Desert resort with Arabian decor, private pools, spa, and activities
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort - Bateen Liwa - Mahdar Sahab - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates Get directions
"Commissioned by the royal family and constructed in just 650 days, the kingdom-like fortress emerged from the Rub Al Khali desert in 2007 as a grand smorgasbord of Bedouin heritage and Emirati opulence. With 207 rooms, suites, and pool villas, Qasr Al Sarab becomes increasingly beautiful as the sun begins to set. Movie fans may recognize the vistas from Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and the cast of Dune stayed here while filming nearby. The drive from Abu Dhabi takes about two hours, the scenery en route is beautiful, and a trip to the resort’s plush spa is the perfect way to unwind on arrival." - Ann Marie McQueen, CNT Editors
"When a resort is commissioned by the royal family, service is fit for a king (or queen), and this kingdom-like fortress, constructed in just 650 days by order of the UAE’s rulers, rises from the Rub Al Khali desert as a grand smorgasbord of Bedouin heritage and Emirati opulence. Opened in 2007 with 207 rooms, suites, and pool villas, it becomes increasingly beautiful as the sun sets; movie fans may recognize the vistas from Star Wars: The Force Awakens, while the cast of the Oscar-winning dystopian sci-fi hit Dune stayed here while filming nearby. The drive from Abu Dhabi takes about two hours, but the scenery is beautiful, and a visit to the plush spa is the perfect way to unwind on arrival." - Emma Pearson
"A mirage-like resort that rises from the red dunes of the Rub’ Al Khali, blending sunlit palm-tree oases and soothing water features inspired by falaj irrigation systems with night-time lamplight and cooling desert breezes. Guest rooms draw on nomadic traditions with palm-thatch ceilings and textiles inspired by regional patterns; family pool villas feel like private forts. Activities range from camel and horse rides to fat-bike desert excursions, while spa treatments incorporate regional ingredients such as Arabian dates and coffee—and the simplest pleasure is climbing a nearby dune to watch the sunset." - Jennifer Flowers
"What was your first impression of the hotel when you arrived? A secluded oasis in the desert, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is magical—you're surrounded by dunes as far as the eye can see. Reminiscent of a traditional Bedouin village, the resort sits among the incredible rolling red and orange dunes of Rub Al Khali, the world's largest uninterrupted sand desert. Although it's about 75 miles from Abu Dhabi Airport, this property is worth the trip. The lantern-lined approach into the valet parking bay sets the scene for the enchantment to come, which continues in the stunning lobby and pervades every inch of the public spaces and guest rooms. Tell us all about the rooms. Accommodations (140 rooms, 14 suites, and 52 pool villas) are spacious, with gardens, balconies, or terraces; suites are larger; and villas have private pools. Decor throughout features subtle earth tones and contemporary Islamic-inspired furnishings. Bathrooms are elaborate and impressive, with dual vanities and luxurious oversized soaking tubs. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention? The complimentary fruit platter on arrival was a nice touch, as was the novel soap menu. Also worth mentioning since you're so far out in the desert: Wi-Fi is free and fast, no matter where you're standing on the 190,000-acre resort. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? At Al Falaj, a Bedouin-style desert camp, you can enjoy an enchanting dinner under the stars—a restaurant experience you likely won't find duplicated elsewhere. Suhail, the rooftop restaurant, specializes in international fare; Ghadeer is a casual poolside option that's great for sundowners. Breakfast, served at Al Waha, is an expansive offering with eggs, noodles, Arabic specialties, cold cuts and cheeses, pastries, breads, fresh fruits and juices, and more. And the service? Did anyone stand out We participated in the Falcon and Saluki (a desert dog) experience and our guide was extremely friendly and engaging. He also remained calm and considered when our four-wheeler became bogged in the dunes on the way back to the resort. What type of travelers will you find here? Nature lovers enamored with the vast desert landscape, couples, solo travelers, and families with young children. Any other hotel features worth noting? The outdoor pool, surrounded by palm trees, is a welcome place to cool off in the middle of the desert. There's a shaded kids' pool too as well as a kids' club. The Anantara Spa is worth checking out; the menu is extensive and the setting is beautiful, with massage beds with views of dunes. And finally, no visit would be complex without immersing yourself in a desert experience, from guided night walks to falcon shows. Bottom line: Worth it? This is one of the most incredible resorts in the world, with landscape, luxury, and culture all in the one location." - Melinda Healy
"Emerging like a mirage from the red dunes of the Rub' Al Khali Empty Quarter, this desert resort offers dramatic seclusion at the end of a long desert drive, with sunshine, palm-shaded water features inspired by ancient falaj irrigation and tranquil nights of cooling breezes and lamplight. The 205 rooms draw on nomadic traditions with palm-thatch ceilings and textiles-inspired cushions and carpets; family pool villas resemble miniature forts. Activities include camel and horse rides, fat-biking across dunes and spa treatments using Arabian dates and coffee, and guests are encouraged to climb nearby dunes to watch unforgettable sunsets." - Nicola Chilton