Glamping in the desert

by Ingrid Berg, Hotel Researcher
Have you ever thought of having Arabian Nights fairytale in real life, but with a pinch of Luxus? Let's look at a few of our favorite luxury resorts in the desert!
Telal Resort Al Ain is a great place to experience Emirati culture and traditions while enjoying luxurious rustic-chic accommodations. From deluxe rooms to private villas with pools and jacuzzis, there is something for everyone at this stunning resort. Traditional Emirati artwork and arabesque details can be found throughout the resort, and guests can enjoy various activities, from ATV drives and zip lining to desert safaris.
 

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, located an hour out of Dubai, is a desert oasis home to individual villas complete with private pools, the main resort area with an all-day dining restaurant, and a relaxing spa. Guests can vibe at the resort's private pool or the picturesque outdoor pool overlooking the desert dunes.
 

Al Wathba, an Arabian-style desert resort, sprawls over 22,000 square meters of the tranquil desert. The hotel is a 45-minute drive from the Abu Dhabi CBD. Despite being tricky to find, nearby attractions include horse and camel race tracks. Al Wathba Wetlands, home to thousands of flamingos and 260 other species of birds, is just over half an hour's drive away.

 

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, Al Wadi Desert is a desert resort set among the beauty of a 1,235-acre protected reserve. It has Bedouin-styled villas with private pools and private pool decks, lounge areas, and breathtaking desert views. The resort has five dining venues: the newly opened Sonara Camp, farm-to-table Farmhouse, all-day dining at Kaheela, the open-sky Moon Bar, and the Moorish lounge.
 

Mysk Al Badayer Retreat is a glamping spot offering adventure and serenity in Sharjah. The resort is located inside a traditional Arabian fort. Still, with all the modern comforts you need, and offers customized desert experiences such as falconry, dune bashing, quad biking, horse riding, and desert safaris. 


Situated in the Mleiha desert, the Mysk Al Faya Retreat makes travelers explore the Bedouin culture and the famed archaeological site the area is known for. The retreat, converted from its 1960s state to a luxurious destination offers five guest rooms, a hands-free spa, a salt pool, and a tropical shower walk, among other amenities. Those looking to explore can embark on a journey of well-being at the spa or laze away the day by the pool before recounting their adventures around the fire pit at night.