Luxury on the Edge of the Empty Quarter: 3 Days in the Desert at Qasr Al Sarab in Abu Dhabi

Towards the Empty Quarter

This hotel stay was part of a six day visit to Abu Dhabi in early February. The adventure begins long before you arrive. Located deep within the Liwa Desert in the Abu Dhabi emirate—a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from the city—the journey itself is part of the experience. The sprawling suburbs gradually give way to vast, rolling dunes of fiery red sand, building a sense of anticipation and isolation.

Looking back towards our room

Rising like a mirage from the sands is the resort’s namesake “Qasr Al Sarab" (Arabic for “Mirage Palace”). The architecture is stunning: a grand, fortified Arabian castle that looks utterly timeless against the desert backdrop. You are immediately transported. The check-in process is seamless, often accompanied by a refreshing welcome drink and a cold towel, a small but vital comfort after the desert heat.

The accommodation: your desert sanctuary

We stayed in a Deluxe Terrace Room, and it was exceptional. The design is a perfect blend of traditional Arabian elegance and modern comfort. Dark wood, rich textiles, and Middle Eastern artifacts create a regal atmosphere. The highlight was the private terrace, which offered uninterrupted, panoramic views of the endless dunes—the perfect spot for morning coffee or evening stargazing, which is spectacularly clear here.

View of the pool area from our room

For the ultimate experience, consider splurging on a Villa with a private pool. Having your own plunge pool looking out over the Empty Quarter is an indulgence you won’t forget.

Dining: culinary oasis

Morning footprints in the dunes

The resort offers several dining venues, each with a unique vibe:

• Suhail: The magnificent main restaurant where we enjoyed the extensive breakfast and dinner buffets. The quality and variety are impressive, featuring international dishes alongside local Middle Eastern specialties.

• Al Falaj: The poolside restaurant is perfect for a relaxed lunch. Their salads, burgers, and Arabic mezze are excellent.

• Ghadeer: The authentic Lebanese restaurant by the main pool offers a more intimate dinner setting with incredible flavors.

• Al Waha: A great family-friendly option with a dedicated kids’ club nearby.

Be prepared: Due to the remote location, dining here is premium, and it’s wise to book a half or full-board package.

Massive breakfast buffet at Suhail

Experiences & activities: the heart of the stay

This is where Qasr Al-Sarab truly shines. You don’t just come here to lie by the pool (though the pools are beautiful). You come for the desert.

Relaxing poolside

• Dune bashing & desert safari: An absolute must-do. Skilled drivers take you on a thrilling ride over the colossal dunes in a 4x4, culminating in a sunset stop atop a high dune with refreshments. It’s exhilarating and profoundly beautiful.

• Camel trekking: A more serene way to experience the landscape. Trekking at sunrise or sunset is magical.

• Fat bike cycling & sandboarding: For the more adventurous, cycling down the dunes or sandboarding is a huge amount of fun.

• Falconry display: A fascinating cultural experience where you can learn about and see these majestic birds up close.

• The spa: After a day of adventure, the Anantara Spa is a sanctuary of calm. Treatments incorporate traditional techniques—the Hammam experience is highly recommended.

Arch on the edge of the Empty Quarter

Searing sunset over the sand

Things to consider:

• Remote location: This is a feature, not a bug, but it means you won’t be popping out for a coffee or to see other sights. This is your time to be exclusive and reclusive.

• Cost: This is a premium, luxury resort. Everything, from rooms to food to activities, carries a premium price tag, but is well worth the investment.

• Weather: Avoid the peak summer months (June–August) as desert temperatures are extreme. The ideal time to visit is between October and April.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Abu Dhabi page.