villa features a private temperature-controlled plunge pool, deck/patio and fireplace.
Key amenities include the 28 Degrees restaurant, a communal fire pit for stargazing, an arcade/game room for kids and free bicycle rentals. It offers a minimalist take on desert living with activities focusing on hiking, archery and guided desert treks.
- Location: Tal Mur’ib Road, Mzeer’ah
- Contact: +971-2-894-8888
FAQS ABOUT ABU DHABI RESORTS
Where are most desert resorts in Abu Dhabi located?
Most desert resorts are located in the Liwa Desert region of Al Dhafrah and in the Al Wathba Desert.
Are Abu Dhabi desert resorts suitable for luxury stays?
Yes, many Abu Dhabi desert resorts are designed for luxury stays, offering five-star accommodations, spa facilities, fine dining and premium service in a secluded desert setting.
What activities can you enjoy at desert resorts in Abu Dhabi?
Guests can enjoy camel trekking, dune bashing, sandboarding, desert safaris, stargazing, spa treatments, cultural experiences and outdoor sports.
Are there family-friendly desert resorts in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, several desert resorts are family-friendly and offer kids’ activities, family villas and swimming pools for children.
Which desert resort in Abu Dhabi is best for couples or honeymoons?
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is often considered the best choice for couples because of its romantic setting and private pool villas.
What is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi desert resorts?
The best time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities.
Do Abu Dhabi desert resorts offer private pool villas?
Yes, several desert resorts offer private pool villas or plunge-pool options for guests seeking privacy and comfort.
That’s all we have for this list of Abu Dhabi desert resorts, but that’s certainly not the end of all the fun activities in the city. There are plenty of exciting things to do in Abu Dhabi for people of all ages.
If you love the luxury of 5 stars but the desert doesn’t interest you so much, try out the top beach resorts in Abu Dhabi. These uber-extravagant destinations will make sure you have the time of your life in the capital city. On the contrary, if you don’t mind the desert excursions but would like to have more options for where to enjoy, the desert resorts in Dubai should have you covered.
Featured Image Credit: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara (Official Website)
