The Desert Beckons In Abu Dhabi
Featuring an array of sumptuous accommodation, picturesque desert views are standard as are lush Middle Eastern fabrics adorning every room, jewel-embedded silver and bronze chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and a private balcony or terrace from which to absorb awe-inspiring vistas.
Ride atop a camel over sun drenched dunes, laze in the freeform swimming pool as desert wildlife grazes in the shade below or be fascinated by glorious Arabian décor inspired by one of the world’s most ancient and revered cultures. This is Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, located in the legendary Liwa Desert, one of the largest uninterrupted sand deserts in the world. Embracing the epic adventures of this evocative landscape, Qasr Al Sarab provides a luxury oasis for discerning travelers.
The Empty Quarter or Rub’ al Khali as it’s known locally, Qasr Al Sarab is isolated from the outside world and personifies the mysticism of this unique location. Approximately two hours from Abu Dhabi City, mountain-high sand dunes in evocative orange hues stretch out as far as the eye can see.
Family Pool Villas feature two bedrooms and a private plunge pool surrounded by sun deck and shaded areas. Personalized butler service ensures you won’t have to lift a finger. Classically elegant, floor-to-ceiling wooden doors separate the space while modern conveniences are incorporated into the design and include a functioning kitchenette, spacious bathrooms with rain shower, a personalized pillow menu, media box and work station with WiFi if you must squeeze in a bit of the inevitable.
Located one-kilometer away from the main building of the resort, you’ll find the Royal Pavilion – promising absolute privacy for an executive meeting retreat, wedding venue, secluded dining event, or multi-generational family reunion. A desert sanctuary, the Royal Pavilion offers ten one-bedroom luxury pool villas, a proper dining room, traditional Majlis seating area, meeting room and scenic courtyard.
Named after a star that Bedouins of old used to navigate through the desert, Suhail restaurant serves the finest Middle Eastern cuisine along with a host of world favorites. This rooftop bar and restaurant offers a tranquil atmosphere with sweeping views. Bask in cozy armchairs on the roof terrace or retire indoors for air-conditioned comfort. Exclusive degustation dinners and wine tastings can be arranged utilizing the finest cuts of meat and freshest seafood from across the world. Authentic flavors of the Abu Dhabi desert include Makbous, Shawarma, Hareess and Biryani, all brought to life by selected theme nights at the to explore all-day dining haven of Al Waha, or the oasis, including local performance artists as well. Live cooking stations showcase Middle Eastern and international cuisine with a touch of traditional Emirati flair.
Anantara Spa reflects the verdant qualities of this desert oasis, symbolizing eternal life. Cleanse your soul with timeless ancient rituals of Ayurveda and other massage disciplines as experienced therapists use a range of therapeutic tonics blended from dates and other exotic ingredients. Designed around central Hammam healing baths, revered as a place for time-honored rituals for cleansing and revitalizing both body and soul for centuries, the spa is tucked into tranquil courtyards with trickling fountains and aromatic hanging gardens. The Arabian Exotic Wrap is specially designed to address dehydrated skin types and helps deflate jet lag to boot as a deeply moisturizing body wrap incorporating the region’s most prized remedial ingredient leaves mind and body nourished and radiant, fully prepared.