Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort By Anantara
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Set amidst the vast dunes of the Rub' al Khali, or Empty Quarter, this resort rises like a mirage among flame-colored sands, showcasing Arabian heritage alongside modern luxury. A 90-minute drive from Abu Dhabi transports guests to a desert retreat where intricate architecture meets opulent interiors adorned with textiles and traditional motifs.
Adventurous travelers who desire authentic desert experiences without sacrificing comfort will find this destination unforgettable.
Rooms and suites
The resort offers 140 elegantly appointed rooms, 14 suites and 53 pool villas designed to immerse guests in desert luxury. Deluxe Balcony Rooms (48 sqm) feature private balconies with uninterrupted desert vistas, ideal for couples on a romantic getaway. Deluxe Garden Rooms (45 sqm) offer garden terraces, while Deluxe Terrace Rooms (50 sqm) on upper-floor corners provide expansive sun terraces — perfect for sunset views over the dunes.
For those desiring extra space, the Anantara Suites (106 sqm) provide generous living areas and outdoor terraces with dining spaces and sunken tubs. Families or groups will appreciate the one- to four-bedroom pool villas, each featuring a private plunge pool, sundeck and dedicated Villa Host services. The Royal Pavilion Pool Villas, secluded from the main resort, offer an exclusive retreat for an intimate desert escape.
Amenities and experiences
Multiple venues offering diverse cuisines — Suhail (rooftop grill with international dishes and panoramic desert views), Ghadeer (poolside dining with global flavors), Al Waha (Middle Eastern and international breakfast options), Al Liwan (lobby lounge for light bites), Al Falaj (traditional Middle Eastern cuisine under the stars), Amanie (Mediterranean dining) and Naseem Pool Bar.
Private options like Designer Dining under desert skies, cooking classes and Desert Barbecue setups.
Anantara Spa featuring a Moroccan hammam, treatment rooms, Jacuzzis, steam rooms, sauna and signature treatments.
Activities like camel treks, Polaris dune rides, guided desert walks, dune bashing, archery, fat biking, e-biking, horse riding, falconry demonstrations, Saluki hunting displays and Bedouin heritage nights at Camp Nujum.
Adults-only infinity pool overlooking the sweeping desert.
Activities and splash pool area for children aged 4 to 11.
How to get here
Situated amidst the vast expanse of the Rub' al Khali desert, the resort is approximately a 90-minute drive from Abu Dhabi and about three and a half hours from Dubai. Private transfers, including limousine services, can be arranged. Alternatively, guests may opt for a 50-minute helicopter flight from Abu Dhabi to the resort's helipad.
