Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
A luxurious oasis in the vast Empty Quarter, offering unparalleled desert experiences and Arabian hospitality.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures for activities
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
Best Time
Cooler temperatures for activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A luxurious oasis in the vast Empty Quarter, offering unparalleled desert experiences and Arabian hospitality.
"This is not just a hotel. This is an experience that stays with your soul."
Book Activities in Advance
Popular desert excursions like dune bashing and camel rides fill up fast. Book ahead to avoid disappointment!
Embrace the Silence
The resort's remote location offers profound tranquility. Take time to disconnect and soak in the desert's peace.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Over the Dunes
Desert Landscape
Witness the breathtaking spectacle of the sun dipping below the endless red dunes, painting the sky in fiery hues.
Camel Trekking Adventure
Surrounding Desert
Embark on a traditional camel ride through the iconic Liwa Oasis dunes, a quintessential desert experience.
Stargazing Under the Arabian Sky
Desert Night Sky
Experience the magic of a clear desert night, with countless stars illuminating the vast, silent expanse.
Architectural Oasis
Resort Grounds
Marvel at the resort's stunning architecture, designed to blend seamlessly with the desert landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Desert's Majesty
Luxury in the Empty Quarter
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Activities in Advance
Popular desert excursions like dune bashing and camel rides fill up fast. Book ahead to avoid disappointment!
Embrace the Silence
The resort's remote location offers profound tranquility. Take time to disconnect and soak in the desert's peace.
Pack for the Desert
Light, breathable clothing for the day, and warmer layers for cooler desert nights are essential.
Request a Specific Guide
For desert drives, guides like Shehzad are highly recommended for their knowledge and storytelling.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Activities in Advance
Popular desert excursions like dune bashing and camel rides fill up fast. Book ahead to avoid disappointment!
Embrace the Silence
The resort's remote location offers profound tranquility. Take time to disconnect and soak in the desert's peace.
Pack for the Desert
Light, breathable clothing for the day, and warmer layers for cooler desert nights are essential.
Request a Specific Guide
For desert drives, guides like Shehzad are highly recommended for their knowledge and storytelling.
Capture the Sunrise
Wake up early for a chance to witness the stunning desert sunrise over the dunes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests rave about Qasr Al Sarab, calling it a 'dream come true' and an 'unforgettable anniversary' destination. The resort's stunning desert setting, exceptional service from dedicated staff, and magical activities like stargazing and dune bashing are consistently praised. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, a few guests have noted issues with communication responsiveness regarding complaints.
"We celebrated our anniversary at this stunning desert resort and had the most memorable experience. The team went above and beyond — they even surprised us with a beautiful sand art display outside our villa wishing us well. It was such a thoughtful touch that made our stay extra special.
From Farhan at the front desk to Kiki at breakfast, every interaction was wonderful. Their warmth, professionalism, and genuine care made us feel so welcomed. The service is truly top-notch, and you can see how much they care for their guests.
The activities were equally magical — from the open-sky cinema under the stars to walking through the serene sand dunes, everything was mesmerizing and unforgettable.
Highly recommend this resort for anyone looking for a peaceful, luxurious, and heartfelt getaway. We can’t wait to return!"
Samreen Iqbal
"A Magical Anniversary at Qasr Al Sarab !
A Stay That Touched Our Hearts Forever
From the moment we arrived at Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara, we knew this anniversary trip would be unforgettable — but the reality was beyond anything we imagined.
The resort rises from the desert like a dream. The silence, the gold dunes, the warm smiles… everything felt like a cinematic moment.
This is not just a hotel. This is an experience that stays with your soul.
We were celebrating our anniversary, and the Anantara team made us feel like royalty.
The room was beautifully decorated, the private terrace had the most breathtaking views, and the attention to detail was on another level. They surprised us with heartfelt touches that genuinely moved us, something you can’t buy or request. It comes from true hospitality.
The sunset over the desert? Unreal.
The dinner under the stars? A memory we will tell our kids about.
The service? Perfection, warm, discreet, and deeply caring.
Every staff member we met made us feel welcomed, celebrated, and valued.
It felt like they were proud we chose Qasr Al Sarab for our special occasion, and they made sure every second was magical.
We left with full hearts, incredible photos, and a promise to come back.
Qasr Al Sarab is not just the best desert resort in the UAE, it’s a place where you reconnect with yourself, your partner, and the beauty of the world.
Thank you, Anantara team, for giving us the most unforgettable anniversary of our lives.
You created a memory that will stay with us forever.
If you’re reading this:
Don’t hesitate, book it.
This is the definition of timeless luxury.
Names of the staff who touched our hearts and made our stay amazing:
-Warda from Al ghadir restaurant
-Nisheet who welcomed us and took care of us
-James the buggy driver
-F&B manager of alghadir and alwaha restaurant
-Amanie restaurant staff were amazing and accommodating as well"
Khaoula Yoga
"Quarter Al Sarab is an oasis of tranquility set in the serenity of the desert. A Magical experience. My lasting impression is of the genuine warmth, welcome and caring given by Michele and his wonderful staff.
A place to soothe the soul.
There is yoga and sound healing, healing massage, with world class practitioners , star gazing , horse or camel riding, archery, paddle, tennis, laser clay shooting, archery polaris and more.
Excellent cuisine and accommodation.
Imagine an infinity pool at sunset with the desert behind.There is nowhere on earth quite like it. I highly recommend it. Winter months ."
Mary Conlon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is located in the Empty Quarter, about a 2-hour drive from Abu Dhabi city. You can rent a car or arrange for a private transfer. Many guests opt for the resort's shuttle service for convenience.
The drive is generally straightforward, primarily on well-maintained highways. However, the final stretch into the desert can be sandy, so it's advisable to have a suitable vehicle or rely on the resort's transport.
The resort is approximately a 3-hour drive from Dubai, making it a feasible, albeit longer, day trip or weekend getaway from the emirate.
Public transport directly to the resort is limited due to its remote location. Arranging a private transfer or utilizing the resort's shuttle service are the most practical options.
From Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. You can hire a taxi, book a private car service, or check if the resort offers airport transfers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Qasr Al Sarab is a resort, so you book accommodation rather than entry tickets. Day passes might be available for specific experiences, but booking a stay is the primary way to access the resort and its amenities.
As a resort, Qasr Al Sarab is open 24/7 for guests. However, specific activities and dining venues within the resort will have their own operating hours. It's best to check the resort's schedule upon arrival.
While primarily a resort, some guests inquire about day passes. It's recommended to contact the resort directly to see if day access or specific experiences are offered for non-guests.
It's always a good idea to check the Anantara Hotels website or booking platforms for any ongoing promotions, package deals, or seasonal offers for Qasr Al Sarab.
You can book directly through the Anantara Hotels website, or via reputable online travel agencies. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include camel trekking, dune bashing, archery, stargazing, desert walks, yoga, spa treatments, and enjoying the infinity pool with stunning desert views.
Yes, Qasr Al Sarab offers a unique experience for families, with activities that can be enjoyed by all ages, from camel rides to exploring the desert landscape.
As a luxury resort, Qasr Al Sarab typically offers reliable Wi-Fi throughout the property, allowing guests to stay connected if they choose.
Absolutely! The resort offers various desert safaris, including dune bashing and guided desert walks, providing an immersive experience in the Empty Quarter.
The resort offers a range of luxurious rooms, suites, and private villas, many with stunning desert views and private terraces.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Qasr Al Sarab features several dining venues, offering a range of cuisines from local Emirati dishes to international flavors, often with spectacular desert views. +1
Breakfast is typically included in most room rates at Qasr Al Sarab, offering a delightful start to your day with beautiful desert vistas.
Yes, the resort's restaurants are generally accommodating and offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to inform your server of any dietary needs.
The resort excels at creating romantic experiences, including private dining under the stars or on your villa terrace, perfect for special occasions.
Reviews consistently praise the high quality and deliciousness of the food, with many guests highlighting memorable dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
The resort's architecture, the vast red dunes, the infinity pool at sunset, and the camel trekking trails offer incredible photo opportunities. +1
Yes, the desert sky at night is perfect for astrophotography, with minimal light pollution offering stunning views of the stars and constellations.
While not always explicitly advertised as tours, the resort can often arrange guided desert excursions that are ideal for photography, with knowledgeable guides.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful light for capturing the desert landscape and resort.
Drone usage is typically restricted in many sensitive natural areas and resorts. It's essential to check with the resort management regarding their specific drone policy before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking family-friendly activities that cater to younger guests, and inquire about any specific children's programs or amenities. The resort's serene environment also provides a wonderful opportunity for families to disconnect and spend quality time together, creating lasting memories in an extraordinary setting.
💍 Couples & Honeymooners
The resort's luxurious villas and suites offer intimate settings with breathtaking views. Many guests report receiving thoughtful surprises from the staff, making their romantic escape even more magical and memorable.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Short Stays
If you're on a tight schedule, consider a half-day excursion focused on a key activity like a desert drive or a relaxing afternoon by the pool. However, be aware that the full immersive experience is best savored over at least one night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Empty Quarter
The sheer scale of the dunes is awe-inspiring, providing a dramatic backdrop for every experience. Visitors often describe the silence and the vastness as profound, a stark contrast to the hustle of city life. This unique setting has even attracted filmmakers, with its otherworldly beauty resembling scenes from movies like Dune and Star Wars.
Staying here means immersing yourself in the raw beauty of the desert. Whether it's watching the sunrise paint the dunes gold or the sunset casting long shadows, the natural environment is the star of the show. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience a truly unique corner of the UAE.
Unforgettable Desert Activities
Beyond the more adventurous options, Qasr Al Sarab also provides opportunities for cultural immersion and relaxation. Stargazing sessions reveal the wonders of the desert night sky, far from city lights. Guided nature walks allow you to learn about the desert's unique flora and fauna. For those seeking tranquility, the resort offers yoga and wellness programs, as well as a luxurious spa.
Many guests highlight the open-sky cinema as a magical experience, combining the romance of the desert night with entertainment. The resort also offers activities like archery and laser clay shooting, ensuring there's something for every interest. Booking these activities in advance is highly recommended, especially during busier periods, to ensure availability.
Exceptional Service and Hospitality
This dedication to hospitality is evident in the thoughtful touches that guests receive. From surprise sand art displays wishing them well to personalized greetings, the team goes above and beyond to make special occasions memorable. This commitment to creating heartfelt experiences is a hallmark of the Anantara brand and a significant reason for the resort's high praise.
Whether it's the front desk team ensuring a smooth arrival, restaurant staff providing attentive service, or buggy drivers offering friendly rides, every interaction contributes to the overall luxurious and welcoming atmosphere. This consistent quality of service is a key differentiator and a major draw for those seeking a truly pampered desert escape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit