While much (oh, so much!) is written about the bustle of the UAE’s major cities, the call of the desert is one that is constantly apparent to their inhabitants. Sure, Dubai has it’s skyscrapers and Abu Dhabi has its mangroves, but it’s the unmatched calm of the vast sand dunes remains the country’s greatest natural offering.
It doesn’t take a genius to work out that, due to the summer-time temperatures, the great outdoors is not something to be messing about in. There’s a reason why deserts tend to be desolate places, afteral. But all that doesn’t mean that you should avoid it at all costs, in fact, we are suggesting the exact opposite.
With occupancy (and cost) down over the hotter months, there is, quite literally, no better time to visit the country’s premier luxury desert resort, Qasr Al Sarab. Because let’s face it, if you’re going out into the maddening desert heat, you’re going to want some serious pampering at the end of your trip.
Built like a fortified Arabian citadel, the hotel is located 220km south of Abu Dhabi, deep in the Rub’tl Khali sand desert. Until September 30, the palatial property is offering a special Summer Villa discount for those intrepid enough to make the multi-hour drive into the Empty Quarter.
The summer deal sees the five-star property offering significant discounts, with its One-Bedroom Anantara Pool Villas (picture above) going for Dhs1,999. The deal includes breakfast for two, and your own private plunge pool. Natch.
Operated by the Anantara hotel group, a stay at Qasr Al Sarab is about as far from living like a bedouin as you can get. The property has a full spa, runs desert-based activities including camel rides, and even offers its signture private Dining by Design packages so you can make the most of your desert adventure.
To book visit Qasr Al Sarab