Interest in travelling to the Middle East is on the rise. With buzzwords like “noctourism” and “calmcations” shaping itineraries in 2025, a jaunt around remote desert landscapes to switch off from the repeated demands of daily life and appreciate the wonders of the universe from sunrise to sunset has never looked more inviting. Looking to experience the magic of Arabian nights? Head to these hotels and resorts in the UAE for the ultimate desert escape.
The Ritz-Carlton, Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert
For an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the stark landscapes and roaming wildlife of the 1,235-acre Al Wadi Nature Reserve, head to the Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, where adventure, luxury, and cultural experiences blend in equal measure.
Go for one of the tented villa options set in the natural desert landscape to enjoy your own private stretch of rolling sand dunes and the chance to soak up the stillness of the desert and see a diverse array of animals, including Arabian oryxes and gazelles, that live on the land. With an on-site equestrian centre, camel stable, falconry deck, and archery range, there is plenty to do on the property, but guests can also journey into the desert for more adventures.
One of the highlights at the Spa is the Rainforest, an expansive, multi-station hydrothermal facility that offers aromatherapy steam rooms, saunas, hydrotherapy pools, hot and cold foot baths and plunge pools, experience showers, a brine cavern, and even an ice igloo, designed to promote improved circulation, detoxification, purification, and cleansing. Follow it up with a rejuvenating massage with warm volcanic desert stones for the ultimate pampering session.
Syrco Bakker, the Michelin-starred chef extraordinaire behind the highly lauded Syrco Basé in Bali, curates the farm-to-table Farmhouse, combining international and Arabian ingredients and flavours, while all-day-dining restaurant Kaheela specialises in regional cuisines.
Book now: ritzcarlton.com
Al Maha, Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa
Located in the heart of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa is a serene oasis escape spread out across sloping sand dunes and verdant palm groves. Its 42 distinctive villas, featuring Bedouin and Arabian design inspirations and private pools, are lavishly decorated and range from one- to three-bedroom configurations, perfect for guests travelling in larger groups, families, as well as honeymooners.
Al Maha looks out towards expansive plains and the Hajar mountain range, and this secluded setting is also the stage on which the resort’s exciting programme of activities unfolds. Whether it’s off-roading across the desert, going on wildlife drives and learning about local ecosystems, trekking on horseback or on camels, or practising archery, Al Maha offers a wealth of things to do that fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of traditional Emirati practices.
Book now: marriott.com
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Escape the hustle and bustle of Abu Dhabi and head to the Empty Quarter—also known as Rub’ al Khali—for an immersive getaway in a formidable desert fortress. Qsar Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, set within the Liwa oasis, is fit for royalty. From spacious rooms and tasteful suites to opulent villas with private terraces and pools, guests will be living it large in these low-rise structures, which blend seamlessly into the surrounding sand dunes. (If you’re a fan of science-fiction movies, you might recognise the setting; Star Wars: The Force Awakens was filmed in these parts. Not to mention, some scenes from Dune were shot nearby, too.)
As the Qsar Al Sarab Desert Resort is a 90-minute drive from Abu Dhabi, the property ensures that guests are well catered for without needing to leave the grounds. Rooftop grill Suhail, poolside bar Ghadeer, international restaurant Al Waha, and alfresco camp dining experience Al Falaj are just a few of the culinary options available for you to choose from. Stargazing opportunities, dune-bashing excursions, falcon shows, and camel treks are all on the cards. Relax at the Anantara Spa after a thrilling day out—might we suggest a desert ice bath therapy?
Book now: anantara.com
Bab Al Shams
Bab Al Shams, a Rare Finds Desert Resort, eschews overt Middle Eastern opulence for a sleek and contemporary atmosphere that marries minimalist design with Moorish architectural influences. Located just outside of Dubai, near the Al Maktoum International Airport, this luxurious sanctuary comprises 115 earth-tone rooms, suites, pool villas, and family-focused accommodations surrounded by sand dunes and swaying desert palms. From walk-in showers and separate living and dining areas to dressing rooms, deep soaking tubs, and outdoor firepits—depending on the room category—Bab Al Shams is as swish as they come.
Four restaurants—Al Hadheerah, Anwa, Zala, and Ninive—and a further three lounges and bars—the Lobby Lounge, Ya Hala, and the Pool Bar—serve up Middle Eastern, pan-Asian, Mediterranean, and North African cuisines, as well as wines, spirits, cocktails, and mocktails. Go for a guided desert walk, horseback and camelback rides, or a hot-air balloon adventure over the Margham desert, or find your bliss at the spa and hammam with soothing treatments.
Book now: babalshams.com
Nest by Sonara
If you’re up for a glamping adventure, the Nest by Sonara in the Dubai Desert should be on your radar. Acclaimed architect Gianni Ranaulo came up with the blueprint for the accommodations, mimicking the sloping pattern of sand dunes to emphasise minimal environmental impact and full immersion. Comprising just 14 tents, the property is intimate and exclusive, and the muted interiors take inspiration from the soft colour palette of the desert. Each “nest” comes with an en-suite bathroom and a private terrace, and can sleep up to two adults.
Dining is most certainly a highlight of the stay. At the Nest Lounge, guests can opt for sunset canapes or tapas for dinner. Gourmet meals, with menus refreshed seasonally, can be enjoyed at the nearby Sonara Camp, a solar-powered communal venue that’s lit up like a beacon in the desert. After your meal, join a guided Sky Safari to observe stars and planets through the lens of a telescope and strengthen your understanding of the history and importance of astronomy.
Book now: nara.ae
Moon Retreat by Sharjah Collection
For a completely different under-the-stars experience, check out the Moon Retreat. Part of the Sharjah Collection, this unique glamping site in the Mleiha desert in the Sharjah emirate features 10 bubble domes and six spacious tented accommodations with terraces and gas-fired barbecues. Most rooms come with temperature-controlled private pools, as well as telescopes for nighttime stargazing. With a focus on providing deep immersion and tranquillity, guests can disengage from the modern world and reconnect with the environment, at least for a few days.
Book now: sharjahcollection.ae
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